Dawn was upon us, sunlight streaming through the windows and planks of wood in my cozy tree house. The birds chirped softly and the sound of nature surrounded me as I ate my breakfast. The famous Kakariko sourdough tasted amazing as usual, even more so because it was my last loaf. The Hyrule mail man, whose name I can not remember, brought a letter to Mayor Bo with the last goods shipment. Kakariko was no longer going to be trading with us, or anyone for that matter. He didn't say why, he gave everyone their mail, wished us luck and left. Everyone was devastated when Mayor Bo read it out to everyone. Everyone was so devastated because they were our only trading partner. The Zoras, too far north, and castle town being the more industrial of all the provinces. We were in trouble and everyone knew it. Tough times were ahead of us.
I poured myself more of the Castle Town green tea that Rusl got me for my 17th birthday, which was just last week. I hope this lasts until Im 40. It tastes like a warm summery day. Sunshiny and sweet. I took a warming sip, and felt as it trickled down my throat and warmed my stomach. It was a peaceful morning, and I was thoroughly enjoyed every second.
"HEY LINK." A loud, strong voice called to me, startling me from my peaceful mood. I looked out the window to see Fado, the village rancher. He was a very tall man, muscularly built from days herding goats. His skin was deep, as if he was made of Kakariko dark chocolate. "The goats are giving me grief today. I know today is your day off but do you mind helping today?" He called up with a smile. I nodded starting to head down, but Fado called to my attention once more.
"Hey uh...where's Epona?" he asked, scratching the back on his thick neck. I looked out the window, at the little groove that I usually kept my trusty stead, but she was not there, nor was she nibbling on the grass. Illia must have taken her. God damn she's my horse Illia. I just about turned my house upside down looking for my sandals, shoving them on my feet and rushing out my door. I told Fado I'd meet him at the ranch in a little bit. I looked at the entrance to the path that lead to Hyrule field and Faron woods.
I walked it slowly, taking in the shady hood of the green trees, and the sound of singing birds. Ordon province was very beautiful, rural and calm. Every once and awhile we got travelers looking for a place to relax. And Castle town soldiers looking for some peace. Sometimes we got people who got attacked on the fields. Sometimes we couldn't save them. My little village is very isolated now that I think about it.
As I neared the Ordon spring, I could hear a soft voice speaking to someone. I voice was airy and wise and sweet. Comforting. I heard Epona stomping in the water playfully, and the voice giggling. I reached the gate and was greeted with the sight of Illia. I smiled as she reacxhed up to stroke my horse's muzzle softly. Illia was a small girl, skinny with small hips and breasts, with clothing that hugged her body. She never wore shoes. "Why wear shoes when you can wriggle your toes in the grass?" She is a free spirit. Illia had brown, silvery hair. It was hard to describe given that it was such a unique color. She had bright green eyes that contrasted against her pale grey skin, and a smile that lit up the world. She was wading in the shallow water, petting Epona with a loving smile. Illia was humming a made up tune as she turned to face me. She smiled. I smiled back.
"Hi Link," She said in her soft timid voice. "I uh..washed Epona for you. For your journey.." she shyly. It was no secret that she fancied me. And I fancied her as well. She was the only other girl in the village who's my age, and she's amazing. Funny, smart, compassionate, beautiful. But...we have yet to become an item. We're both far too shy to admit our feelings to each other. Rusl says if I care about her, I have to "Man up and tell her! If you can calmly fight of bokoblins, you can ask her out."
I smiled at Illia and nodded to her. She twiddled her thumbs and blushed. Seeing her blush always made my heart quicken a little, she was..cute when she blushed. The way her cheeks and nose turned a rosy pink and made her look so...innocent. Just like she was.
"Well..I need to head over to the Ranch...So..I'll be taking Epona." I said quietly. I didn't like talking much. "Thank you for washing Epona for me.." I added. Illia smiled and waved me off as I rode Epona to the Ranch.