"Wake up sleepy head."
Link groaned and attempted to dive deeper into his pillow.
"Hey, wake up."
"Too early," he mumbled, half dead. Link was always one to get up early at home, but with all the traveling he did recently, he hadn't really gotten much sleep. A nice bed with a soft mattress was better than he deserved.
"You're gonna miss school," Kristi giggled as she tried to wake the sleeping blonde.
"No I won't mom," Link joked back turning over on his back and grabbed the pretty girl. He pulled her onto the bed and wrapped her in his arms.
"I thought you were tired," she mused.
"I think I have enough energy for morning activities," Link grinned.
"Well I hope you do, 'cause the tournament is starting in about twenty minutes."
"Oh fuck!" Link cursed as he shoved her off him and jumped out of bed.
"Yeah that's what I thought," Kristi laughed as she laid back on the bed.
"I never sleep this late." Link quickly darted out the bedroom door.
Kristi hopped off the bed and walked into the living room. Link was undressed down to just his underwear.
"And he has a nice ass," Kristi observed, "Tell me what isn't perfect about you?"
Link grinned widely. "I'll tell you as soon as I discover it myself."
Kristi slapped her forehead. "Oh right, the ego."
Link laughed as he pulled up his white tights. Then his skin-tight white undershirt.
"Oh tights, real manly," Kristi commented as she walked more towards the center of the room.
"Hey, this is the official warrior uniform for Ordon," Link told her as he slipped on his green tunic over everything else. He stepped into his boots while he grabbed his hat. "It even comes with a pointy hat," he smiled as he placed the hat on his head.
Kristi covered her laugh with a hand. "If I saw anyone else wearing this I'd think they were crazy. But for some reason when you put it on, it just works."
"Well, glad it does," Link grabbed his sword off the table and slipped it on his back. He made sure to fasten the front perfectly tight, so it wouldn't slide at all.
"You wearing this the whole time?"
Link paused and thought for a moment. "I don't really know. I want everyone to know I'm from Ordon, although I think that task is already complete. But I only have one uniform. So if it gets all ripped up, I'll probably just wear something else. It doesn't really matter much after today."
"Hmm." Kristi leaned on the wall and crossed her arms over her stomach as she watched.
Link checked the hidden sword and sheath attached to the inside of his shield. He withdrew the blade and admired its beautiful dark shine. He slid it back in the sheath attached to the shield, which he then placed on his back, over his sword. He grabbed a smaller dagger and slipped it into his boot. Finally, he grabbed his arm guards and slipped those on as well.
"How many weapons do you have?" Kristi was astonished by the amount he carried at once.
"You never know what will happen in battle," Link explained.
"So, you ready to go," Kristi asked as she opened the door.
"You coming?" Link raised an eyebrow.
"Well you don't have anyone to maintain your waiting box right?"
"My what?"
"You don't know?" Kristi gave Link a questioning look.
"Apparently I don't." Link stepped out the door. "Care to explain.
Kristi locked the door behind her and slipped the key in her cleavage like before.
"Maybe you should wear something with pockets," Link suggested.
"Being a woman automatically gives you a pocket," She smiled and brushed past Link.
Link watched as she walked down the stairs. Her long dark blue dress swayed as she walked. She gave a meaningful look over her shoulder at him.
"You coming?"
"Just explain what you said earlier," Link replied, walking down the steps.
Kristi smiled and continued walking as she explained. "Every competitor gets a little area for themselves. Kind of like a bench. This is because usually a competitor has a team or a master with them. You happen to be by yourself, so I am going to be your coach."
"Oh you are?" Link chuckled.
"Yup," she hopped around and faced him putting her fists up. "I know how to fight."
Link put up his hands open to her. Kristi punched his hands a couple times, bouncing on her feet.
"But the trick to fighting," Kristi punched his hands a couple more times, "Is when…they least expect it…you…kick him in the balls!"
Link's face fell and he quickly jumped back.
Kristi laughed, "I'm not going to actually do it."
"Well hell if I know, don't joke with that kind of stuff."
"Come on, you don't want to be late."
"I can bring Epona right?" Link asked the brunette.
She nodded, "Yeah, I'll take good care of her during your fights."
"I'll fight safely knowing that," Link grinned.
Link grabbed Epona and they all walked onto the street. It was definitely hustling and bustling. Everyone was rushing all in one direction: to the stadium to see the tournament. Kristi was leading Link, since although it was fairly easy to figure out where to go, it would be better for someone who was used to the streets.
"So how big is the stadium?" Link asked curiously.
"Shouldn't you be, like, focusing or something," Kristi glanced over her shoulder.
"No need," Link answered seriously. "Maybe a little later."
"You are definitely different from other fighters."
"Oh?" Link raised an eyebrow. "Do all fighters stay at your apartment?"
Kristi laughed and shook her head. "No, just you."
"Oh, I'm loved."
"But to answer your question, the stadium is pretty big. The seats rise up like a Colosseum style. They are in a 'U' shape, and the one empty side is the royal seating area. It is a roofed in box that sits close to the floor so they can get the best view."
"Sounds great."
"Hey Link," Kristi sent a glance over her shoulder. "Does everyone always make a clear path for you?"
Link didn't notice this time, but everyone was veering off to the side of the street to let him pass.
"Yeah, it tends to happen." Link shrugged.
"You're going to lose today Ordonian!" Someone shouted.
"Thanks for the support!" Link called back with a wave. "Always glad to meet a fan."
The two teens carried on until they finally made it to the tournament grounds. All the spectators had to pay to get in, but Link and Kristi were let in at another gate.
"Your box is marked," A soldier told them.
Link nodded his thanks and they were on their way. Link found it incredible that they were still walking on stone. The thought of a whole city just resting on stone was impressive to Link. He might not enjoy the city atmosphere, but he had to admit it took a lot of work and skill to built the place.
They were soon walking between little shed like contraptions. They were all built out of wooden planks nailed together. There were spaces between the planks so you could see into each little box. There were many fighters going over their weapons. In others, the masters would be giving last second advice to their warrior.
After a long search, they found the one marked Ordonian. It was – to both their surprises –close to the front of the arena. It was just one row back from the front.
The stands did not reach the bottom all the way around the U. Only the center part touched bottom where people could get up on them. The two side ones had empty space on the bottom, besides the supports to hold them up. This way the competitors waiting to go could watch the fights.
Link could see the stands already almost filled. "This is amazing."
"It sure is," Kristi told him. "Now just don't choke."
Link chuckled arrogantly, "Oh don't worry about that. I am more worried about getting my tunic stained with all the tomatoes they are going to throw when I win."
"The contestants to the stage please!" A loud voice called out.
All the fighters in the other boxes rose and made their way to the stage.
"Be right back," Link told Kristi before following the others.
He stepped into line with the others as he walked underneath the one section of the stands. The stand's center was to his left and the royal box to his right. The stage was made out of thick stone. He walked up the stairs and could see the lines of where the stones were placed next to each other. They were enormous pieces of cut rock placed skillfully and tightly next to each other. It was completely even, not one piece out of place. It was definitely impressive craftsmanship.
He listened to the roaring crowd. The fans were screaming, and more kept coming in through the entrances too. There was no doubt the place would be filled.
The fighters managed to get into long rows and all face the royal box. It was empty for now so Link looked up and down the lines.
He saw only one Goron. That was good news for him, hopefully he wouldn't have to worry about him. He towered over everyone in the lines. He must've been big in Goron means as well. He looked content on being the tallest among everyone else there. Link knew that he might be the hardest to beat. He wore black, spiked armor, and it was intimidating to say the least.
Link continued looking and he saw a couple Zoras spread throughout. He saw Piscis and Ralis standing next to each other. Piscis looked stoic, as Link figured he always was. Ralis looked a little excited to be there, but kept a princely demeanor by staying calm.
Everyone else were normal Hylians and Hyrulians. They had all types of weapons, from spears, to swords, from curved short-blades, to giant battle-axes. Link saw it all and he couldn't wait to fight.
There was even one man who was all bandaged up, and Link could only compare him to what looked like a ninja.
"There's quite a bunch of interesting characters here, huh?" Link directed at the man next to him.
The man turned and opened his mouth to reveal no tongue.
Link faced back forward, "And you're one."
"Silence!" There was a man standing in the royal box. He was fairly fat and dressed in royal garments. He had an obvious blonde wig on. His voice was remarkably loud however. "Silence for the King!" he demanded, and after a couple of seconds everyone went silent. An impressive task with the amount of people in the stands.
"All rise for the King, the Queen, and the Princess!" he announced.
Everyone did as told and watched in awe as the royal family entered.
The King's smile was wide, almost to his ears and showing all of his teeth. He came in waving one hand and everyone cheered. He was wearing normal kingly attire, with the main colors being red and blue. He wore a cape, of course. What king wouldn't? He sat down in his throne and continued to smile at the crowd who couldn't get enough of him.
The Queen was also smiling and looked happier than Link ever saw her before. She was wearing black mostly and Link couldn't help but think it fit. Her smile was thin and narrow, like her face. She waved to her subjects with a twist of the wrist. She sat elegantly at her husbands left, to everyone else's right.
Then the Princess entered. Her smile was like pearls and she waved earnestly to everyone, looking truly happy to be here. Link had to keep his mouth shut and his thoughts from straying to rude ideas. But the sheer beauty of the one girl was obvious to everyone in the stands. Her long golden hair was perfectly flowing behind her, except for two loops from the front, guided into the blue hairpiece she was wearing and then went to the sides of her head. Her blue, white, and gold dress fit her perfectly, showing off her shoulders and her waist. The waist was perfect to any man in the world and Link never cared for a woman's shoulders as much as he had for Zelda.
Link only wished she wore something besides fancy dresses all the time. He couldn't fully picture her body. A task that was growing on his mind more and more.
The King rose back to his feet and held out his hands. The roars from the crowd slowly dulled until there was complete silence again. The king smiled at all around him.
"Today is my daughter's eighteenth birthday!" His voice was loud and booming.
The crowd roared in cheers as well as some of the contestants in the lines. Link just watched as the Princess sat and waved once again. She seemed so relaxed and at ease, but Link had the feeling she was anything but. The Queen looked to be soaking up all the attention and drinking the commoner's praise. Link couldn't imagine the Princess thinking along those lines. She was too modest in Link's eyes to want all this for herself.
"So fight valiantly!" The King continued his speech. "Fight to show your pride for Hyrule. Fight to show your own pride! I want to see everyone's best out there! I know you all wish to impress the crowd," the King added at the end, earning a few chuckles, which from a crowd was still a roar.
"So let us begin!" He shouted and took his seat. The crowd erupted in applause and screams.
"Everyone please clear the stage!" The announcer's voice boomed over the roars again. He stood by the King's side in the box now.
Everyone did as told. Link sauntered his way back to his little bench. Kristi was standing there smiling at him.
"Hey you didn't take a charge at the King. I'm impressed."
"Their box is elevated, hard to reach him." Link sat on the bench in his box and leaned back. "So do I just sit here until they call my name?"
"I think so," Kristi shrugged and sat next to him.
"Ladies and Gentlemen!" the announcer could be heard clearly. "The first battle is about to begin! William Silverlane and Link of Ordon please enter the stage."
Kristi raised her eyebrows in shock. "That was quick." She stood up and turned to Link. "Why don't you give them your last name?"
"Don't have one," Link answered simply. "In Ordon you are known by your father's name. We aren't big on famous families. I'm sure William Silverlance is from a mighty rich family. Bunch of fucking queers. He better be some damn strong knight."
Link stood up and brushed past Kristi.
"Hey don't get hurt out there too much, okay?" Kristi told him sounding slightly worried.
Link coolly waved over his shoulder without looking behind him. "I'll be back in a couple of minutes."
"Hey boy," another fighter sitting in his own area called out. "You are supposed to be on the stage already."
"How was I supposed to know I was going?" Link answered nonchalantly as he walked past.
"There's a giant board with all the competitors and who they fight." He slapped his forehead dramatically. "Oh, you can't read. My apologizes."
Link smiled nicely at him. "Can't wait 'till I fight you."
Link walked underneath the stands and made his way up to the stage. The crowd shouted taunts and jeers at him as he walked. Some creative and political with slight historical knowledge involved. Others a simple 'you suck'.
Link lost the smile on his face. It wasn't the jeers, it was simply him starting to concentrate. But when his eyes laid upon his opponent, he couldn't help but feel at ease once again.
There was a young man, only a couple of years older than Link himself. He was dressed in the royal army armor. Except his helmet was nowhere to be seen, so Link figured he wasn't going to wear it. He had blonde hair falling to his shoulders and his little smile was perfect. A pretty boy, just as Link thought.
Link trudged to the center and stood about ten feet away from William Silverlance. What a nice sounding name, rolls right off the tongue. No doubt belonging to some rich and noble family.
The young man eyed Link up and down before facing the royal box.
"For you, my Princess!" He yelled holding up his sword.
He held it there, and after a second glanced over at Link.
"Oh." Link stared at the Princess to see her staring back right at him. Their eyes connected and Link hesitated his little pledge. "For you…my Princess." It came out awkwardly for sure, and there could be laughter heard in the crowd.
Zelda smiled sweetly though, and he didn't care about the others. She nodded her head, while looking at Link.
William and Link faced each other. He looked arrogantly proud.
"She nodded at me," Link smirked.
"At the end of this match-" William got himself in a battle ready stance. "-She will nod at your crippled body on the ground."
"Oh that was creative," Link clapped his hands. He still had all his weapons sheathed and not one drawn. "I mean with the dramatic weapon set too, simply amazing."
"I will keep that sly tongue of yours at bay," he hissed.
"I don't even wanna know what you mean," Link looked disgusted.
"Warriors ready!" the announcer shouted. "…Begin!"
William charged Link with a battle cry. He swung his sword horizontally at Link. Link reached out and caught the hilt of the blade with his left hand. He gripped William's hand tightly so he couldn't pull back. William then threw his left shield arm in a wide arc to try and bash Link away.
Link caught his shield in his hand as well.
In one swift move Link spread his arms wide causing William's to spread as well. Then Link suddenly, and unexpectedly, smashed his head into William's. The pretty blonde crumpled to the ground unconscious.
The stands were silent as the fight ended in a matter of seconds. Link squatted down and poked the blonde in the cheek. He stood back up and shrugged to the royal box before making his way back to his own box.
"Winner…Link!" the announcer shouted, still slightly flabbergasted.
The crowds immediately roared in their displeasure and Link couldn't possibly smile anymore.
The announcer raised his hands for the crowd to settle down again. "The next battle is between Kyle, son of Roy and first regiment knight in the King's royal army…and Link of Ordon."
A massive cheer rang throughout the stadium as Link froze on the steps. They had him going twice in a row. That was low of them. Even if he wasn't tired in the least from the last battle, if even considered one, it still showed how unfavorable he was there.
He turned around and made his way back to the center of the stage. The people just managed to get the unconscious William Silverlance off the stage before he saw another soldier enter the arena. He looked almost identical to the first, just black hair this time. He carried what looked to be a heavy spear. It had a dark wooden shaft with a silver blade at the end.
They met in the center and turned to the royal box.
"To you my Princess!" Kyle shouted.
Everyone waited on Link once again.
"Hey you think you can change my title," Link addressed causally.
"Excuse me," the announcer replied.
"Well, it's incorrect," Link crossed his arms and looked down at the ground in fake thought. "It would be nice if you could correct it." Link looked back up.
The announcer grinded his teeth together, "Oh? And what do you wish to be titled? The Wolf of Ordon."
"Oh that was funny," Link replied hotly. "Really got me going there. Where do you Castle Town people come up with your great humor?"
"You arrogant little-"
"Bailey," the King cut him off.
"Sorry my King, I apologize." He bowed quickly. "The boy wants to change his title, my King."
"I know," The King leaned on his elbow. "I was right here."
"Sorry, my King." The announcer bowed again.
"It really is a simple request," Zelda put in her own opinion in the matter.
"Well what does he want the title to be?" Bailey looked disgruntled since he was made to be the bad guy out.
"What about," The King eyed Link, "Link…son of Conall."
Link narrowed his eyes. "I do not know how you have come about my father's name, but…that is the title I would prefer."
"Very well," The announcer agreed. "But just start the fight already, I'll say it next time."
"Thank you," Link turned to face Kyle. Forgetting his pledge he turned back to Zelda. "For you, my Princess." He said it calmly and sincerely.
They faced each other and the announcer shouted for them to commence.
Kyle slowly started sidestepping to circle Link. Link just turned around in his spot watching him.
"You plan on not drawing your weapon for me as well?" Kyle cautiously spoke.
Link shrugged, "Let's see how you do first before I make promises."
"Your arrogance will be your downfall," Kyle stated.
"There's arrogance and then there is insight to one's own skill." Link smiled mischievously. "Now which one am I doing, I wonder?"
Kyle took two steps in and made for a powerful lunge with his spear. Link easily stepped to the side and dodged. With his god-like agility, he stepped up to Kyle and landed his fist right into his jaw. Kyle stumbled backwards and fell on the ground as Link grabbed the spear that he threw upwards in his collapse.
Link held the point at Kyle's neck on the ground. An impressive feat with only one arm when considering the weight of the weapon. "I wonder what's worse? Getting beat when I don't use any weapons, or when I use your own?"
"I yield," he angrily admitted defeat.
"Damn right," Link dropped the spear and turned around. He walked back off the stage half expecting to be called right away again.
Luckily they didn't and he made it all the way back to his box and sat down on the bench.
Kristi handed him a wooden cup filled with water. "Tired?"
Link laughed, "I shouldn't have gotten out of bed for this." He took the cup from Kristi, "Hey, where is good food around here? I haven't had anything this morning."
He stood up but Kristi pushed him back down. "No, no, this is why I'm here. I'll go get you some bread. You can't pig out before you fight."
"This isn't even fighting," Link complained.
Kristi patted him on the head. "Well doesn't this mean they took you as a serious contender if they didn't give you the hardest people?"
Link shrugged, "Maybe."
Kristi skipped backwards, "Stay positive." She turned around and Link watched as she briskly walked away from the stadium.
Link leaned back and sipped his water. He could see fairly well the competition from where he was. He could only see one side, so if the competitors went to the far side, they would be blocked. He didn't care too much; he didn't hear a name he recognized yet. Maybe if a name that didn't sound like a royal prick popped up he would go and get a better view, but he just heard soldiers and knights going one after another. Their fights lasted much longer than Link's. The people roared and cheered just enjoying the tournament as a whole.
The one thing Link did notice, was how every time the combatants said their pledge, they screamed it. As loud as they could as if the loudest would win the Princess' heart. They just sounded completely dumb. To scream something like that, it was just wrong.
"Hey."
Link saw Kristi walk back with a basket full of hot bread.
"That smells so good," Link whistled as picked one out of the basket.
"Just made," Kristi sat down next to him and munched on her own bread. "Hey, so I checked the board."
"Oh, do we know when I go next?" Link asked as he took a big bite out of the bread.
"You still have some time," Kristi answered. "Going twice in a row kinda gave you more time in the end."
"Hmm, maybe it wasn't a bad thing then," Link thought out loud.
"Maybe not," Kristi agreed.
"Zelda are you enjoying yourself?" The King asked as two soldiers unskillfully fought each other, missing blocks and swings left and right.
"Yes, father." Zelda watched the fight with boredom, simply waiting for the next one to start.
The King laughed, "You just want to see the Ordonian again, don't you?"
Zelda rolled her eyes, something she'd only do to her father. "He has a name."
"Ah yes, Link." The King nodded. "A very good name."
Zelda tilted her head towards her father. "How did you know his father's name?"
"Much too long of a story for now, dear," The King replied. "Oh look, one yielded," The king pointed out. "Thank the heavens." He clapped politely as they bowed to each other and backed off the platform.
"Your majesty," an elite guard announced behind the King. "Queen Rutela has arrived."
"Ah, wonderful!" The King cheered as he leaped up from his chair. He turned around and faced the Zora Queen.
She elegantly stepped forward. She looked to have almost golden hair – if Zoras had hair – as it shined in waves. Her body was beautiful with the curves running all the way down. Her skin could've been mistaken for an ornate dress she was wearing. Her golden necklace had various ruby stones placed in it. Her grayish golden eyes shone with years of wisdom and experience. Zelda knew she was an extremely gorgeous Zora.
"King Tyrell," Queen Rutela waltzed up to him as graceful as a dancer. She professional embraced him in a hug and they kissed each other's cheek.
The Queen also rose, "Rutela," She smiled.
"Victoria," The Zora queen greeted her the same way as the King.
Zelda now rose and bowed gracefully. "I am so glad you could make it. I hope the trip wasn't long."
"Oh, how polite," Rutela laughed. "You have rivers connecting to your castle, it was not long at all."
"Oh, surely you didn't swim yourself?" Zelda looked shocked. "That is a long swim."
"I enjoy it, my dear," Rutela smiled. "Besides, a lady must stay in her best form. Too bad males don't seem to have the same belief."
"How true," Queen Victoria laughed.
"I feel this topic is turning for the worse," the King whispered to Bailey.
"It is indeed," the announcer agreed.
Both men looked down at their guts hanging out.
"Okay, the competitors are waiting," the King announced changing the subject.
The three females nodded and took their seats. Queen Rutela sat down and settled herself in one of the thrones behind the others.
"Well don't let me stop you anymore, please continue."
That's just what they did. The tournament started up with very plain soldiers taking the stage once again.
"Has my son fought yet?" Queen Rutela asked.
"No, he hasn't," the King answered.
"What about Piscis?" the Queen pressed. "Goddesses worry about him sometimes."
The King laughed. "He has only been a perfect guard so far."
"Well, that's good."
The fights continued until it was finally the Zora prince's turn. He stepped up confidently into the center. He was facing a knight wielding an ax. It wasn't a giant ax but large enough to lop a head off.
"Oh my," Zelda turned to Rutela. "I do hope he's okay."
"If Piscis trained him properly then he should be fine."
She sounded confident but Zelda didn't miss her tighten her hold on her throne.
"Begin!"
The man with the ax took a step and swung his weapon heavily. Ralis ducked under it and danced around the man. He growled and swung it strongly again. Ralis just quickly darted away. He used his quickness knowing his strength wasn't close to equal of the knight's.
After a minute of dodging the Prince began to understand his enemy's limits. He waited for another swing and darted behind the man. He climbed up his back and the man spun around to try and get him off. Ralis held on and crawled over the man's head. He let himself fall in front of him but wrapped his legs around the man's neck. When the prince's hands touched the ground he flung the knight over him, effectively smashing his head into the ground.
Not wasting any time, he scurried over to the man lying on the ground and held his saber at his throat.
The man let out a sigh, "You win Prince, well fought."
Zelda watched out of the corner of her eye to see the Zora Queen release her death grip on the chair. She smiled to herself for the care Ralis' mother had. It made Zelda wonder if her mother thought the same way of her.
"Your son fought well."
Everyone in the royal box quickly turned around at the new voice.
"…Ganondorf." The King blinked in surprise. He quickly rose and embraced the man in a hug. "I didn't expect you here, you said you couldn't come."
The tall, dark-toned man shrugged. "The issue resolved itself so I could manage the time."
"What issue was that?" The King asked.
"There was a boar that escaped," Ganondorf sat down next to Rutela in the back row.
"Oh yes," King Terrell nodded. "I remember you telling us to be on the look out."
"Well, apparently it was slain in Ordon," Ganondorf rested on his elbow.
"Your men traveled that far?" The King raised an eyebrow.
Ganondorf sighed. "They did, but they didn't kill it. Apparently an Ordonian killed it. So no harm done in the end."
"No harm done," Zelda raised her voice as she jumped to her feat. "Your recklessness on your own beast almost killed a small Ordonian child."
Ganondorf didn't look phased by Zelda's outburst. "What was a child doing in the woods? It seems Ordon has to take better care of their children."
"You're blaming this on the child?" Zelda huffed.
"Princess Zelda!" The Queen's voice was sharp. "Sit down and show some respect. Lord Ganondorf couldn't control the beast. There was bound to be some injuries."
"What's done is done," The King said trying to settle the situation. "The important thing is that the beast is slain and you are here Ganondorf."
Ganondorf sat up, "What interests me is that I heard the Ordonian was in this tournament."
"Link killed it?" The King's surprise was obvious.
"Link's his name, huh? Has he fought yet?"
"He has," Zelda replied proudly. "He has already beaten two opponents without ever drawing a weapon."
Ganondorf for the first time showed some actual emotion besides boredom. "Were his opponents strong?"
"Normal soldiers," The King replied.
"It is still impressive," Queen Rutela said.
"I'm more impressed that he took down Hektor…the boar." He added since no one knew who it actually was. "My men told me he did it by himself, with no help. I've seen that boar, and I can't imagine anyone taking it on without the proper equipment and being my size."
Zelda for the first time took note on how tall Ganondorf was. Even sitting he was higher up than everyone, even Queen Rutela, who was quite tall herself. He definitely had muscles and was in perfect form. His black clothes fit him tightly except the cape that loosely draped over him. His fire orange hair could only be described as menacing. Although Zelda would never say that outloud. She was used to almost all officials and royals being slightly overweight. If not that, then simply in good form, but never in amazing shape. Ganondorf could've easily been mistaken for a simple warrior, not a lord.
He didn't even carry himself with a kingly demeanor. He slouched and rested his head on his elbow almost all the time, seeming to not give a care about anything. Zelda wondered how he stayed in good shape when he seemed so lackadaisical about everything.
"Well, while we're stopped, we might as well take an intermission," The King mumbled. He nodded to Bailey who quickly made the announcement to the crowd. There was an eruption of boos, but they all expected it.
"Zelda, do you wish to stretch your legs?" the King asked.
"I do," Zelda nodded and rose from the chair.
"Impa, please accompany her."
"Yes, my King." Impa bowed and followed Zelda out of the box.
"Where do you wish to go, Princess?" Impa asked.
Zelda smiled to herself. "Oh, I think I know."
"Man, I want to go!" Link whined.
"Wait your turn," Kristi scowled. "I told you that you have some time."
Link collapsed on the bench. "So boring!" He shouted.
"Well, I'm sorry my birthday bores you."
Link shot upward hearing that voice. Sure enough, the Princess was standing in front of him smiling, acting like her presence wasn't a big deal. It was the only deal. Her beauty drew attention from all the warriors and fighters. That, and they couldn't believe the Princess was talking with an Ordonian.
"Princess!" Kristi exclaimed, swiftly bowing. She turned her head to Link. "Are you kidding me? Bow."
Link stared at Zelda for a moment. Then he just started laughing. "Ah Princess, you know I don't mean it like that."
She smiled sweetly. "You're right I don't."
"What brings you down to all these smelly and ugly men?" Link asked, leaning forward on his knee.
"I wished to see how you are fairing."
"How I am fairing?" Link raised an eyebrow. "Have I been on your mind Princess?"
Kristi ran over to Link and slapped him in the head. "Are you really doing this right now?"
"Doing what!?" Link exclaimed.
"She's the Princess for heaven's sake. Have some respect."
Zelda giggled into her hand. "Link, tell me, who is your friend?"
"Oh, I'm sorry Princess," Kristi stepped up to Zelda. "My name is Kristi." She bowed slowly.
"Please, enough bowing," Zelda smiled. "It is nice to meet you Kristi. I'm Zelda."
"I know," Kristi sounded extremely nervous.
Zelda frowned. "That's the problem with being a princess. You can never actually introduce yourself. Everyone already knows you."
Link laughed. "At least out of respect. They just hate me."
Zelda looked sad. "I'm sorry Link. I try and stick up for you when I can."
Link looked surprised. "Why, Princess?"
"They judge you without knowing you," She explained. "I mean, if they got to know you and learned your were a cocky ingrate, then I might let it go."
"Such harsh words," Link held his hands to his heart in pain.
Zelda giggled as Link laughed.
"I don't believe it," Kristi softly spoke to herself. "He is actually having a complete relaxed and normal conversation with the Princess. Unbelievable."
"Princess, you should return." Impa spoke for the first time.
"Just a few more minutes," Zelda complained.
"Nos vado permissum," Impa said.
Let's go, Link quickly translated in his head.
"Cur?" Zelda whined.
Why?
"Nolo vos barbarum inter."
I do not want you around this barbarian.
"Vigilo vestri os vernula." Link leaned back slipping a dagger into his grip. Watch your mouth, servant.
Zelda jumped back in surprise as well as Impa. In fact, everyone who was listening into the conversation, which was just about everyone in that area, was shocked. A barbarian, from Ordon, the village of all savages, just spoke the ancient tongue. The language that only the royals knew.
"Tu percipio mihi?" Zelda narrowed her eyes.
"Yes, I understand you," Link smirked. "non barbarus secundum totus."
"No you're not," Zelda smiled as well. She turned to Impa who looked completely astounded. "We may go now." She turned back to Link. "Good luck, I'll be watching."
"I'll be fighting," Link replied.
Zelda smiled at him one last time before walking away.
"I'll be fighting," Link repeated. "What the fuck. Why would I say that?"
"Because you are madly in love with her," Kristi joked sitting next to him.
"Yes, I'm madly in love with the Princess." Link rolled his eyes.
"Fine, whatever," Kristi shrugged. "But why didn't you tell me you knew ancient Hyrulian?"
Link smirked, leaning closer to her. "There are many things you don't know about me."
Kristi pushed him back. "I don't wanna know the others."
Link laughed as well as they sat and watched some of the current battle. They watched in silence as Epona just ate out of her little food bucket. She managed to keep herself calm with all of the noise, something Link was slightly worried about. Then again, he knew Epona could handle anything. She was, after all, the best horse in the world.
"So, a personal meeting with the Princess, huh?"
Link looked up to see Piscis and Ralis standing in front of him.
"Oh Piscis, I wish I could speak with royalty," Ralis jokingly begged.
"No you don't, they are a bunch of babies and brats."
Ralis frowned. "You're being serious, aren't you?"
Kristi bowed before turning to Link. "Link, how come you get to meet all these famous people?"
"Link's quite famous on his own," Piscis answered. "That and you can never have enough friends like Link. A strong ally for sure."
"I could say the same for you," Link laughed.
"Are formalities just not in your blood?" Kristi gaped at Link.
"I've learned no royal actually likes them," Link shrugged.
"That we don't," Ralis agreed.
"Prince, that was a great battle you had," Link complimented. "I knew you had him the whole time but I was interested in seeing how you would accomplish it."
"Yeah, that was quite something wasn't it?" Piscis spoke slowly and leaned closer to Ralis.
Link laughed. "I assume you didn't teach him that."
"I teach proper form." Ralis shrugged away from Piscis as he spoke. "That was a flashy move to impress people."
"Well, what about Link?" Ralis argued. "He hasn't even drawn his weapon yet."
Piscis sighed, "Link is a little different."
"Oh, and why's that?" Link asked, settling himself and crossing his arms.
"Oh, please don't add to the ego," Kristi joked.
Piscis smiled wisely. "Link has skill far above everyone in this tournament."
Link's proud smirk wavered hearing Piscis.
"Did you really just say that?" Kristi was shocked. "Do you know what that will to do him?"
"Why do you say that, Piscis?" Link leaned forward, ignoring Kristi.
"Simple conjecture."
Link's eye was challenging. "Piscis, I know you are way more than what you let on. And I don't take statements like that easily."
"Apparently not," Piscis smiled, "But I was speaking the truth, Link. You are the best here. It worries you that I know that, doesn't it? You aren't the underdog that people make you out to be. You are in fact the one who is most favorable to win this tournament. Link, soon everyone will know your strength. Not just people like me."
"Is that a warning?"
"I would take it as one."
"Piscis, I believe you are overstepping your boundaries," Ralis told his mentor, not quite sure why the sudden mood change.
"Maybe I am," Piscis shrugged. "I might just be an old fool who doesn't know of which he speaks."
"Or..."Link drawled out.
"Or…I could have lived long enough to know when someone of extreme importance is sitting in front of me."
Link smirked and leaned back. "Piscis, you are quite a strange Zora, but I will think upon what you say."
"That is all I ask." Piscis turned to leave. "Come, my Prince."
"Goodbye, Link," He quickly followed Piscis away.
"What was that about?" Kristi asked.
"I'm not too sure, honestly," Link watched the two Zoras walk away.
"You seemed to get quite upset."
"It was the way he said it," Link explained, "He made it seem like he knew me entirely. That he knew what I was capable off."
"So?"
Link followed his hands and rested his arms on his knees, looking down. "It just bothers me. No one knows about me, or they shouldn't. But he looks at me and I can feel him tense slightly around me. He didn't yesterday but today he was different. Do not get me wrong, I don't think he is a bad Zora. There is just a mystery around him that makes me uncomfortable."
The battles started up again, but Kristi could only watch the blonde deep in thought. He seemed really bothered by what he just heard. He rubbed his hands together and his eyes never moved from the spot they were staring down on the ground. She wasn't sure what she should do exactly with him; if she should try and get his mind off it, or just let him continue to think and try to figure out whatever it was.
Suddenly the stadium erupted with screams. It was different from the past cheers of joy and excitement. These were screams of fear and horror. It even shook Link out of the little trance he was in.
Link quickly jumped to his feet sensing the urgency around him. He ran to the front and stood underneath the stands. He grabbed a nearby support in anger as his eyes laid on the scene in front of him.
There was a severed head lying on the stage with the man's eyes staring off into the distance. Already a gray tint was beginning to cover them. His mouth hung open showing his last expression before his death.
Surprise and terror.
Link's eyes darted up to the royal box.
The King was sitting stiffly in his chair. Not so much by the sight of the head, but surely for it happening in the tournament. He had seen many deaths in his life, but for the crowd and especially his daughter to see it... it was enough to set him rigid.
The Queen covered her mouth with one hand and looked disgusted. She turned away and didn't bear to watch anymore.
There were two new people that weren't there before. Link never saw them before but he could guess who they were. The Zora was obviously Queen Rutela and she just gripped her chair tightly. Her face showed slight signs of anger but Link could tell she has dealt with this in her life before and she might've expected it in the tournament as well.
The other was a dark skinned man with sharp orange hair. He leaned on his elbow that rested on the arm of the chair. His face had no outward expression but Link could see in his eyes the gleam that came when they landed on the crimson. The rise of excitement they seemed to carry while his face remained stoic. Link wasn't sure how he knew but he did. The man who took inside pleasure at the death of another. He had to be Lord Ganondorf of the Gerudo.
Link's eyes traveled to the Princess. Link felt wrath and sorrow fill him. Zelda had a hand covering her gaping mouth with her eyes wide in terror, frozen to the body and the trail of blood that lead to the head. Her hand shook slightly and Link could see her begin to quiver in fear. She tried to look way but she couldn't mange it. She could only stare at the man whose life just left him.
"My baby!" A women's voice was heard among all the screams.
It was no doubt the mother, and Link felt more grief for the woman that just lost her child.
He looked to see the opponent who did the dirty dead. What he saw was an average sized man who looked to be in his late thirties. Flowing silver hair with a wobbly stance. He was standing still but his body still had some movement to it. Like a wave or a clock swinging back and forth. He had an eerie abnormal feel to him. He had two straight medium blades attached to his arms. They jutted out over his hands and were basically sharp extensions of his own arms.
Link watched as the man looked to where the woman in the crowd was. A sick satisfying smile appeared on his face. He slowly turned back until he faced Link. The smile carried over and made Link grip the support even tighter. The man's deep green eyes carried death with them as they stared at Link.
"You're next."
Thanks for all the reviews they really do mean a lot. The tournament is finally starting. The next couple chapters will be more action but i'll still try and keep some interaction between Zelda and Link. Cause i know you all hate Kristi, don't worry, i know this. Anyways please review, it helps me update a lot.