Inspiration: Nip Tuck there is this awesome one liner that I couldn't resist using, it starts off with "Death is the…" I won't finish it, you'll know when you get there lol; and The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess.
Special Shout Out: This chapter is dedicated to my sister Taz and my little nephew Lex, who I consider the eighth wonder of the world.
Author Note: Reedited 4/9/2012; ADDENDUM Reedited 1/14/2013 this chapter was reedited to include Saria's POV.
Chapter 8
Kakariko Village, Several Hours Later: Saria's POV
I loaded up the last of my sewing implements and closed over the lattice of the wagon. I rubbed my hands together and turned around to face gramps. He had a forlorn expression on his face. I tried to smile to get one out of him, but it didn't seem to work.
He's been so wonderful to me, I thought, I'll never forget his kindness.
"Don't look so down gramps," I said, "I'll come back to visit, I promise."
He shook his head and sighed.
"By all rights and purposes you shouldn't be leaving," he stated, "this whole thing became a huge mess."
I had no counter to his words.
It did become a mess, didn't it? I thought.
I shrugged, trying to see the good in it.
"It can't be helped now," I replied, "what will be, will be."
Gramps grunted in disapproval at my words.
"Young people," he said, shaking his head. "I feel a certain measure of responsibility in this," he divulged, "I should have done a better job at warning you about seeing that knight."
I looked away when he mentioned Link. After what was said earlier, I was sure we were never going to see each other again. I hated the thought of that, but if Link thought I was such a horrible person, I saw no point in maintaining a friendship with him. Even still, I wasn't going to lie to myself and pretend that I didn't care about him as a person. I felt an innate closeness to him that I didn't initially understand. However, after yesterday, and the initiation of certain things, I was seeing things much clearer… much, much clearer, but, Link had a right to do what he felt was necessary. If guarding himself from me was necessary, then so be it.
It is what it is, I thought, I hope he's happy with his princess. They deserve each other.
"It doesn't matter now," I said finally, "he has his life, let him live it, until the end."
Gramps heard the slight bitterness in my voice, and stared at my face for a moment.
"You were really starting to care for him, weren't you?" he asked me.
I felt my throat tighten when gramps asked me that. I didn't know how to answer that question. It was a complicated matter. I knew Link was engaged, but I couldn't deny that I had feelings for him, albeit friendly or something deeper. I really considered him a close friend. In any such case, I knew I crossed the line with some of my behavior the other night, but I never thought he saw me as a man leech. I knew much of what he said was because of anger, but I felt that kind of attack on my character was unwarranted. Link didn't know me to characterize me as such. It was a disrespectful and unfair assessment. I believe if he knew how wrong he was about me in that regard, he would have felt bad. However, it didn't matter, it was over, and internally I forgave him for what he said, but as for having a deeper, more personal connection with him, I think that was just siphoned off.
Just let it go and move on Saria, I told myself.
"I was," I replied finally, "but I'll get over it."
Gramps took in a deep breath and put his hands on his hips. He knew I was putting on airs, but he didn't bother to correct me on it. He figured enough damage and lecturing had been done. Even still, he did what he did best, and that was try to he reassure me that I was as good and decent as anyone else.
"I spoke to him before he took you off yesterday," he divulged.
I grinned.
"I know," I said, "I saw."
The elderly gentleman fixed his glasses.
"I told him that you weren't some play thing," he stated, "I told him you were a lady and needed to be treated with respect."
I smiled when he said that.
He's always looking out for me, I thought.
"Thanks gramps," I said, "he told me you told him to be nice to me."
Gramps grunted.
"You're darn right!" he said. "And he better have been too!"
I chuckled at his reaction.
You'd be surprised gramps, I thought, he was a perfect gentleman. I was the one who came onto him.
"He was," I said, and then looked away, "we just had a misunderstanding, that's why we fought this morning."
The elderly gentleman didn't like that I was defending what Link said about me, however, he didn't have a complete grasp on the whole situation.
"I don't care how upset he was," he divulged, "he had no right to say those things to you."
I raised my eyebrows and saw his point, but I knew he was only seeing things from my point of view.
I shouldn't expect anything else, I thought.
"You're right," I said, not bothering to rectify his thought process.
Gramps then sighed, and looked beyond me to my wagon. He shook his head again at the sight of my things.
"Where are you going to go?" he asked.
I shrugged and took in a deep breath.
My options are limited, I thought, and I can't leave the mainland yet.
"Lake Hylia," I said, "I have a friend who lives there."
Gramps looked at me surprised.
"Lake Hylia?" he repeated. "I had no idea you knew anyone north of Ordon."
I kept my expression indifferent when he said that.
I know, I thought, and I've worked very hard to keep it that way.
"Yeah..." I said, not bothering to elaborate, "he's kind of eccentric and likes his privacy."
The old man raised his eyebrows when he heard me say the gender.
"He?" he inquired. "You're going to live with a man?"
I pursed my lips together, realizing I said too much.
Now that I think about it, I thought, that wasn't the smartest thing to say. I better deflect.
However, before I could reply the sound of a horse's hooves precluded the air. Gramps and I both turned around in surprise to see a royal guard trotting up the incline and stopping near the entrance of the village.
What's this? I wondered.
Many of the villagers who were preoccupied and indoors, came outside when they saw the messenger approach.
"What's going on?" several people asked each other.
I glanced over at them and raised my eyebrows.
That's a good question, I thought, but remained quiet.
The rider steadied his horse and addressed the small crowd.
"Greetings ladies and gentlemen of Kakariko," the guard said, "I have an urgent decree by his majesty, king Daphnes of Hyrule."
I felt my eyes widen when he said that.
King Daphnes... I thought, this must be serious.
The guard dismounted, and removed the scroll he had tucked underneath his arm. He unrolled it, and began reading aloud.
"'His royal majesty, King Daphnes Nohansen, sovereign and prefect of Hyrule, has hereby decreed that Link, the Hero of Time, has henceforth been disavowed as the First Knight of Hyrule,'" he read.
I felt my heart race when he said that. The news entered the stunned crowd in complete disbelief.
What? I thought. He's been disavowed?
The soldier continued.
"'The former knight has been arrested on charges of: sedition, rogue action, and dishonorable conduct for a soldier,'" the guard read on. "'He will be jailed for thirty days before he is released and effectively banished from the kingdom of Hyrule.'"
My pulse danced as my eyes widened when he said that.
Banished? I thought, feeling all the blood drain from my face. The king is going to have him banished… over a rumor? A rumor with no merit?
"His majesty further states: 'Let this be a lesson to all men in the kingdom of Hyrule,'" he continued, "'no station, or privilege, should ever make a citizen forget what he is first and foremost, and that is a servant of his or her country.'" With that the messenger concluded. "That is all."
The guard then rolled up his conscription notice and mounted his stallion once more. Afterwards, he turned and galloped out of the village back to Hyrule Field. He was probably assigned to deliver the message to all the outside regions. I was dumbfounded by the news and stared after him for a few moments.
I can't believe this, I thought, what could have possibly happened to precipitate this kind of reaction from the king?
I swallowed hard and then glanced over at gramps. He had a concerned expression on his face. I then turned my attention to the other villagers. I felt my heart skip when I saw they were all staring at me... all of them.
Oh no, I thought, looking around.
Gramps saw that, and took it upon himself to get in front of me and negate some of the glares from the other villagers.
"What are you all looking at?" he demanded. "Go on about your business!"
A few of them groaned at his words. The lady I consulted a couple months ago shook her head in contempt at his defense of me.
"You know very well what we're looking at!" she exclaimed. "You can pretend it isn't an issue, but that slut came to Hyrule with the sole purpose of being the fantasy of any handsome man that would fancy her! Poor master Link didn't have the willpower to overcome her whiles, and now his entire life has been ruined!"
What? I thought, not being able to believe my ears. However, when I thought about it more, the woman did have a point. This is all happening without Link and I sleeping together. I couldn't imagine how guilty I'd feel if something had happened between us last night.
The villagers weren't done.
"Yeah!" a man chimed in. "That tramp came into this village and has done nothing but cause social discord! She practically threw herself at the first knight whenever she had the chance and opportunity!"
I swallowed hard at hearing that, and tried not to get upset.
Now, he knows that's false, I thought, none of these people saw my interactions with Link. They're simply going on what they wanted to believe. Well, I won't give them the satisfaction of getting me upset. They can think what they want.
Gramps wasn't going to let that slide.
"You know damn well none of that is true!" gramps defended. "You all saw with your own eyes that that knight came into this village of his own free will! The only person who ruined his life, was him!"
A carpenter in the back was shaking his head in disagreement.
"How long are you going to defend that green haired whore old man?" he demanded. "We all know what kind of woman she is!" he then directed his attention to me. "This village isn't a brothel! Take your dirty ways back to the red lantern district where you came from!"
I felt a little taken aback by his words, but wasn't offended by them. After all, none of these people knew me, and in their eyes I was the reason their hero was defrocked. And honestly, in some ways they were right. I closed my eyes and sighed.
I just need to get out of here, I thought.
However, gramps wasn't going to allow them to keep badgering me.
"Now, just a minute!" gramps hollered in my defense. "You are not-" he tried.
This was going to go back and forth if I didn't disengage this right now. I stopped my friend by putting my hand on his shoulder. He turned to look at me surprised, and I shook my head no.
I'm not going to have him ruin his chances here because of me, I thought, he still needs to make a living.
"It's okay gramps," I said, "I think I should just leave."
"But Saria-" he tried.
"It's okay," I interrupted again in a gentle manner, "really, you need to think about your health."
Gramps stared at me for a moment when he heard me say that, sighed, and finally nodded.
"Alright," he said, "I'll escort you out."
I tried to smile at his offer.
"Thanks," I replied.
I climbed onto the wagon and took hold of the reigns. I helped gramps up to the seat next to me, and when he was situated, I giddied the Ordonian mare down the incline to Hyrule Field. Once I was way past the impasse, I helped my old friend out and said my final goodbye to him.
"You be careful my dear," gramps told me, "and don't take what any of them said to heart. You're a good, decent person."
When he said that to me it made me think of what Link said to me earlier in the day.
"I thought you were a good, decent person…" his voice echoed through my head, "I had you pegged wrong…" I pursed my lips together and gripped my reigns tighter. Let's see if I can change that view you have of me Link, I thought.
I smiled at gramps.
"I will be careful, and thank you for being so incredible," I said, then giddied away.
I headed to Lake Hylia.
I have to hurry, I thought.
~SSS~
I arrived at Lake Hylia well past dusk, and stopped the wagon when I got to my destination. Before I got down, the door to the Seaside Laboratory opened and the eccentric old scientist who lived there looked like he was ready to leave. A smile curled my lips at the sight of him, and when he saw me he looked at me surprised.
"Saria?" he asked.
I nodded, then jumped off the wagon. I landed gracefully and started towards him.
"Long time no see," I said with encrypted sarcasm.
The old scientist smiled at me knowing exactly what I meant.
"Indeed," he said, giving me an offhanded stare, "however, you've caught me at the most inopportune time my dear. I'm on my way out to visit a test subject, what are you doing here?"
I walked up to him and put my hands on my hips. I avoided his eyes for a moment and sighed.
How do I even ask this? I thought.
The old man saw the look on my face and became intrigued.
"Saria…" he trailed, "what's going on?"
That's what I'd like to know, I thought, not sharing my concerns, but something doesn't make sense here. Why is…? I didn't finish what I was thinking.
"I need a favor..." I detracted finally, and raised my eyebrows, "can you help me?"
The old man narrowed his eyes at me for a moment, then slowly nodded.
"What did you have in mind?" he asked.
~SSS~
Hyrule Castle Dungeon: Link's POV
The dungeon was dank, cold, and empty. I was the only prisoner. After a ridiculous sentence hearing mandated by Daphnes to have my crimes read to me in full for six hours, I was finally led away to the crypt of the castle. The crypt was no place to laugh at. It used to be a torture chamber for one of the corrupt, deranged kings of the past. There were horror stories about how people could hear the screams of the individuals being killed there. The nights were often the most brutal, and blood curdling. I didn't let the history bother me, but I wasn't arrogant about my own heroism. There were things I did in my own time as an adventurer I'd like to forget, and surroundings like these made that hard. Even still, this was my home for the next thirty days. The guard opened the cell, and shoved me inside. I turned my head slightly, and gave the guard a look of warning.
He's only doing this because I'm shackled, I thought, let my hands had been free, I would've…
I let my thoughts trail when I was uncuffed and forced to get acquainted with my new surroundings.
Isn't this pleasant? I thought sarcastic.
The guard smirked justifiably when he saw me look around.
"It serves you right for rejecting the princess for some floozy," he said to me, as he locked the iron door. "Looks like you're not the golden boy that everyone thought you were."
I shook my head, not caring about his biased conjecture.
Whatever, I thought.
I sighed, ignoring the guard, knowing he didn't have a clue as to what he was talking about.
He probably wants to marry Zelda, I thought mordant.
I walked across the sixteen feet by sixteen feet cell, and sat down on the hay cot. I ran my hands over my face, seriously pondering what I was going to do. I had no idea what to expect, and Daphnes didn't say what he was going to have done to me after the thirty day sentence. I was sure, however, everyone else in the kingdom knew.
What's going to happen after my imprisonment? I wondered. Is he going to have me banished? I raised my eyebrows at the thought. Probably, it makes the most sense.
I sat back against the limestone wall, wondering what would become of Hyrule if I departed. It was something I hadn't really considered before, but given my new circumstances, I needed to think about that. Being the chosen hero was a serious responsibility, and one that wasn't to be taken lightly. I knew this, and was anticipating what this could mean for me.
The goddesses would find another hero, I rationalized, that's just how it works.
I shrugged at the simplicity of my reasoning. However, even though I knew that was the case, it still didn't sit well with me. I hated the thought of my legacy being reduced to a perfunctory sensationalized scandal.
A scandal that doesn't exist, I thought annoyed.
I sighed and sat up when abruptly when I heard the dungeon door open.
It must be change of shift, I thought.
I was correct, because the previous guard had left and was replaced with someone new. It only to me a moment to recognize who he was, he was the bastard from yesterday. I had to keep my temper in check.
You and your big ass mouth, I thought upset.
I narrowed my eyes when I saw him. He merely smirked smugly at me. I took in a deep irritated sigh and sat back against the wall.
"You just couldn't keep your mouth shut could you?" I accused, as he walked around doing his cell checks. There was no reason for it. I was the only prisoner there.
What an idiot, I thought.
The guard stopped in front of my cell when I addressed him.
"I saw an opportunity and took it," the guard replied simply. "As reward for my loyalty to the throne, I received a commission."
I scoffed in incredulity and shook my head.
You call this a commission? I thought in disbelief.
"You guard a dungeon now," I divulged, making sure he knew his rank was of no real significance. "Don't kid yourself into believing you'll be fighting the forces of evil anytime soon."
The guard apparently didn't take too kindly to my insult.
"I wouldn't be so quick to insult someone, former first knight of Hyrule," he shot back, "you were in line to become the next king and you foiled that up because you allowed your dick to do your thinking," he shook his head at me pitifully. "Now, you're just another commoner stuck in a dungeon because you were too arrogant to seize the great opportunity in front of you."
I raised my eyebrows at his comeback, realizing I didn't have a reply. His facts were muddled, but he had a pretty good counter to my insult.
Touche, I thought.
He continued to smirk at me, thinking he'd gotten under my skin.
You wouldn't be smiling if I was out there you bastard, I thought upset.
It was amazing to me that one little insatiate rumor could cause so much trouble. One stupid, viral-like rumor was ruining my life.
I wasn't even given a chance to plead my case, I thought angry, I was put on display as if I were a no account criminal.
And It wasn't just me I had to consider, there was someone else's welfare I had to think of as well. Saria had been dragged into this entire ordeal because of my obsession with wanting to know who she truly was. Now, she was being forced to live someplace else in order to escape the harassment and scrutiny she's been under, or at least a measure of it.
When I get out of here I need to find her and apologize, I pondered.
The full gravity of what I said to her the day before was storming back to my mind. I didn't even understand why I said some of the things I said. Why was I so jealous of what was, or wasn't there? I made a placated assumption about her solely for the purpose and intention of making myself feel better, and for what? A lost friendship? So my pride could feel temporarily better? It didn't make sense, and it was stupid for me to act that way.
I was so cruel to her, I thought with guilt, I'm not going to leave things the way they are with her. I'm going to do right by her.
After I made that resolve, I spent the next few hours introspectively reflecting on what I was going to after my imprisonment. I knew the kingship was out of the question, and honestly, I was okay with that.
Fine, I thought, somewhat relieved, I'm tired of living my life as if it were in a fishbowl anyway.
That thought comforted me greatly. Being king was a heavy burden, and since Daphnes was so bent on insisting that I was ill bred, I didn't need it.
I'm sure he'll find another prefect or counselor for his daughter, I thought, it all seems like smoke and mirrors anyway.
I stared at the embossed ceiling and sighed. I laid back and stretched out on the cot. My current thoughts were bringing back to mind the desire for a simple life. I was a simple man of simple means, and I didn't need a lot to make me happy. If I had a roof over my head, and some good land to till, I could be perfectly content. I raised my eyebrows at the notion.
Maybe… my thoughts trailed, maybe I could still have that. Maybe all these things happening now aren't a terrible thing. In the end, maybe life will answer a dormant desire I've always had.
However, as much as I wanted that, there were still the threats to Hyrule to consider. I narrowed my eyes and stared at the reinforced crossbeams on the limestone ceiling. There were biomes forming within the algae.
But…what about Zant? I wondered. I couldn't just leave the whole country in danger because my life of privilege was gone.
I sighed at this.
I could still fight for Hyrule, I reasoned, I don't need a crown to do that.
The more I thought about the alternatives, the less concerned I became with the future. In fact, these new thoughts were sounding a whole lot better than what I was previously undertaking. The crown and the kingship were for politicians and prefects who desired power. I was none of those. I was a man who grew up in the forest, and appreciated small things.
I could get a farm, I thought, or plant some pumpkins.
I grinned at the idea of me being a pumpkin farmer. I actually wasn't a bad cultivator. I had a pretty good patch in Kokiri Forest. I went on with the idea.
Maybe I could wrangle some goats, I joked to myself.
"I could do that," I muttered to myself, and then chuckled.
All of a sudden, my thoughts were interrupted by the guard banging the butt of his sword on the prison bars.
What now? I thought irritated.
"Hey," he called to me, "you have a visitor."
My eyes widened when he said that.
What? I thought perplexed, then sat up. Who's coming to see me at this hour?
I saw a hooded woman hand the guard a small purse of rupees. He then nodded for her to approach.
"Keep it quick," he said to her.
The woman nodded at the guard and then unhooded herself at my cell bars. It was Zelda. I looked at her surprised. If Daphnes knew she were here, I would be sitting under a guillotine in a few hours. I wasn't going to lie, I was indifferent with her coming to see me. I wasn't upset, but I was excited either. She caused me a great deal of trouble earlier that day due to her jealousy.
What does she want now? I wondered. A blood sample?
Zelda saw the look on my face and gripped the bars of the cell eagerly. She stared at me with a slight desperation. I only stared back. I honestly did not want to speak to her at that moment.
Please Zelda, I thought, just go back to your chamber.
Zelda bit her lower lip at seeing my expression, and reached into my cell with an open hand.
"Link…" she whispered, hoping I'd take her invitation.
I looked at her hand, but didn't extend my own. I wasn't in the mood for theatrics.
Just say your piece princess and leave, I thought.
"What do you want your highness?" I asked finally.
Zelda looked genuinely distraught at my rejection of her, and pulled her hand back. She then looked away and started to cry. I listened to her weep softly for a few moments, before she managed to pull herself together. I would normally be a comforting agent to her, but not today.
"Oh Link," she whimpered, "I-I'm sorry."
I didn't reply right away, and sighed.
"You shouldn't be here," I said.
Zelda shook her head at my words.
"I can't help it," she replied, "I was worried about you."
Why? I thought upset. You probably knew what I was doing. You're probably still having me watched.
I couldn't help but feel a little bit of contempt for her.
"Well…" I said with a thoughtful shrug, "I'm one headache you won't have to worry about any longer. You heard your father earlier."
Zelda's eyes widened and she sucked in a troubled breath. She covered her mouth and shook her head. Her eyes refilled with tears.
"If that's supposed to be a joke, that isn't funny!" she snapped at me.
I was a little annoyed with this. I was in no way shape or form laughing.
First, she has me accused, I thought, and now she wants to play the martyr.
"Zelda-" I tried.
"No!" she interrupted. "I will not accept this! I won't marry anyone else. Even if I have to live as a commoner to be by your side I won't marry anyone else but you! You don't understand Link, I need you! How can I protect Hyrule without you?"
My eyes widened when she said that.
"I'm not going to have you give up the throne for-" I tried to say.
"I won't be without you!" she interrupted me forcefully.
There was an element of desperation to her voice that I found a little troubling. I didn't know why, and I didn't know what it was, but it was there.
There's something not right about this, I thought, her plea almost seems too earnest. I wouldn't be in here if I were allowed to explain myself, I went on. Now, she wants me to act as though none of her actions precipitated this, and that crying and a few strong words make all her deceit okay.
"That's no longer your call," I said to her quietly.
Zelda wiped her eyes away and gripped the bars again.
"I love you Link," she said with eagerness, "you have to know that I'm in love with you."
I crossed my arms over my chest when she said that.
If this is your love, I don't want to see your hate, I thought.
"I know," I verbalized.
She stared at me for a moment, and took what I said as a hopeful sign.
"I've spoken to father to get you out of here," she said to me, "a future king shouldn't be treated this way."
I narrowed my eyes in disbelief and shook my head.
A future king? I thought. That's only a dream now princess. There's no way Daphnes will reinstate me, and to be honest I don't think I want to be reinstated.
"I'm not going to be the king Zelda," I divulged, "you and I both know that."
Zelda shook her head defiantly at me.
"Don't say that!" she replied. "I'll explain to father I was wrong, and that I was merely acting out of jealousy."
I only looked at her and pursed my lips together.
Just like a princess, I thought incredulous.
"Not everything can be relieved by crying to daddy, your highness," I replied with an undercurrent of cynicism.
However, I had to rethink that premise.
Well… maybe in her case it can, I thought.
Zelda just stared at me after hearing that, then for some odd reason narrowed her eyes upset.
"You think I like seeing you this way?" she demanded. "You think I want-"
I had had enough of this. I was sick of her trying to play innocent.
You are not going to downplay what you've done, I thought.
"Apparently what I think doesn't matter," I interrupted suddenly, "because if it did, you would have at least allowed me to state my piece. You allowed me nothing Zelda! Nothing!"
I had to remember my tone, because the guard came back and banged on the bar at my slightly raised voice.
"Quiet down before I go in there and mess you up!" he threatened.
I just stared at him.
With the kind of day I'm having, I'd really like to see you try that, I thought, inviting the skirmish with my eyes.
I avoided the tussle when I turned my attention back to the princess. Zelda was looking at me shocked. I didn't understand why, she had to know I was going to be upset with the way she was acting.
"You can't… you can't mean that," she said finally.
I shook my head and shrugged.
"How could I not?" I replied to her. "You saw what happened with your father! I was put on display like a no account dog!"
Zelda was not going to let me slide with that.
"You had every opportunity to confess to me yesterday, and yet chose not to!" she shot back.
I scoffed and ran a hand over my face, getting more and more irritated with this conversation by the minute.
This is ridiculous, I thought.
"Again," I began carefully, "there was nothing to confess because I did nothing wrong."
"Link I-" she tried.
I was done with this subject. I didn't want to talk about this anymore.
"I'm in here because of you!" I interrupted point blank. "Don't try to deny that princess! Your jealousy is the reason why I'm here!"
Even though I may have felt vindicated with what I said, I wish I had bitten my tongue. That, or used a little more fortitude, because my words caught her off guard. It wasn't fair for me to blame my entire situation on her. I did act presumptuously and rally the king's anger.
I really need to work on my prudence, I thought.
Zelda drew back a little and looked away. She bit her lower lip and didn't reply. I knew what I said probably hurt her.
The more I open my mouth, I thought, the more I make things harder for myself. Why can't I revert back to my silent self? When did I become so impulsive with my speech?
"I…" she trailed, and took in a deep sigh, "I just didn't want to share you with anyone," she said in a rare moment of vulnerability. "Everyone thinks that I always have to be perfect," she looked at me just then, "well I'm not perfect Link, and yes I do have feelings like any other Hylian. I do feel jealous when another woman takes what little attention I get from you away from me. Yes, it's petty, yes, it's childish, but I don't care. I love you, and I know that seamstress reminds you of..."
My eyes grew wide at her low utterance. I waited for her to continue, but she trailed off. I found my heart pounding a little bit at what she possibly knew.
Reminds me of who? I wondered.
"What were you going to say?" I asked.
Zelda didn't look at me, but answered anyway.
"I was going to say," she answered with a sigh, "she reminds you of… the Forest Sage," she divulged.
I looked away from her when she said that. I wasn't expecting this. I wasn't expecting her to know this.
"Do... you love her still Link?" she asked me, without looking at me.
I looked at her surprised, a little caught unawares by her inquiry.
Still? I thought. So, she's always known.
I didn't answer her question, and I wasn't going to entertain a notion that I wasn't sure of.
"She's gone Zelda," I replied, "I haven't seen her in years."
It was hard for me to say that, but I knew it was the truth. Zelda looked at me just then.
"But if she were to come back you wouldn't hesitate to go to her, would you?" she asked me.
I wasn't going to entertain 'would be's' 'maybe's' or 'if's.' I was a man of practicality, and there was nothing practical with wishful thinking.
She's a Kokiri, I thought, it can never be.
"I don't like thinking about things that will never happen," I replied, avoiding her question.
Zelda looked away again, and her eyes refilled. I was sure she knew the subliminal messaging there.
I'm sorry, I thought.
"I see," she said.
She stayed quiet for a long time, then got up from the saw dusted ground.
"I will make amends," she divulged to me finally, then bowed.
I was surprised at the gesture, and watched the princess as she headed for the exit. However, before she left I stopped her. I wanted to know what she meant.
That's a vague inclination, I thought.
"How?" I asked suddenly, then stood up and went over to the bars. "How are you going to make amends?"
Zelda halted, and turned to look at me. She tried to smile.
"You'll see," she said, staring deeply into my eyes.
She bowed once more, and even though I didn't want to, I bowed back.
She's still the princess and the future queen, I thought, she deserves that respect. Even still, I have to wonder what she meant.
Zelda then took her leave.
~SSS~
Two Days Later, Around Midnight in the Dungeon: Link's POV
The routine hadn't changed. The next couple days came in went in a haze of habit. Now, I understood why prisoners were crazy. Staying in a cell all day could drive a person insane. Even still, I made the best of it, and began my countdown to freedom or banishment.
It's either one or the other, I thought.
I managed to induce sleep, after a menial supper of gruel and day old biscuits. I was in the third stage of non REM, when I was suddenly awakened by a sharp whip that broke the sound barrier.
What the...? I thought.
My eyes shot open immediately, and I saw a small projectile above my head in my horizontal view. The dart was about three inches long, with a dense metallic coating and a hollow inside. It was capped with an iron ore tip that opened once it hit its target. I knew that because I some purplish ooze smear on the wall where it hit. I pulled the ballistic out of the wall and immediately sat up.
What the hell is this? I thought, but my eyes widened when I turned and found I had a new visitor. Sweet Farore, I thought in disbelief, he's here…
Standing in front of my cell was a man dressed in all black with a cowl, a headdress, and hood. He was holding a crossbow on his left wrist. It was the assassin from the forest. I looked at the hooded individual intrepidly, trying to anticipate their next move.
How the hell did they get in here? I thought, trying to scan the environment for a way out. It didn't look good for me. I had very limited space.
The assassin raised his wrist and aimed again, the shot fired instantly. I quickly dodged it, and hurried to a standing position. I heard muffled laughter from underneath the hood.
"You're good," the assassin whispered, "now dodge this!" he then took aim and shot again.
My goddess! I thought, feeling a twinge of panic.
I was quick enough to dodge that shot as well.
"Hmph," the assassin grunted impressed, and then reached over to his side and brought forth a vessel of keys, "you're so good, I might let you out of there."
My eyes narrowed slightly in confusion.
What? I thought.
I looked at the maniac with open suspicion. This certainly wasn't what I was expecting.
"What do you want?" I demanded.
The assassin paused for a moment.
"You don't want to get out of there?" he asked.
He thinks he funny, I thought upset.
"What the hell do you want?" I repeated.
The killer stared at me for a long time and grunted again.
"So," he whispered, "you like to ask questions, huh?" he took aim at me again. "Okay, question this."
Damn it! I thought.
The shot was fired, and I dodged it again.
This psycho is crazy! I thought incredulous.
"When I get out of here I'm going-" I threatened.
The deranged lunatic put a finger to his clothed lips.
"I just had to be sure," the killer interrupted in a whispery voice, and then pointed to his left, "your friend over there wasn't so lucky."
I didn't move, but I glanced in the general direction the assassin pointed, and saw the incapacitated guard. There was an arrow in his gut. I couldn't lie, I was shocked.
I hated the bastard, but I certainly didn't want him dead! I thought.
As if clairvoyant, the assassin said, "He's not dead, that projectile was coated with a sedative that reduces trauma and puts its assailant to sleep."
I looked back at the assassin, not trusting his word, but still found it puzzling that he felt it necessary to reassure me.
What is this guy's deal? I wondered.
"What the hell do you want?" I demanded yet again.
The assassin stood there staring at me for a moment, and then raised his projectile once more. I immediately felt my heart accelerate at the sight and braced myself to dodge another attack.
This is one sick bastard! I thought.
However, instead of firing, the assassin made a popping sound. I inadvertently reacted, thinking another shot was fired, but nothing was released. There was more muffled laughter under that hood.
"Fooled you," the assassin whispered, "my, my, my aren't you jumpy."
I took in a deep breath and swallowed hard.
The only reason this psychopath can rattle me is because I'm stuck in a cage, I thought. If we had equal playing ground he would not be able to do this to me!
I made it a point not to show any emotion, as the killer was watching me closely.
You can't show weakness Link, I told myself.
The assassin came up and tapped his crossbow on the bars of the cell.
"You're probably wondering why you're not dead," he said with an ambiguous confidence.
I didn't reply, but that was a good point. The killer was studying my face.
"Strange times lead to strange bedfellows," the assassin went on cryptically, "and alas now your precious princess is caught in the mix."
My eyes widened when I heard that.
Zelda! I thought.
"What?" I demanded. "What the hell are you talking about?"
The killer paused before he answered.
"There's a hit out on the princess," the assassin divulged, "I was hired to do the job."
I couldn't believe my ears.
"By who?" I demanded, already thinking I knew the answer.
The killer paused again and stared at me.
"The great puppet master their self," the assassin replied finally.
I looked away for a moment, having to control my anger.
So, I thought, that fiend has finally decided to make his move.
"Zant," I said under my breath, "that bastard wants to kill the princess to mark his revenge against the royal family!"
The assassin only stood there nodding while at the same shaking his head obtusely. It was a total contradictory stance. It was as if he wasn't really agreeing or disagreeing with anything I was saying.
Toying with me, I thought upset, this bastard is toying with me!
"I will kill her," the assassin divulged in cold rationale, "it's up to you to save her, white knight of Hyrule."
I looked at the assassin strange just then.
Something about this is off putting, I thought, it doesn't make sense.
"Is… is that why you're here?" I asked, not being able to help my inquiry.
The assassin held up the keys to the dungeon again and jingled them in a taunting cadence.
"Awww," he whispered, "now you're catching on. I'm here to free you," the assassin replied, "what's the fun of hunting, without proper competition."
I looked to the keys, and then back to the killer.
"You're sick," I muttered inadvertently, I couldn't help it, "who thinks of killing people as sport?"
The assassin nodded.
"That I am," the assassin replied, and ignored my question, "but there are worse things in this world though. Sickness is only a byproduct of it."
I narrowed my eyes angrily.
"When do you plan to strike?" I demanded, going back to the initial subject.
"The day of the coronation," the assassin replied with icy accuracy.
I was taken aback by that.
Wait a minute… I thought.
"What?" I asked surprised.
The assassin laughed again; quiet, whispery laughter.
"What better way to shoot her highness down than as her portrayal of something she cherishes the most," the assassin replied, "Hylia the protector of Hyrule."
I narrowed my eyes at him.
"You won't kill her," I promised, "I will stop you."
The killer shrugged.
"That's the whole point," he said strangely.
The assassin paused and stared at me for a long moment, and that was when I noticed the glimmer of blue in their eyes. It was subtle, but he let his guard down a little too much during his taunt, and a glimpse of his identity was revealed.
So, this bastard is a Hylian, I thought, what a bloody traitor… to become a killer for money.
The killer took note of my staring and lowered his hood further. He immediately reengaged himself took another shot at me. I reacted quick, and dodged that shot too.
When I find out who you are... I trailed the threat in my head.
"I hope you do stop me," the assassin said, "it'll only make going after her a second time that much more enjoyable… or a third time, or a fourth time, or however long it takes to kill her."
My anger was getting the better of me, and suddenly I wished I hadn't been so cruel to Zelda when she came to visit. Her life was in danger now, and I had no way of warning her.
I have to tell the king somehow, I thought. I can't believe my arrest had to happen with such erroneous circumstances now taking place. This is insane!
"I swear to you when I get my hands on you-" I began.
"You'll what?" The assassin interrupted. "Kill me? Death doesn't scare me, white knight of Hyrule. No, no you see... death... death is the ultimate orgasm. It's the transcendent high that we all want one day. I should know, I've killed enough people to experience it. And if I should be so honored to die by your hand, I hope you orgasm too."
I took a step back, realizing this was a different sort of villainy I was dealing with.
Threats won't work with a man like this, I thought, he's exceptionally crazy, but not just any kind of crazy. He's a cool, visceral, rational type of crazy. The most dangerous kind of crazy there is.
"You're… you're really insane," I said, almost as if the words just fell out of my mouth.
The killer snickered.
"You already told me that," the assassin replied back in a casual manner, "insanity is implied, and if that's the case then for all intensive purposes, you're just as insane as I am."
Oh no you don't, I thought.
I wasn't going to play this game with this psycho. He was too depraved to have any concept of right or wrong. His moral compass was virtually nonexistent.
"Give me the keys," I demanded all of a sudden, "if it's a hunt you want, it's a hunt you'll get."
The assassin paused for a moment after hearing me say that.
"Fair enough," he said, "a few words of advice: when you get out of here keep a low profile. The interdict of your fall from grace has already been decreed throughout all of Hyrule. Find a friend you can trust and go to them. Stay away from all the main roads, and don't utter what I've told you to anyone. If you do, I'll aim for more than your precious princess, agreed?"
When he said that I knew I had to renege on getting a message to Daphnes. If this killer found out I cued the royal family to his attack, there was no telling what the repercussions would be.
I have to keep it to myself for now, I thought.
"Agreed," I replied, realizing I had no choice.
The assassin then threw the keys to me in the cell. I caught them with one free hand, but then suddenly felt a sharp pain at my left side. I winced and looked down to see a small projectile pierce my abdomen. I looked back up at the killer in shock.
"You bastard!" I said angrily.
The killer scoffed.
"Last bit of advice: go see the Deku Tree if you don't die," the assassin said to me, "and never get too comfortable with your opponent that you trust them, otherwise what happened to you just now will happen to you again. I bid you goodnight."
With that, the assassin turned and ran down the hall. He jumped up onto one of the high cedar beams and disappeared into a passageway accessed from the limestone ceiling. I watched after him, but immediately began to feel groggy.
How the hell does the assassin know about the Deku Tree? I thought, but immediately subsided the recourse when a sharp pain began to radiate up my torso.
I looked down and saw a small projectile protruding right below my spleen.
"Damn it!" I muttered, knowing that if I pulled it out it would only make matters worse.
I had to leave it in and get out of there before the next change of shift.
I've only got one shot at this, I thought.
I unlocked the cell and hurried down the hall, but stopped when I saw the guard on the ground. I didn't want to leave him there in such a state, and I didn't trust the killer's words with regard to his condition either.
I better make sure he's alive, I thought.
I pulled the guard up to a sitting position to increase his work of breathing. Once he was sitting upright, I checked his pulse.
Good, I thought, he's still alive.
I made sure his head was steady and got ready to continue, but then I stopped when I noticed his sword.
"I could use that," I muttered, realizing I had no weapons.
I immediately made the decision to take it, and headed for the exit. I paused for a moment, and peered around the corner of a limestone wall to check and see if the aisle was clear. When I saw the guard was clear, I sprinted down the hall holding my side. I didn't want to leave a bloody trail for them to follow. I cupped my tunic and looked down at my wound. It was getting bigger.
I have to hurry, I thought.
Once I was down the hall, I noticed two guards standing adjacent to the primary exit. Instead of attacking them head on, I decided to create a diversion to pull them away. I looked around and saw the chandelier above them. It was one of the few in desperate need of repair. Several of the extension ropes keeping it locked in place were dethreading.
That'll work, I thought.
I crept over to where the ropes met at a brass recess, and silently began slicing through the threads. A few plucks later, the resistance gave way and I heard a loud crash. I quickly put my sword away and sprinted for the exit. I narrowly passed out of eye shot of a couple guards responding to the distraction. With them gone, I hurried through the next set of halls, until I was finally outside. Once there, I went and hurried over the hill and climbed the fence. The projectile went deeper as I pulled my upper body up over the rock effacement.
Damn it! I thought.
"Ah," I moaned in pain as I landed.
I looked around after the jump to see if the area was clear. The outside perimeter guards had become distracted from the diversion created inside. Once I was ensured no one was around, I whipped out my ocarina and called for Epona. There was no way I was going to make it where I needed to go without my horse. I had to calm the mare down when she approached. I didn't want her whining to get me caught.
"Easy girl," I whispered, "easy."
I mounted her carefully as I was really starting to bleed profusely under my clothes. I shook my head as a sudden onset of dizziness came over me.
Sweet Farore, I thought, shaking my head, what the hell was on that dart?
I didn't have time to think of that now. I had to find a haven, and find it quickly.
"Find someone you can trust..." the assassin's advice echoed through my mind.
There was only one person I could think of at that moment, and that was Saria.
I hope she isn't still angry, I thought, trying to fight off a dizzy spell.
I didn't hesitate for a moment. I immediately headed for Lake Hylia.
~SSS~
Lake Hylia: Saria's POV
I snuggled comfortably in bed reading a book on different forest unguents, when I heard the neigh and trot of a horse approach.
What in the world? I thought, not expecting any visitors.
I opened the shutters and peered out the window to see Link barely conscious atop his horse.
"Oh my goddess!" I whispered, and hurried out of my room down the stairs.
When I opened the door, I saw that he had stumbled off his horse and was bleeding terribly. My eyes widened in dread.
"Link!" I called out. "What are you doing here?"
~SSS~
Lake Hylia: Link's POV
I arrived at Lake Hylia right before dawn. I dismounted Epona as blood had soaked through the lower left portion of my tunic, and bled onto my horse's back.
I'm sorry Epona, I thought, I'll wash you as soon as I get better.
I could stand, but barely.
There is something on this projectile, I thought, looking down at my stomach, there's no way one little missile could do this.
I finally pulled it out and tried to observe the tip. It was a single pronged missile used for poison induction, what I initially suspected when I saw the purple ooze on the wall in the cell. I pocketed the projectile and shook my head. My dizziness was getting worse.
"I need… to… find… Saria," I struggled to say.
I looked around and saw a carriage stationed at the Sea Side Laboratory. It had urns and thread patterns situated on it.
She's here, I thought, with a small pang of relief. However, it was short lived as I was seeing everything in kaleidoscopic vertigo. I'm going to pass out.
I glanced up at the third story window and saw a light. I then saw a face appear in the window sill. It was Saria. Her eyes widened and she quickly left the window.
I hope she's coming out here, I thought.
A few moments later the door opened to the lab and she hurried outside.
"Link!" she said to me in utter surprise. "What are you doing here?"
I didn't answer. I tried to stand, but my level of consciousness was falling. Saria immediately halted her questions when she saw the blood on my tunic. She immediately took one of my arms and wrapped it around her shoulders.
"I have to get you inside!" she said in slight panic.
I helped as much as I could, and tried to fight passing out. I knew there was no way Saria would be able to carry me up three stories of stairs. When we got to her room, she quickly shut the door, and placed me on one of the two beds. I looked into her eyes, trying to stay conscious.
What the hell was on that dart? I wondered in disbelief.
"Link!" she said my name in a panicked voice. "Stay with me! Don't fall asleep!"
I looked into her soft blue eyes, trying to follow her command, but I was going.
"Saria…" I whispered breathing hard.
Her eyes got wide when she heard that from me.
"It's okay Link," she reassured, "I'm here, please, wake up!"
I wanted to, I really did, but this poison was not going to let me. I stared into her eyes one last time, before I effectively passed out. The last thing I heard was Saria's voice crying out my name again and again.
"Link!" she called. "Link! Link!"
~SSS~
The next day I opened my eyes and gasped.
What happened? I wondered, having no memory of what took place.
I blinked several times to get my vision in focus, and ran a hand over my face. I swallowed hard when I felt my throat was dry.
Where's Saria? I wondered and slowly sat up.
I looked around the room briefly, and saw Saria wrapped in a blanket at my bedside sound asleep in a chair. I raised my eyebrows at her, surprised that she slept in such an uncomfortable position all night when there was an empty bed stationed at the far wall across the room. I looked to the table adjacent to her, and noticed a basin on top of it filled with blood tinged water and calipers. There were cloth bandages and adhesive liquids spread out on the surface, along with unguents and protein based solutions for healing. I stared at all the supplies and then glanced back over at Saria thankful at the level of care she went through to help me.
She must have stayed up all night taking care of me, I thought, feeling a twinge of guilt, I just pushed myself on her, and she helped me with no questions asked.
Saria stirred a little from her sleep, and turned her position in the recliner. A brief smile came across her face as she slept, but then it quickly went away. I grinned at the sight of her, and shook my head.
I wonder what she's dreaming about, I thought.
I sighed, but then took notice of her hands gripped at her blankets, and saw they were stained with iodine. Her fingertips were dark amber brown, and they were a little serrated with broken surface skin. That was often a feature seen in tailors and seamstresses. It was then I noticed I wasn't wearing my tunic and there a large bandage wrapped around my waist. I couldn't see them, but I could feel the incredible suture job she performed with the stitches she sewed in me.
She must've adhered my wound and cleansed it with iodine, I thought, she really looked out for me, didn't she?
The thought made me feel terrible in how I treated her a few days ago. I looked away from her and took in a deep sigh. I was wrong for assuming the way I did. I basically called her a liar and a whore without directly saying it, and she did nothing to deserve such reprehension. My head throbbed just then, and I put it to being a slight punishment for my recent sins.
It's what I deserve, I thought.
I looked back over at Saria, grateful that she wasn't a grudge worthy person, because she very well could've been. Even still, I had bigger concerns regarding this situation for her as well as myself. It was only a matter of time until Daphnes found out I escaped, and when he did, there was going to be a scour and search everywhere throughout Hyrule for my recapture. I was going to be considered a fugitive against the state, and anyone aiding and abetting me was considered an accessory to such actions, thus my concern for Saria.
If I stay here I'm putting her in danger, I thought.
I knew I had to lay low and find a base of operations until I figured out what I needed to do next. With all this added stress and confusion, there was still the threat on Zelda's life, and I was the only one who could protect her. How was I going to protect the princess, while at the same time lay low from Daphnes' purge? I didn't know exactly, but I knew it had to be done.
I'll figure it out, I thought, I have to, what choice do I have?
I stared at Saria while I thought about this, and smiled at her pretty sleeping face. I didn't know why but a funny abrupt thought came to me just then.
Wait a minute, it's okay for her to sleep in a chair, and not me? I wondered out of the blue. I should crawl into her lap and see how she likes it.
The thought of that made me chuckle. I could only imagine her facial expression if she woke up and found me in her lap.
She'd probably get up and try to kick my ass, I thought humorous, and given her skills, she stands a fighting chance.
I grinned at her again, and ran my hand over the bandages she implemented for me. I wasn't sure of the material, but whatever it was it was loud. The fibers were course and grating.
Sweet Farore! I thought in disbelief at the loud sound. What are these things made of?
I tried to stop before Saria aroused, but it was no use, she stirred and woke up. When she saw I was sitting up, she stretched and smirked.
"Well, hello there sleeping beauty," she said to me softly.
I looked into her eyes surprised at the pleasant greeting, and grinned at her.
She doesn't seem upset, I thought gratefully, thank the goddess for that.
"Hey," I replied softly.
She stared at me for a moment, getting a general overview of my disposition.
"How do you feel?" she asked.
I took in a deep sigh and shrugged.
"Alive, thanks to you," I replied.
She smiled at my answer.
"That's half the battle right?" she said, getting up and coming over to me. "How's your head?"
I rotated my neck from side to side to assess my head.
"It's good," I replied, "I have a little bit of a headache, but that's to be expected."
Saria nodded, and sat down next to me at the edge of the bed to check my wound. She undid the bandages carefully and took a look. The opening was sutured perfectly with no signs of dehiscence, or opening of the wound.
"Not bad for a seamstress," she said, impressed with her own work.
I smiled at her, silently awed by her level of skill with the needle.
"Not bad at all," I replied.
Saria leaned across me to grab a small salve in the window seal. It was a combination of Hylian bioflavonoid and protein. She gently dabbed some ointment on my stitches and rewrapped the bandages.
"You had purple chu jelly toxicity," she said to me abruptly when she got up.
I wasn't surprised at the diagnosis, but I was surprised that she knew what it was and alleviated it so quickly.
Maybe I should ask her, I thought
"You have blue chu jelly?" I asked her, detracting the subject.
She paused for a moment and shrugged.
"Well... I didn't," she began honestly, "but the elderly gentleman who owns the lab does. I just borrowed some from him."
I felt a little guilty infringing myself on her like this and making her take unnecessary risks. She just moved here. If she was caught stealing she could get kicked out.
"I'll be sure to pay him back," I promised.
She grinned at me.
"Don't worry about that," she replied, fanning my concerns off and sitting back down, "the important thing is you're better."
I looked away from her, my guilt never subsided.
She's being so kind to me, I thought, even after what I said to her.
We were silent for a few minutes before Saria decided to break it.
"You want to tell me what happened?" she asked. "I'm all ears if you want to talk."
I looked back over at her and sighed.
I might as well, I thought, I just have to be careful with what I say to her.
"Well... I'm sure you heard the news," I began, feeling I should start there.
Saria pursed her lips thoughtfully, and brought her knees to her chest in the chair.
"You mean the royal decree about you losing your privileges and the knighthood?" Saria replied sarcastic. "I haven't heard a word."
Whether she wanted to or not, her comment did make me grin. She had a natural flare for comedic undertone, and that's what I liked about her. She also seemed rational enough in her thinking, that she didn't allow her emotions to cloud her better judgement.
She's a sensible woman, I thought.
"Well, after all that, some nut came to visit me in my cell and made a threat on the princess's life," I replied, but realized I had gotten too loose with my lips, and paused for a moment.
Saria nodded, but looked perplexed.
"Some nut came to your cell?" she repeated me bewildered.
I knew I needed to be cautious with such sensitive information. The last thing I wanted was for Saria to get caught in the crossfire like before.
Don't be such an idiot Link, I scolded myself, you're not a knight anymore, true, but use your sense of reason.
"It doesn't matter," I replied making light of it, "it's not a big deal," I said, preparing to segue, "anyway I escaped, and then made my way here. That's how I came to be in your company."
She was silent for a moment at my explanation, but then nodded.
"Okay, well that sounded eventful," she said, deciding to drop the matter, she then jumped up enthusiastically and added, "I'll go make you some breakfast, are you hungry?"
She got off of that quick, I thought, finding her reaction a little odd, I should be grateful, she probably feels it's none of her business.
I raised my eyebrows at the kind offer and her jovial mood. I nodded in agreement appreciatively.
"I'd like that," I replied, "thank you."
She put a huge smile on her face, and then went to pick up the basin on the table by the bed, however, I stopped her.
"I've got it," I said, "you stayed up all night taking care of me, the least I can do is clean up."
Saria looked at me surprised.
"It isn't a big deal," she said, "I can clean it up."
I shook my head no.
"I wouldn't feel right with you doing that," I replied.
Her surprised expression never left, instead she shrugged, and let the matter go.
"Okay," she said, "if you say so."
Saria put the dirty basin back down and went over to the clean one situated under the vanity mirror and casually checked her appearance. There was no need to she looked beautiful. She decided to brush her teeth and wash her face with some volcano soap before she headed downstairs. I was watching her the entire time, and couldn't but feel some of the kindness she was exhibiting towards me was forced.
I know I was out of line the other day, I thought, why hasn't she brought that up yet? I mean even in passing; she hasn't said a word.
"That's better," she said once she was done, "can't have bad breath, and a dirty face when you're making breakfast, right?"
I grinned at her and nodded.
"True," I agreed.
She winked at me and headed for the door, but before she got a chance to open it, I stopped her.
Something about all this doesn't seem right, I thought.
"Saria wait," I said.
She paused, I knew she could tell by my tone that I had something serious to say. She probably already knew what it was.
"Yes?" she replied, not turning to look at me.
I paused for a moment, not sure how I should approach this, but then got up and walked over to her. She still wouldn't turn to look at me.
Just ask Link, I thought.
"Are you angry with me?" I inquired point blank.
Saria sighed irritably at the question and didn't answer. I didn't want us going on pretending that there wasn't some tension between us.
"Please Saria," I said, not letting up, "I need to know."
Saria let her head fall back, and she let out a low groan. She didn't reply right away.
"No Link," she said finally, "I'm not angry with you."
There was a brief silence between us, and I really wanted her to look at me. I hated the thought of apologizing, and not doing it face to face.
"I didn't mean-" I tried.
She turned around just then and stopped me.
"I don't want to talk about it," she interrupted quietly.
I stared into her eyes feeling guilty. I bit my lower lip and scratched my chin.
"But I said some-" I tried again.
"I remember what you said," she segued, and avoided my eyes, "just forget it, it doesn't matter. I had a lot of time to think about it, and you were right. I was deceitful to you, and I shouldn't have been."
I sighed and took hold of her shoulders.
"Even still," I said, "I had no right to say those things to you. I don't even know why I said them."
Saria blushed and looked down. She shrugged and crossed her arms over her chest.
"I know why you said them," she said simply, "you were angry, and I was out of place, but I understand."
I took in a deep sigh when she said that, and I knew she didn't want me to, but I took her in a hug and held her tight.
"Thanks for being so understanding," I whispered against her hair.
Saria reluctantly hugged me back, and sighed.
"It's no problem," she said, "what are friends for?"
It was rhetorical, but I grinned at it anyway. We stood holding each other for a moment when Saria broke the silence.
"Um..." she trailed slightly nervous, "I just wanted to clarify something with you though."
I pulled back and looked into her eyes.
"What's that?" I asked.
Saria's face was burning and she wouldn't look at me.
"Even though I was completely at fault for trying to seduce you," she said, "I... I just want you to know, I'm not that kind of woman usually."
I felt terrible that she felt she had to say this to me.
I'm such a jerk, I thought.
"Saria I know that, I-" I tried.
She shook her head and put her finger to my lips.
"I don't think you do," she said, and then divulged, "what I mean is, you would've been the... first... ever. The only reason I acted like that was because I thought that was how a woman was supposed to act when they seduced a man."
It took a moment for what she said to register, but when it did, I felt like an even bigger fool.
Damn it! I thought.
"Are you serious?" I asked.
She nodded and looked down at her hands.
"Saria-" I tried.
"We're both adults, let's not make a bigger deal about this than we should okay?" she asked, and I knew she didn't want to discuss the matter any longer.
I closed my mouth, not sure I agreed, but I nodded anyway. If there was one thing I knew about women, it was they always had two different meanings to everything they said: one was the truth, and the other was their intuition. I didn't want to mess with either in Saria's case.
"Okay," I replied quietly, "but if you change your mind you know we can talk, right?'
Saria nodded her answer, then looked up at me and smiled.
"What would you like to eat?" she asked me abruptly.
I hadn't even given food a thought, but now that it was addressed, I was hungry.
Anything but gruel, I thought.
"Uh…" I trailed, "whatever you make is fine."
She nodded impressed.
"You're learning," she said, then added, "Zelda will be very proud."
I looked at her thoughtfully just then, and realized the comment was a defense mechanism. She avoided my eyes again.
She's being cautious, I thought.
"I... think that might be over Saria," I said quietly.
Saria looked at me surprised, but then shook her head.
"Don't let eight years go down the drain over one misunderstanding," she said to me serious, "you two love each other too much to let your relationship go over something silly like this."
I paused after hearing that. I never recalled telling her how long I was with Zelda, however, it could've slipped in passing during a conversation. Even still, I wanted to inquire of it.
"How do you know I was with Zelda for a eight years?" I asked.
The question was asked in a casual manner, but Saria characteristically blushed.
"Uh... good guess I guess," she replied, and then quickly added, "you'll see you two are right for each other in the end."
She looked at me and smiled again, but I could tell it was forced. I could tell this whole 'everything is okay' persona was forced. Saria just didn't want to get hurt again, and I could understand that. If I hadn't been so insistent and callous towards her in the beginning, maybe she'd feel differently. In any such case, I decided to change the subject.
This is making her feel uncomfortable, I thought, I can tell.
"Where's my tunic?" I asked, and stepped back.
Saria crossed her arms over her chest and frowned.
"That filthy thing?" she replied. "I washed it out. It took me two hours last night to get all the blood out. It's probably dry now."
I looked at her thankfully and nodded, her spunk had returned.
"Well, can I have it?" I asked, not knowing if I should or not.
Saria looked at me like I was crazy.
"Before you have a bath?" she said incredulous. "No! You're going to wash your soon to be royal behind just like anyone else."
I was taken aback, I had no reply to that.
I think I need to reiterate that partially, I thought, it looks like her spunk has returned in full effect.
"Besides," she said, narrowing her eyes seductively at me all of a sudden, "I prefer you much better without a shirt on. I get to look at those rippling pectorals and those monster crossbows you're packing for arms. You are just a total stud, aren't you?"
I looked at her surprised at the outright flirting. I knew she had playful intentions, but my eyes widened and my cheeks flushed anyway.
Really? I thought in disbelief. I can't handle one compliment from this woman without turning red?
"Uh… thanks?" I replied, not knowing what else to say.
Saria took a step towards me and bit her lower lip.
"Come on, puff out your chest," she requested all of a sudden.
I looked at her like she was crazy.
"What?" I asked.
She groaned and rolled her eyes.
"Come on, just do it!" she said. "Stop being so bloody serious all the time."
I sighed, thinking peer pressure would have gotten easier with age, it seemed I was wrong.
Give the woman what she wants, I thought, but I had to admit she was coaxing my ego as well.
I stood erect, and effectively puffed my chest out.
"There," I said, "are you happy now?"
Saria nodded.
"That's what I'm talking about!" she said with enthusiasm. "You're the First Knight of Hyrule, you should wear that proudly! Chest out, shoulders back, knees straight, ten hut damn it! You're the man!"
I tried fighting it, but she did make me laugh with that statement. There was something about her quirky, lighthearted nature that I found very refreshing. I even kept the chest puff going.
"How about that?" I asked, flexing my pecks. "Does that look good?"
"There you go, now you're in touch with your inner peacock," she went on, "every knight should be in touch with their inner peacock."
I continued to grin at her, and shook my head at her silliness.
"Really?" I replied. "My inner peacock?"
"Yes, really," she said, "you'd do well to remember that, anyway I'm glad we had this talk."
I smiled at her.
"So, you're ending the discussion?" I said to her. "Okay, well I got news for you." I replied, knowing what I was about to tell her wasn't really news at all.
Saria raised her eyebrows and looked at me with expectance.
"What?" she asked.
"I'm not a knight anymore," I divulged.
Saria fanned the comment off.
"You will be again," she said with confidence.
I raised my eyebrows, and grinned at her.
"Do you know something I don't?" I asked.
Saria shrugged and teetered playfully on her heels.
"Maybe," she replied.
I nodded, staring into her pretty eyes.
"I see," I said, thinking nothing of it.
Saria stared back for a moment. It was a deep tender stare.
"I really do think you're wonderful Link," she said to me in a moment of seriousness, "and no matter what happens, I'm glad you came to me for help."
I looked at her slightly taken aback at the seriousness of her words. However, before I could respond, she caught herself and she balled her fists up. She then placed them side by side each other, and stretched out her arms in front of me.
What's she doing? I wondered.
"Uh..." I trailed, and gave her an offhanded stare.
Saria grinned.
"I think we said what we needed to say," she said, "and to make it official, I think we should end it with a fist bump."
Is she serious? I thought.
"A fist bump?" I repeated, looking at her outstretched arms.
I chuckled at her, but Saria kept her face completely staid.
"What is so funny?" she replied. "I'm dead serious."
She's very charming in her own way, I thought.
I shrugged, not questioning her actions further, balled up my fists, and effectively bumped hers.
"Alright!" she said, raising her arms in the air when it was over. "I think Mr. Killjoy is almost dead!"
I shook my head when she said that.
Was I that serious when I first met her? I wondered, then stared at her for a moment. She's trying so hard to make things okay between us. The reality is, I should be doing this.
"Uh…" I began, wanting to match her enthusiasm, "death to Mr. Killjoy!"
Saria smiled immediately, and put her hands on her hips in disbelief.
"Who are you, and what have you done to the real Link?" she asked rhetorically. "Because you can't be him, he would never kill Mr. Killjoy."
I chuckled again.
I guess she has a point, I thought.
She smiled at me genuinely for a moment, and stroked a hand through her hair.
"It's good to hear you laugh," she said softly, then turned and headed for the door. "Alright, Hylian bass and cuckoo eggs await!"
I watched her as she left.
"Hey Saria," I called to her.
She turned and looked at me in expectance.
"Hmm?" she moaned.
I smiled at her.
"Thanks," I said.
Saria smiled back.
"You're welcome," she replied, "call me if you need me."
I stared into her eyes and nodded.
"I will," I said, but I had to catch my tone.
Saria either didn't catch it, or ignored it, in any such case, she took her leave. I grinned at the closed door, then got up to get ready for the day. I cleaned up the mess on the table first, before washing up and getting dressed. After being nearly chastised by Saria, I made sure I was extra cleansed, and shaved even though I didn't necessarily need to.
Better to be safe than sorry, I thought, checking my appearance in the mirror.
After I was sure I looked okay, I headed downstairs. Saria was in the small kitchen pouring Lon Lon milk in a cup and had my breakfast ready for me: Hylian bass and boiled cuckoo eggs like she promised. I sat down and ate with her but looked around surprised that it was only the two of us there. The old man who owned the Sea Side Laboratory was very senile, or at least he seemed that way, however, he was extremely brilliant. He developed medicines for ophthalmic use, and though he seemed like the studious type, it was rare for him to be away.
This is strange, even for him, I thought.
"Where's the old man?" I asked Saria.
She raised her eyebrows and shrugged at my question.
"He said he was going to be gone for a few days," she replied, "he said something about doing further research on the giant Goron he cured a few years back."
I paused and grinned, remembering the scavenger hunt to get that Goron his eye drops.
I wonder how he's doing, I pondered.
"What's so funny?" she asked, picking up our plates and washing them out once we were done.
I shook my head, and got up from the table to help her dry the dishes.
"Nothing," I said absently, putting the ceramic ware away, and throwing down the rag on the counter.
Saria sighed, and dried her hands off.
"So, what now?" she asked me.
I took in a deep breath.
That's a good question, I thought.
"I need a place to stay for a few days," I said to her honestly, "you can say no, but you'd be really helping me out if you said yes."
Saria gave me an offhanded look, and playfully pushed my shoulder.
"Of course you can stay," she replied, "and for as long as you need to."
I sighed in relief at her saying that.
"You know you're putting yourself at risk for aiding a fugitive, right?" I stated. "If the risk is too high, then I don't want you doing this."
Saria looked at me serious.
"I knew what the risks were when I opened that door and took you in this morning," she replied. "It's okay, I want to help you."
I stared into her eyes gratefully.
"Thanks," I said, but then I remembered this wasn't her residence, "what about the old man?" I asked.
Saria shook her head.
"Don't worry about him," she said to me, "he'll be gone for awhile."
I took in a deep breath in relief.
"If the guard comes asking about me, don't worry I 'll leave," I said, "I won't be an unnecessary burden to you."
Saria nodded, then a puzzled expression came across her face.
"What about your horse?" she asked. "You might want to call for her only when you need her."
I raised an eyebrow, and looked at her impressed with her foresight.
"That's a good idea," I said.
"So, what are you going to do today?" she asked me.
I thought about that, knowing I needed to square some important matters away.
"...Go see the Deku Tree..." the assassin's voice echoed through my mind just then.
"Well," I said, "I need to see the guardian of the forest."
Saria turned and looked at me eager suddenly.
"You're going to see the Deku Tree?" she asked surprised. "Can I go with you?"
I grinned at her, and would have loved to have taken her with me, but it was too dangerous. If she was seen with me, she would have been jailed instantly.
I won't allow that to happen, I thought, she's done enough for me by helping me and taking me in.
"I'm a fugitive right now," I stated, "if I get caught I'm going back to jail, and you will too if you're with me."
Saria sighed disappointed and looked away.
"I see your point," she said.
I put my hands on her shoulders and tried to reassure her.
"I'll find out what the Deku Tree is keeping from you, and come back and tell you everything, okay?" I promised.
Saria tried to smile and nodded.
"Okay," she replied, looking away from me.
She really wants some answers, I thought, well, I don't blame her.
I was about to give her a hug, when all of a sudden she cried out in agony and bent over.
"Ah!" she cried.
She gripped her head in pain.
I looked at her stunned.
What in the-? I thought.
"Saria!" I said in alarm.
I tried to take hold of her so she won't fall, but she wrestled out of my grip.
"No!" she said to me. "Let me do it!"
Saria went, sat back down at the table, and rested her head between her legs as she did before. However, this time there was another symptom. Her whole body began to flicker and look translucent, it was only for a few seconds, but it looked as though she were disappearing.
"Oh my goddess!" I said in panic. "What the hell...?"
Saria cried out for a few moments more, and then the pain finally subsided. When it was over, she looked away from me embarrassed. I stared at her in disbelief.
"Are you alright?" I asked, placing my hand on her shoulder.
She just nodded, and wouldn't look at me.
What the hell is going on here? I thought.
I swallowed hard.
"You-you were disappearing," I said to her, stating the obvious.
It was dumb, but I didn't know what else to say.
"I noticed," she said sarcastic, running her fingers through her hair.
I understood her irritation.
"How?" I asked. "Why?"
Saria shook her head and shrugged her shoulders.
"I don't know," she replied.
I pursed my lips together at hearing that.
What in Farore's name happened to her? I thought.
We were silent for a moment and I went to kneel down in front of her in her seat. Saria was looking down at her hands and trembling slightly. I couldn't blame her, that would have been a terrifying experience for anybody. I reached up and stroked my hand over her cheek, and immediately she jumped up and pushed away from me. I looked at her shocked.
What's this? I wondered.
Saria took several stumbling steps back away from me. She looked scared. I didn't know what to say. I didn't understand why she was reacting this way.
"Saria-" I started concerned.
"Please, just go," she interrupted me all of a sudden.
I looked at her surprised.
What is all this about? I wondered. Why did she jump like that?
I took a step towards her.
"I'm worried about you," I said in honesty, "I want to make sure you're okay."
Saria stared into my eyes, but then cut her gaze short.
"I'm fine," she replied.
Okay, now she's lying, I thought.
"Saria-" I tried.
"I'm fine Link!" she snapped. "Just please... just go!"
I looked at her, not satisfied with what she was telling me.
She's hiding something from me, I thought, I don't know what it is, but she's definitely keeping something from me.
I took another step towards her, but this time she took a step back. I paused when I saw her do that. I took in a frustrated sigh when I realized she was going to be difficult, and decided to leave the matter alone.
I won't get anything out of her like this, I thought, it's best just to leave it alone and come back to it when she's ready.
"When you're ready to tell me you will, won't you?" I asked her softly.
Saria nodded, but I couldn't tell if she was being sincere or not.
Come on Sar, I thought, talk to me.
She stroked her hands through her beautiful hair and tried to smile.
"Don't worry, I'm tough," she tried to joke.
I looked at her serious.
I am worried though, I thought, but tried not to make a big deal about it for her sake.
I went up to her and took her in my arms anyway, and gave her a tight secure hug. I noticed it took her a few moments to hug me back.
What's going on Saria? I wondered.
When I pulled away, she wouldn't look at me again.
"We'll talk later," I said, more as a promise than a request, "okay."
She only nodded.
Having to be satisfied with that, I told her to be safe and headed out the house to Kokiri Forest.
I had a long overdue appointment with the Deku Tree.
Please write a review and tell me what you think. The next chapter will be up later this week.