A.N. Hey party people first I'd like to say either fanfiction or my computer is being a jerk and refuses to let me save changes in Doc manager, so I've edited this chapter outside of Doc manager. Hopefully nothing got lost in putting it up, but that would be why my line spacings are missing this time. I'll fix it as soon as I get Doc manager to cooperate with me, but I didn't want you guys to wait any longer for this chapter. This by far is the longest chapter for any fic I've ever written, and it was a ton of fun to write so I hope you guys enjoy!^-^
Chapter 16
"So a portal opened up right in front of you, and brought you here?" The hunter nodded at Zelda's question, and the royal took on a thoughtful expression. That didn't bode well, the Queen thought. Hopefully it didn't mean Ganon was up to something, and was trying to drag Samus into it again.
"Unfortunately, you might be stuck here until a messenger from Subspace comes to tell us about the next tournament. We don't have any means of contacting them otherwise." The thought of having Samus around for so long sent an excited jolt through the royal. Despite her excitement though Zelda would feel horrible if Samus was kept from her world unwillingly.
The metal clad warrior shrugged her shoulders indicating she had no problem with the thought of staying in Hyrule. The former teammates sat on a sofa in the corner of Zelda's study while they talked. It was late afternoon so the setting sun filtered through the window bathing the room with its soft lights. The light of the fireplace reflected off the hunter's armor bringing the royal's attention to the new armor.
The armor wasn't too unlike the old one Samus wore. Same red helmet, but orange almost flesh like material covered the majority of the armor. It was sleeker and looked lighter than the old armor, and Zelda wondered if Samus simply had other sets of armor or something became of the old armor. The royal still had no idea how the armor worked, only ever seeing the hunter remove the helmet. At times Zelda wondered if the armor even came fully off.
"You're welcome here of course," Zelda said, knowing the hunter she probably wouldn't want to intrude upon the Queen's home. Even though Zelda was more than happy to have Samus around. Scratch that, she wanted the hunter around. She had barely been here an hour, and already Zelda felt calmer with her metal companion's presence.
"Thank you," The royal smiled hearing the hunter's voice. After hearing it way back at the beginning of the tournament Zelda never thought she would hear the hunter speak. Not that Zelda had a problem with that. Samus' mutism never bothered her, but she did always wonder what Samus' voice would sound like if it wasn't damaged.
Hearing it now it was exactly what Zelda imagined the calm metal warrior would sound like. It was low, still somewhat rough from lack of use, but as Samus continued to speak Zelda could hear it slowly becoming clearer. As they talked the hunter still mostly used sign language to communicate, the motions came before she remember the words could.
"Do you think Ganon is up to something?" The royal frowned, she had not seen any sign of the gerudo king since his defeat in Subspace. Zelda doubted Ganon was up to something so soon. It would have been a major lost to him since a large amount of his minions were slain in Subspace. Plus his fight with Samus did a number on the Gerudo Lord. Not only physically, but it was a painful lesson to Ganon that he may be powerful in Hyrule. Subspace though, there were plenty of stronger people out there.
"No, it's too soon. It should take awhile for him to regain the strength he had. Besides Ganon is not so foolish to bring someone he knows can defeat him to Hyrule. That would only foil any plans he has of conquering the land." The Queen had a suspicion that there was greater going on here. Someone even stronger than Ganon was pulling the strings. What their goal was Zelda didn't know. Samus gave a nod agreeing with the royal that Ganon wasn't behind this.
"Are you feeling okay though? You just crossed over dimensions, I'd imagine that's not an overly pleasant thing." The hunter paused for a moment before nodding saying that they were fine. Zelda gave her a skeptical look, something was off about the hunter. She couldn't place it, but Samus seemed on edge, tense like she expected to be attacked or something. Zelda knew of only one way to see if Samus was being truthful.
"Samus could you take off your helmet?" It wasn't too odd of a request coming from Zelda, but the hunter still tilted her head questioning the request.
"I haven't seen your face in quite a while." Zelda smiled innocently, the hunter nodded before the familiar hiss of the helmet clicking off sounded out. Samus pulled off her helmet, and Zelda almost gasped. While the Queen knew she herself looked stressed, the hunter looked downright horrible.
Dark circles marred under Samus' eyes, and the hunter appeared gaunt like she hasn't been eating. The hunter's skin was pale and clammy, leaving Zelda to wonder if she was sick. Her messy blonde hair seemed dull, though it was still tied up in a ponytail like the last time Zelda saw Samus' face. The hunter saw Zelda's concern as soon as the helmet was off.
"I'm fine," the words were hollow, a lie that Zelda could see right through now. Zelda frowned, the hunter didn't make eye contact as if Zelda would be able to see through her if made eye contact. The royal took Samus' hand making the hunter turn her gaze to the Queen.
"What happened?" Samus didn't answer at first looking away from Zelda and staring at the fire burning in the hearth. When Samus was still silent Zelda spoke.
"You know I won't force you to tell me, but you shouldn't keep everything bottled away." It wasn't healthy and clearly it was beginning to catch up to the hunter. Samus sighed defeatedly, she was still silent, but Zelda could see she was trying to figure out how to explain things to Zelda.
"I did something I thought was right, but governement in my world does not agree." A vague answer but at least the hunter was talking, or signing as it was currently.
"What did you do?"
"I destroyed a space station and a planet." Zelda would have gasped at the magnitude of what Samus destroyed, but there was no guilt apparent on the hunter. She would wait to hear Samus' reason. The hunter was far too logical to do something without reason.
"Why destroy them?"
"There were parasite life forms that could cause mass destruction onboard and on the planet's surface." The hunter's expression was tight, that seemed like a valid reason to destroy the station and planet to Zelda. Though the royal could see why the government would be upset at the station's destruction. Before Zelda could say anything though, Samus actually spoke.
"They were going to weaponize them." That didn't sound good, slowly Zelda was getting an idea of what happened. Samus didn't give Zelda a chance to speak continuing her voice rising in anger.
"I murdered all of them for a reason, and they wanted to recreate them to use them as weapons! They're no better than pirates." Samus' angry faded faster than it appeared, and the hunter slumped covering her face with the hand Zelda wasn't holding.
"I've tried to keep the galaxy safe, but it's all been pointless. I've failed…" Zelda felt Samus shuddered, acting instinctively Zelda pulled the hunter into a hug. Samus tensed at first before clutching the Queen tightly.
"You destroyed the parasites though right?" Zelda felt Samus nod.
"Then you kept your world safe, you didn't fail Samus. Your world is lucky to have a protector like you watching out for it." The hunter didn't let go, continuing to cling to the royal. When she finally did speak her voice still carried the defeated tone that Zelda wished would fade away.
"A lot of people would disagree with that." Gently Zelda separated herself enough from the hunter so that she could look at her.
"There are always going to be those that disagree, but I'm sure there are many in your world who are thanking their gods that you destroyed such a threat." Ruling a country had given Zelda plenty of experience with people disagreeing. While Zelda knew that Samus was right in destroying a dangerous creature that could be used as a weapon. She could understand why the government would be crossed with the hunter for destroying an asset like that. However Zelda knew for certain that while the officials might disagree. The common person once word would spread to them would see Samus actions for what they were.
Samus nodded processing the words Zelda said, while the Queen could still see the defeated look in the hunter she seemed a little better off than before. There was something else though, Zelda could tell something else happened that the hunter wasn't saying.
"Did something else happen?" Zelda asked, these things were clearly weighing heavily on the hunter. Though Zelda didn't like having to coax the hunter into revealing painful memories. She knew the hunter would be better off to having talked about.
Samus nodded, confirming that something else happened. Zelda waited, either Samus would explain or she would wish it to be left alone.
"The parasites had the ability to mimic any kind of creature….I can see why everyone fears me." Zelda tensed at the hunter words. Never once had the hunter ever showed that people's distrust bothered her, but clearly deep down it did. As for the parasites, once Link had to face down a shadow of himself created by Ganon. Zelda shuddered at the thought of a creature mimicking your face. No wonder Samus was shaken by the event.
Zelda pulled the hunter close again.
"For what it's worth I was never afraid of you." The Queen could never see Samus as the cold machine many believe her. It was just a shell, underneath the armor Samus was a kind soul that has suffered far too much.
"You're probably the only one." Zelda pulled away surprising the hunter by smiling.
"Now I think Pikachu would be insulted that you forgot about him." Samus lips upturned slightly at the mention of the yellow mouse pokemon.
"Remind me, and I'll apologize to him." Zelda wasn't done yet though as she remembered the hero of Onett.
"Also don't forget Ness, you didn't see much of him before we left, but I think he sees you as his hero since we saved him from Ganon." Ness had thanked Zelda for saving his life, and the Queen heard that he had done the same to the hunter. Link had mention that he saw the exchanged and from what he said it seemed like Ness was no longer intimidated by the bounty hunter.
"So a pokemon, a psychic boy, and you I think that's enough." Zelda couldn't help but think how sad it was that Samus was content with just three people seeing her for what she really was, but the small smile Samus had made the thought disappear.
"Feeling better then?" Samus nodded, looking more relaxed now that she wasn't being weighed down by such painful thoughts.
"Good, now we are going to have a nice dinner. Then I'm going to have a room prepared for you where you will sleep for at least eight hours." Zelda held a determined look as she ordered the hunter. The hunter looked exhausted, and Zelda wouldn't be satisfied until she rested for awhile. Samus smiled and for the first time she heard a short laugh come from the metal clad warrior.
"Is this how you treat all your subjects Queen Zelda?" The royal blushed not expecting such a teasing tone from the hunter. She recovered quickly huffing and crossing her arms.
"Of course not, you get special treatment since I'm questioning if you take care of yourself at all. When was the last time you ate or slept?" Zelda rose from her seat while giving Samus a suspicious look. Samus stood as well picking holding her helmet ready to put it back on.
The hunter shrugged, running a hand through her bangs that were beginning to stick to her face from the sweat that clung there. Zelda frowned stepping towards the hunter she took off one of her gloves. Samus gave her a curious look before Zelda reached up and felt the hunter's forehead.
"Samus you have a fever! How long have you been sick?" Zelda wasn't surprised the hunter was ill, she certainly looked it. Again the hunter shrugged, seemingly not caring in the least about her health. Zelda's eyes narrowed, Samus' skin felt like a furnace under her hand, if the hunter was a normal human she knew Samus would not be so nonchalant about such sickness.
Inwardly Zelda sighed, wishing Samus took care of herself. Until the hunter did though Zelda certainly wasn't going to let the illness slide.
"Dinner can wait for now, may I tend to it?" Zelda gestured for Samus to sit back down. The hunter paused seemingly wary of getting any medical attention, Zelda recalled the hunter had chosen to let a doctor tend her wounds rather than the royal after the tournament's horrid end. Zelda got the feeling that Samus wasn't a fan of doctors or any form of medical care. She conceded though sitting back down watching the royal with a guarded look.
The Triforce glowed brightly on Zelda's hand, and the royal again placed it on the hunter's forehead. Zelda could feel how tense the hunter was. Her brow was furrowed under Zelda's hand, mistrusting the unseen force that was magic.
"Relax, it's not going to hurt." Zelda's magic reached out tentatively at first sensing the hunter's tension. Healing magic was different from other forms of magic. Unlike the ability to create a ball of fire or deflect damage, healing required one to connect to the person they were healing on some level.
The hunter's hand signed a quick sorry before she attempted to relax. The royal gave her a gentle smile refocusing on lowering the hunter's fever. Zelda felt her magic wrap itself around the hunter, slowly it began to lower her temperature. Her brows furrowed though, through her magic she could sense other untreated injuries the hunter stayed silent about. She tried to focus and heal the wounds, but without making contact with them she couldn't do anything.
At the very least Samus seemed to relax, it must felt great to have the fever lowered. Samus had leaned back a little on the sofa her eyes closed. By the time Zelda removed her hand the hunter was completely slumped her breathing even.
"Samus?" Zelda said softly not wanting to wake her if she had truly dozed off. Samus didn't respond, it seemed the exhaustion she clearly was suffering from finally caught up to her. It was strange seeing Samus so unguarded, her face usually so serious was relaxed now. Blonde hair fell over her eyes with her head slumped over in sleep. Without thinking Zelda fixed the unruly blonde locks so they didn't hang in the hunter's face. Samus twitched and Zelda pulled back realizing what she did.
Samus opened her eyes blearily, but Zelda could tell the hunter might as well still be asleep. She looked at the royal confusion evident in her tired gaze. Zelda gently touched her shoulder keeping her from getting up.
"Go back to sleep, everything's fine, sleep." Zelda's words soothed the tired hunter, and her eyes closed again. Her breathing evened out, the hunter falling back into blissful sleep. The Queen smiled happy Samus didn't wake, she definitely needed a rest. It was worrying that they've only been separated for a few months, and this is the state Samus returns in. Sure Zelda was here to care for her now, but what did Samus do when she wasn't being dragged into Hyrule.
If the wounds Zelda sensed were any indication, probably nothing. Eyebrow twitching Zelda felt a pang of anger at the hunter for her disregard for herself. Usually Zelda wasn't one to talk about taking care of oneself since most of the staff called her a workaholic. However, Zelda's work wasn't life threatening. The worst that was going to happen to her was a few missed nights of sleep, or at worst a paper cut. What other manner of monsters did Samus face Zelda had to wonder, though not for long. If she knew, Zelda was sure she would never want the hunter to leave Hyrule.
Shaking from her thoughts Zelda looked to the window, the sun was still slowly dipping towards the horizon. Glancing at the hunter, it would be a while before Samus would wake. Briefly Zelda thought to try and move the hunter to lay on the sofa, but if the smallest touch made her stir. Then trying to move her would certainly wake her. She definitely would have a crick in her neck when she woke, but at least the hunter would be a little rested.
Moving back to her desk Zelda sat down glancing at the sleeping hunter. She smiled softly, then grabbed her quill to finish up a few things before Samus awoke. The study was quiet the only sound was the scratching of Zelda's quill and the hunter soft breathing.
The quiet atmosphere was broken though when Zelda heard Samus take a sharp intake of breath. The Queen looked over to see Samus' face contorted in what looked like pain. Quickly Zelda rounded her desk and approached the sleeping hunter.
Samus was breathing quickly now, shuddering in her sleep. The hunter was mumbling to, though Zelda couldn't make out what the words were. A nightmare, Zelda realized quickly she placed a hand on Samus' shoulder shaking her gently.
"Samus, wake up." Zelda called softly, the hunter didn't wake though. She twitched brow still furrowed, Zelda heard her mumble again. Then the hunter jerked and Zelda had to jump away to avoid a metal fist.
Samus sprung up, Zelda taking a few steps back raising her hands in passive manner. The hunter's arm cannon hand materialized, beginning to charge as soon as it took full form. Weapon raised Samus' eyes looked around wildly for some non-existent threat. She was breathing quickly the images that haunted her dreams still present even in wakefulness.
"Samus," Zelda kept her voice even calling the hunter's name. It caused the hunter's gaze to snap to Zelda's, staring at the royal. Yet her gaze seemed so far off as if seeing something entirely different.
Tentatively Zelda reached out to try and get Samus to lower her weapon. The hunter tensed at the movement her brow furrowed her free hand came to her face covering her eyes as if trying to rid herself of the nightmare's images.
"It's not real Samus you're in Hyrule remember. Everything's fine." Zelda took a step forward, pausing to make sure the movement didn't startled the hunter. Samus' breathing was still heavy, but she was taking deep slow breaths clearly trying to calm herself.
The arm cannon disappeared Samus' arm lowering. Zelda crossed the distance separating them, and wrapped her arms around the hunter holding her close. She tensed, slowly though the hunter became aware of where she really was.
Zelda didn't let go until she heard Samus' breathing settle, and the hunter's body relax. When she finally did loosen her hold, Zelda only let go of Samus enough that she could look up at her face.
"Better?" Samus nodded, her calm in control demeanor slowly returning.
"Good, do want to talk about it?" Zelda knew the answer even before Samus shook her head. She gave her a gentle smile, Samus had already shared much with the royal tonight. Besides Zelda knew better than anyone about horrid dreams, her prophetic nightmares often being the cause of the royal's lack of sleep. Samus would talk about it when she was ready to.
"Let's get some dinner then shall we? Today has been a long day." Samus gave a nod in agreement grabbing her helmet before following the royal out of the study.
Dinner was a much more pleasant affair. Zelda had her maids bring them food to a small table set out in the garden she used to visit as a child. There was still just enough sun left to illuminate the garden, but there were candles hanging on each wall surrounding the small garden providing more light for the two. Zelda always prefered dining out here rather than the actual dining room the castle held, it was far too empty for just one person to eat there.
It was slightly humorous watching the hunter be served by her staff. Samus clearly wasn't used to such treatment, and awkwardly thanked the maid that brought them their food.
When Samus took her helmet off again to eat Zelda inwardly laughed at the hunter. Samus looked close to drooling over the food before her. She ate at an even pace, but it was clearly forced so she wouldn't appear a slob for wolfing down the food.
Zelda ate her food while telling Samus about what has happened since they separated. Samus seemed to have returned to mostly her normal self. Listening to Zelda's words injecting her opinion when she believed it was warranted, but mostly staying silent. Silence was never awkward with the hunter she seemed to know the perfect time to add to the conversation.
"I have been getting a quite a few complaints about the guard though. A lot of crime is going unpunished because the guard is too laxed." Samus perked up when Zelda mentioned her guard. She took a gulp of water before speaking.
"They're too laxed?" Zelda nodded, poking at her food her brow furrowed in thought.
"Yes, since we're in peacetime we have a lot of guard that...aren't very enthusiastic about their job. It's a well paying respected job that many don't take very seriously because there is no threat to be worried about." Link has complained to Zelda many times about how incompetent her soldiers were, and though Zelda hated to admit it he was right. However Zelda was no General, not even really a warrior she had no experience on how to approach the problem.
"I thought monsters were common in your world?" Samus had a thoughtful look on her face as she spoke.
"They only come out at night, and the walls around town keep out most threats." Zelda paused for a moment then seemed to realize she was going on about the problems of the state.
"Apologies, I didn't mean to bore you with such things. The trivial problems of Hyrule are not yours." Samus didn't seemed bothered she gave Zelda a small smile.
"I don't mind, you sounds like you should listen to your own advice though." The hunter grinned lightly though her tone was serious. Zelda paused considering her words. The Queen didn't really have anyone to talk to about any problems she had. Link didn't understand the way things went in the castle. His solutions would be to tell off a snarky lord who was talking back. While as Queen, Zelda had to remain poised calm above the petty ways of those below her. It seemed by Samus' words she was offering to listen to any problems the Queen had. The kind gesture made Zelda smile.
"Another time, I'd say you've been through enough today. You'll have plenty of time to listen to me complain later." Zelda laughed feeling slightly giddy thinking that Samus was going to be at the castle for a while.
The two finished their meals exchanging lighthearted conversations. Unknown to them the castle staff were taking peeks at the garden trying to catch a glimpse at the mysterious warrior that had somehow managed to get the Queen to drop everything to spend time with.
"I'm telling you she has to be a knight of some kind!" The maid rolled her eyes listening to the stable boy's declaration. Ignoring it she shifted the dish in her hands continuing to wash it.
"Don't you have a job to do Weston? We shouldn't be gossiping about her majesty's guest." The stable boy crossed his arms flicking his hair out of his face. It has been three days since the mysterious stranger showed up with Sir Link to the castle. To the entire castle staff's shock, the Queen who was normally a workaholic took time out of each day and spent much of it in the warrior's company. She still got what was needed done of course, but such a change threw the whole castle for a loop.
"Please Clara, the whole castle is trying to figure out what's up. A lot of the guard want to take a shot at sparing with her. See if that armor is just for show." The maid frowned something told her it wasn't. Though young she has worked at the castle for most of her life, and never has she seen any knight wear armor like her majesty's guest.
"You're going to get us both in trouble if you don't get to your duties." Weston scoffed leaning against the counter.
"It's too early, I'd just end up spooking the horses." This prompted a glare from Clara which was ignored.
"Then what are you doing up? Even her majesty won't be getting up for at least another hour or two." The Queen rose with the sun and it was still a good hour before the sun came up.
"Because I….Holy goddess!" Weston jumped cursing silently before whipping around to face the counter. Clara took a quick glance before she too jumped inching closer to the sink as if it would make her less noticeable.
Queen Zelda's guest had entered the kitchen that glowing visor gave the warrior a frightening appearance in the dim lighting of the castle. Their metal boots clicked against the stone floor as they moved.
Either they didn't notice the maid and stablehand or didn't acknowledge them. The warrior walked over to the pantry looking inside before going about looking inside the cabinets that lined the kitchen walls. It seemed like she was looking for something. Clara heard a metal ting, and saw the warrior pulling a tea kettle out of the cabinet. Tea? Clara tried her best to keep her eyes on her work, but she was curious. What would the metal covered warrior be making tea for?
They found the boxes of tea leaves in the cabinet, but then they paused looking at the various boxes as if they didn't know what to pick. That was odd most people weren't so indecisive when it came to something so simple as tea.
Then it clicked in the maid's mind the tea wasn't for the metal clad warrior. Looking out the nearest window the sky was beginning to brighten as the sun climbed over the horizon. Without even thinking Clara blurted out the answer the warrior was wondering.
"Her majesty prefers green tea." She immediately clapped a hand over her mouth. She didn't know the rank of this warrior for all she knew they could be a high ranking lord. If so, it wasn't her place to nose into their business.
The warrior didn't get angry, she heard a box being pulled from the cabinet. Then another ting of metal from the kettle being moved. Feeling bold Clara turned around and found herself face to face with the metal clad warrior.
The maid jumped, the warrior towered over her. Even Weston had to crane his neck to look up at them. They still didn't seem angry though, in fact they seemed relaxed as if they were trying to appear non-threatening.
"Thank you," a low alto voice came from the helmet. Without another word the warrior turned and left to another part of the kitchen, no doubt to find a stove and water. Heart beating faster than a hummingbird the maid let out a breath she didn't know she been holding. Both maid and stable hand stood there for a minute surprise at what had just happened. While Weston left grinning excited to spread the gossip about the intimidating warrior making tea for the Queen. Clara continued with her work leaving the metal warrior alone, having a feeling she would hear all about them with time.
Zelda covered her mouth to stifle a yawn. It was early morning and the Queen had just finished getting ready for the day. The castle was quiet, as most of the staff had yet to awaken to start the day. The Queen prefered this time, most of her days were always a rush to get everything she needed done. The mornings however were always calm, leaving Zelda to walk to her study leisurely.
Opening the door Zelda gave the fireplace a curious look. A fire was already burning happily, odd since Zelda always managed to wake before most of the staff. Normally Zelda would light the fire herself, but the castle was getting colder each day with winter approaching. So the royal didn't question it, assuming one of the early rising maids decided to warm the study for her.
Getting to her desk Zelda found a cup of tea waiting for her sitting by her papers. Sitting down Zelda's eyebrow rose, steam still rose from the cup so it was made recently. Strange because Zelda didn't hear anybody in the kitchen aside from a maid or two washing dishes.
Not questioning it Zelda happily drank the warm beverage, feeling more alert Zelda looked to her papers. Leafing through them the Queen pulled out a letter the guard captain had given to her late yesterday to read at her leisure.
The Queen grumbled as she remembered the words would be easier read with her glasses. Years of having her nose in books was catching up to her, and Impa had warned her as a child she would have trouble reading in the future. Zelda could see fine at a distance, but it was becoming increasingly difficult to read without the glasses. It had been a miracle she had managed in Subspace without them. Pulling a pair of reading glasses out of her desk drawer Zelda perched the speckles on her face unfolding the letter.
Humming in contentment the Queen skimmed the message while sipping her tea. The guard captain was requesting that Zelda's guest put on a demonstration of their fighting prowess to the castle guards. Zelda grinned at the captain's wording of Samus. The castle was quite confused on who or what Samus was.
Most of the castle was assuming she was a knight of some kind due to the armor. Which if Zelda thought about it they weren't wrong. In some sense Samus was a knight. She protected her world from evil, much like a knight in Hyrule would do.
Speaking of Samus, the hunter was slowly relaxing and getting used to being at the castle. Zelda didn't have as much time as she would like to be with the hunter, so Samus had time to do as she pleased. From what Zelda heard from her staff the hunter didn't disturbed anyone, and was the model guest. Which was greatly welcomed by the staff, as most lords were not the best house guests.
She heard that Samus had taken paper, ink, and a few quills from the storage room, then disappeared from the castle grounds a few time. Zelda wasn't too concerned. Samus could take care of herself after all. The Queen was curious what she was up to on these trips she took outside the castle though.
Putting the paper down, Zelda noted that she would have to ask if Samus was willing to show the castle guards what she could do. It would be beneficial to the guards, the Queen surmised. Zelda wasn't blind to the castle gossip, she knew many were eager to test their skills against a strong looking opponent. Besides it would give the hunter something to do. Though from the time Zelda was spending with the hunter the inactivity seemed to be doing her some good.
Samus was taking off her helmet more often without Zelda prompting her, though Zelda has still yet to see Samus completely take the armor off. The Queen was beginning to wonder if the armor even came completely off. While curious as to why Samus never took the armor off in the presence of others, she didn't press the issue.
After the first few days the hunter already appeared less gaunt from having regular meals with Zelda. The dark shadows under her eyes were fading, and Samus appeared less tense each day.
It made Zelda happy knowing some good was coming from Samus being ripped from her world. After hearing what had happened to the hunter she was glad that portal appeared when it did. Who knows what would have become of Samus had she continued on as she had.
Zelda knew Samus would have lived of course, but she shuddered to think the state she'd be in by the time the tournament came by.
Zelda got through a few more letters before a light knock at the door captured her attention.
"Enter," the door clicked open and in walked the hunter herself. In Samus' hand was a plate of steaming hot food clearly just made. Samus walked over to the desk handing the plate to Zelda. It was becoming a routine of theirs every morning. Zelda would wake head to her study to begin working. Soon after, Samus would come with either breakfast for both of them or just the Queen if the hunter had chosen to already eat.
"Good morning, thank you." Zelda took the offered food moving aside her papers to make room for the plate. Samus nodded sitting down in the chair across from Zelda's desk.
"Anything planned for the day?" The hunter shrugged as usual, not having a concrete plan of her actions for the day. With a small hiss, Samus' helmet was removed, the hunter sitting it down on her lap.
"If you have nothing else, my guard captain wanted to know if you would show the guard a demonstration of your fighting skills." Samus quirked an eyebrow looking thoughtful.
"Nothing serious, he probably just wants to have a few guards spare against you. I'm sure you're far out of their league, but it's something to consider if you find yourself bored." To Zelda surprise after thinking for a moment an almost mischievous smile appeared on Samus' face. She nodded agreeing to spare with the guards, Zelda blinked not liking the look Samus had adopted.
"Okay I'll tell him you'll do it." Zelda paused for a moment before adding. "Don't cause too much trouble. I'd rather not have to explain to a guard's family that they have several broken bones because someone beat them into a pulp." Samus stood signing a quick don't worry before putting her helmet back on. The hunter left Zelda to her work with the feeling she was going to have a mess to clean up later.
Samus' first impression of the old grizzled man that was the captain of Zelda's guard was that he was probably the only competent fighter here. Other than Zelda herself of course, but the royal was a pacifist by nature so she lacked the drive to be a warrior.
A few hours after having breakfast with Zelda the captain had approached the hunter while she was relaxing in the garden. With one look Samus could tell the older man's intent.
He wanted Samus to beat the crap out of the guards to show them how out of touch they were. It was something Samus found herself more than happy to do. After hearing Zelda mention she was having issues with the soldiers, Samus had spent some time thinking of a way to help the Queen. Zelda was letting Samus stay at the castle after all. It was the least the hunter could do.
The captain had lead Samus to the barracks located in the back of the castle. A few small buildings were behind the castle where the guards slept, and there was a sizable staging area where guards could practice.
Several guards were waiting for the captain's return, lined up in standard military fashion. Samus gave them credit for at least appearing like respectable soldiers. The hunter had her arm cannon dematerialized. She definitely wouldn't need it for this.
Behind the guards lined up though was a familiar face. Sitting on top a wooden crate Link waved at the hunter a smirk on his face. He hopped off the crate approaching the captain who sighed at the hero's appearance.
"Sir Link," he didn't even finish before Link cut him off.
"Ya, ya I know I'm not supposed to be here in the barracks. Believe it or not captain I'm here on official business delivering a shipment on the behalf of Lon Lon Ranch." Link gave Samus a grin before looking back to the captain. Samus titled her helmet wondering what the hero was up to.
"If you're on a delivery Sir Link why are you here, instead of with your cargo?" The hero's grinned widened motioning to the soldiers lined up.
"I heard Samus was going to beat some guys into the ground, so I came to watch." He finished talking with a laugh, a few of the guards behind him startled at the hero's blunt statement. Some gave the hunter a worried look, wondering if what Link said was true.
"Well," the captain sighed turning to the guards lined up. "As Sir Link so eloquently put it, you will be sparing with Sir Aran." Samus quirked an unseen eyebrow at that. She has been called many things, but Samus could say she's never been called Sir. The hunter briefly wondered if Zelda told her people she was a knight. It didn't really bother Samus, as it was probably easier for Zelda to just tell people Samus was knight rather than an intergalactic bounty hunter from a different dimension.
The captain's statement was met by mix reactions from the guard. Some seemed worried, others stayed mostly expressionless, and a few of the more cocky ones looked excited at the idea.
"Sir Aran," the captain motioned to the circle drawn into the ground designating it as the sparing area. The hunter walked over crossing her arms waiting for the first guard to step forward. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Link pushing a crate forward jumping on it and taking a seat, ready to watch the show.
"Everyone is going, so we're just going down the line. River! You're up first!" The guard jumped at the captain's command. Uncertainly he walked into the circle, Samus observed him silently. He took a fighting stance fists raised, Samus didn't move a muscle her arms still crossed over her chest. The guard was uncertain of himself that much was clear, but his stance seemed solid.
"Fight!" River ran forward fist raised, he swung and Samus stepped out of the way spinning around ending up behind the guard. The hunter kept her arms crossed not taking the offensive yet. She was observing watching every movement the guard made. Analysing every weakness, every strength as the guard attempted again and again to hit the hunter. This guard was a lanky boy barely out of his teenaged years. Messy hair stuck out of his helmet, and Samus could see uncertainty in his gaze.
Each time River tired to get a hit in Samus dodged with ease. This went on until Samus was satisfied she understood the guard's way of fighting. Finally when River was panting close to giving up when he swung his arm outstretched. Samus grabbed his wrist and twisted, not enough to break it, but the guard yelped in pain. He struggled for a moment trying to break out of the hunter's iron grip, but to no avail.
Samus let go when River tried to jerk away, he fell to ground with a grunt. He stayed there for a moment rubbing the back of his head. He looked up when Samus held out a hand to help him back up.
The captain gave an approving look as River hurried back into line having been defeated. Link groaned though complaining he wanted to see Samus smash someone into the ground.
After two more fights with Samus merely dodging until she decided it was time to end the fight. The next guard Link got his wish.
The fourth guard had walked confidently into the circle, his chest puffed out taking a fighting stance. Samus had taken note of the guard already, he had scoffed at the two who were easily defeated. Unlike River who had still yet to grown out of his scrawny teenage body, this young man was muscular, with a cocky grin on his face. Samus knew the look, she had been in the military after all. It was the look all new soldiers had before they saw any real combat. Samus had no doubt this man was probably the best fighter in this group, but he was about to get a painful lesson on how there was always someone stronger than you.
He charged at Samus trying to overwell the hunter, so she would flaunter in her dodging. Like the others Samus simply avoided the attacks easily. The hunter could have let him hit her, but that would just end with him breaking his hand on Samus armor. Besides despite the heavy armor the hunter was still able to move quickly enough to move out of the way. The inexperienced guards were clearly not expecting her to be able to move with such heavy looking armor.
"Come on hold still," The guard mumbled angrily, quietly enough that the captain wouldn't hear him. It took less time for Samus to access this man's skill, despite his cocky demeanor she wasn't impressed. He was simply strong, and an untrained fighter would be overwhelmed by it.
He didn't even see it coming when Samus grabbed his arm jerking him around she kicked him squarely in the back sending him face planting into the ground.
"Goddess fuc…"
"Back in line! You can grumble there!" The captain barked, the guard glared but followed the command. Link laughed which only caused the guard to become even more angry. A few of the others snickered as well, but were silenced by the captain.
Samus made short work of the rest of the guards. It wasn't long before each guard in line was covered in dirt from being tossed to the ground by the hunter. Link chuckling and laughing at the guards the entire time.
When the last guard was defeated and Link threw his head back laughing finding the guards so thoroughly beat hilarious. The cocky guard from earlier leaned over quietly whispering to the guard next to him.
"He wouldn't be laughing if it was him in the ring." Unfortunately Samus wasn't the only one to hear the comment. Link jumped from the crate he sat on striding into the circle.
"Oh? I wouldn't huh? What you say metalhead? Ready for a real fight?" It was still strange to have Link acting so friendly towards her, but something told the hunter to go along with whatever he was up to. She nodded.
Link grinned exiting the circle for a moment to grab a sword and a shield that were hanging on a nearby weapon rank. He reentered the circle spinning the sword once appearing excited. A stark contrast to the last time Samus fought the hero.
Since the sword he held wasn't the master sword there was no way it could cause any damage to the hunter, so Samus kept her arm cannon dematerialized so the fight would be fair.
"Ready when you are metalhead!" The hunter nodded, and Link grinned running at her sword raised. Sweeping wide with the blade Samus jumped back avoiding the sword. This was different from the last time she fought the green clad hero. Last time Link had been so determined to defeat her, as if she had been a villain that needed slain.
Now he was grinning as he swung his blade at her. He wasn't even swinging the sword that hard. It was like he wasn't trying to cause any real damage. Samus soon found herself smiling under her helmet. She never fought for the fun of it, but clearly that was Link's goal with this.
When Samus dodged another attack without countering attacking Link called out.
"Come one metalhead! You know I'm not like these guys!" Link swung his sword down in a horizontal strike, Samus blocked it with her arm. With his sword still stuck on the hunter's arm Link leaned in whispering.
"Hey wanna' scare the pants off these guards?" The hunter glanced at the guards, they all were watching the fight in amazement of the two fighters' skills. They separated exchanging a couple more blows before Link was able to whisper to the hunter again.
"I want you to catch my sword next blow and snap it in half." Samus nodded, the heroes separated Link slashed his sword across the hunter's chest. As planned though Samus caught the blade mid-swing. If it were the master sword the blade would have cut right through her hand, armor or not.
It just an ordinary sword though, Samus gripped the blade tightly the sound of the metal bending resonated in the air. Using her enhanced strength the blade slowly started bending, until not being able to handle the stress anymore it snapped. Link stumbled backwards staring at broken sword that was now nothing more than the handle and half a blade. Staring at the sword for another second Link grinned laughing tossing the pommel aside.
The guards all jumped staring at the broken sword laying on the ground. They went from gazing at the sword to the hunter who just snapped a metal sword with their bare hand. Even the guard captain's eyes were wide. The strongest fighter they'd ever seen was Link, but even the hero didn't have such brute strength.
With a grin Link tossed the shield he borrowed into the arms of one of the stunned guards.
"Well that was fun, good to see you're not letting yourself get soft metalhead." Link playfully punched Samus' arm continuing to grin. Samus titled her helmet looking at the hero.
"Guess that's enough fun for now though, I gotta get back to the ranch before Malon thinks I fell asleep on the job. Come on metalhead walk with me?" Link gestured for Samus to walk with him Samus nodded. Before leaving the captain thanked the hunter and hero for their help, looking rather pleased at the shocked and amazed looks of his guards.
Samus walked next to Link as they went through the empty halls of the castle towards the exit.
"Don't know how Zelda can live here, it's so empty. Guess I'm just used to the open air of the forest." Samus didn't say anything, instead listening slightly surprised how causal Link was being with her.
"We sure showed those guards what's up though! Man the look on their faces when you broke that sword. Priceless!" Link laughed crossing his arms behind his head for a moment before returning them to his sides. The hunter had to admit it was slightly humorous, the guards were clearly inexperienced and needed to see how strong some people out there were.
Link stopped walking for a moment, the hunter followed suite looking at the hero curiously. Scratching the back of his head Link appeared uncertain for a second before speaking.
"Listen Aran, I was kind of an asshole to you in the past, and I'm sorry. I let the competition get to me, and I admit you kind of freaked me out with how strong you are." Samus stayed silent, letting Link continue.
"So if you want to start over, I'd like a chance to not be an asshole. Maybe be friends, I mean any friend of Zelda's is one of mine….Ugh, I suck at this apologising stuff! What I'm trying to say is sorry for being an asshole, wanna be friends?" Link held out his hand looking ruffled but determined.
Samus took it without hesitation, why she did the hunter didn't know, but the thought of having a friend in the hero left a pleasant feeling in the hunter.
"Whew! Now that awkwardness is done with come on let me show you around Castle Town since Miss this kingdom is my life probably hasn't had the time to show you." Link gave Samus another playful punch before motioning her to follow him. Having no other plans the hunter followed him, having the feeling it would be interesting hanging around the hero.
"We definitely should get a drink I know a place run by a Goron…" Link continued on talking about things they could do in the town, Samus staying silent letting him ramble on. It was definitely going to be interesting day.
"That was awesome! Remind me never to play poker against you." The hero exclaimed, shoving the several rupees the two heroes won in his pocket. In Link's vain attempts to get Samus to take off her helmet and have a drink with him. The two had somehow been pulled into a card game with a couple of hylians at a bar.
A game their opponents were hard pressed to win when Samus was like a brick wall. There was no way to tell if the hunter was bluffing, and that left the two heroes leaving the bar with a couple hundred rupees.
The sun had long since retired from the sky. The moon illuminating the small town from above as the two heroes walked through the empty streets.
"Next time you have to have a drink! I know Zelda has seen you without your helmet. It's only fair I get to see you too." The hunter shook her head, an unseen smile on her lips. At first she merely kept her helmet on because she always did. When Link humorously kept trying to get the hunter to relax she kept it on to get a rise out of the hero. It was fun, strange as it was for Samus to think that. Fun was still a foreign concept to the hunter, growing up training with the Chozo there was no time for such nonsense.
"Urgh fine! But one of these days you're not going to have that suit, and how will I know it's you. Any metal suit wearing crazy could pass off as you." Samus tilted her head, as if anyone could have power armor like hers. Link seemed to sense the look the hunter was giving him and he laughed.
"Zelda's right you are hard to argue with. I better head back home, it was fun today let's do it again sometime metalhead." The hero bade Samus goodbye heading back to the ranch he lived at. Samus herself began walking back to the castle.
Castle Town certainly rose with the sun, this late at night the town was empty. Everyone having gone to bed, and every business closed its doors except for a bar and an inn. It was peaceful, crickets were chirping, fireflies fluttered in the air around Samus, attracted to the light that came from the hunter's visor.
It had been quite a while since Samus visited such a peaceful world. Ever since the destruction of Zebes Samus had been hunting down the last of the pirate forces that escaped the planet destruction. Before the events of the B.S.L. station of course, but Samus prefered not to think of that now.
Walking up the path to the castle something caught the hunter's eye. Off the main path a soft light brought Samus' gaze to a small tunnel in the hillside. The hunter approached the hole, she saw something bright disappear down the tunnel. Never one to not investigate the unknown Samus went into her morph ball rolling through the tunnel.
It wasn't long, and soon Samus found it opening up to larger chamber. Out of her morph ball the hunter scanned the area. It was a small cave of seemingly nothing of interest except for one thing.
A fountain, it glowed with crystal clear water at the center of the chamber. Samus glanced around, there was no one here. Walking over to the fountain Samus looked at the water below. Nothing of interest there, it was just clear water.
Scans coming up with nothing, the hunter leaned down touching the water's surface. It rippled, then at the fountain's center there was a small flash.
Out of the water a small ball of light flew from the fountain. It wasn't a ball of light though, Samus saw small fragile wings carrying the small being. The small creature flew over to the hunter cautiously. Instinctively Samus scanned the creature to see if it was a threat. Scans came up with nothing though, and the small being flew a little closer.
It jumped back when Samus shifted to stand making a tiny gasp. Trying to appear non-threatening Samus held out her hand.
"I won't hurt you," Samus calmly spoke, inwardly thinking it was nice to voice her intentions instead of having to wait until one decided she wasn't a threat. The creature calmed at her words fluttering back to the hunter.
Samus felt the small creature settle on the palm of her hand. Though she couldn't see it through the light that illuminated it, she felt the creature's gaze on her.
"You're hurt," a tiny feminine voice spoke with confidence. Samus' eyebrow rose, the hunter wasn't hurt she still had a few fractures and a bruise or two from her last mission, but otherwise she was fine.
Wings fluttering the small creature flew off of Samus' hand, hovering in front of the hunter's visor. Again Samus scanned the creature. Nothing, her suit couldn't make heads or tails of it. A light giggle filtered through the air.
"Logic, always logic isn't it? Logic cuts through the darkness, makes sense of the world. Loss seems insignificant when the head says it is just one life among billions." Samus tilted her head, wondering what the small being was talking about. Its words struck a cord though, it was like the creature knew of Samus' past and all the people she had lost.
Before Samus could even think how to form the words of the questions she wanted to ask the creature fluttered in the air moving away from the hunter. It flew back to the center of the fountain giggling softly.
"You are hurt, but healing. Don't let happiness slip away." With a flash the creature disappeared only a small ripple in the water gave any sign that there had been something there. Eyebrows furrowed Samus reached into the fountain again, nothing just water.
Rubbing the back of her helmet, Samus blinked making sure she wasn't dreaming or something. Shaking her head Samus turned heading out of the chamber, and back onto the path to Hyrule Castle.
She would have to ask Zelda what the creature was, she would no doubt know. Thinking of the creature's words caused Samus to falter in her walk. It told her to not let happiness to slip away, what was it talking about? Was it referring to Samus' own happiness? The hunter was confused, she was content right now. She was staying with her closest friend on a peaceful world, and while circumstances that brought her here were odd. The hunter was glad she was here. Was the creature trying to tell her not to leave Hyrule?
Preposterous, sure the hunter knew she was welcomed to visit if she pleased, but the hunter couldn't stay here. She had a duty to protect the galaxy, although when Samus thought of going back to her world a pang of apprehension came to her. That feeling of exhaustion came back thinking of what horror she would end up facing next.
Samus scolded herself she had to keep fighting. If she stopped protecting her world she would fail to keep the promise made with her Chozo family to keep the galaxy safe. The hunter remembered swearing it to her long passed family after she had recovered her power suit on her zero mission.
The hunter continued walking back to the castle. She had to keep fighting, what else was there for her.
Back in the castle the Queen had already retired to bed, but her sleep was less than restful.
A ear piercing screech assaulted Zelda's hearing. It was dark, and the royal was running. Another screech made the royal flinch her feet stumbling. The royal fell to the ground spinning around onto her back to see the monster chasing her.
A rush of air blew by, and a large figure landed in front of her. Bathed in shadow Zelda could only make out two yellow eyes glaring down at her. Massive jaws opened letting out another screech.
A massive clawed hand slammed down pinning Zelda to the ground between its sharp talons. Zelda knew she should fight, but her mind was racing. She couldn't focus, fear was clouding her mind.
Just as the monster was raising its other hand to bring an end to the royal everything faded away, and Zelda found herself lying on a platform made of light. Slowly she sat up looking around, there was nothing just blackness in every direction. A low laugh echoed through the darkness, Zelda snapped up taking a fighting stance.
"Again you peer into things you do not understand." A thousands voices came from everywhere, Zelda spun around trying to find a source. Only to be meet with more darkness.
"Don't you tire of the endless cycle your goddesses have imposed upon you. To be reborn a thousands times to defeat an evil that will only return again." Zelda's eyes narrowed, continuing to scan for a source of the voice. The voice was silent waiting for Zelda to answer.
"If someone threatens my home or friends I will defeat them. No matter how many times evil decides to resurface." Finally the royal answered, after it was clear the voice would only return once she answered.
"You claim to be a person of peace, yet you speak of fighting. I only want perfection, our goals are the same." Zelda shook her head glaring at the darkness around her.
"I don't want perfection."
"You want peace, peace will come with perfection." Out of the darkness a light came forth. A human shaped figure took shape, their body transparent a blue green hue covering their skin.
"You will oppose me." The being stated, there was no emotion in its voice. It was just stating a fact. Yet the world around rippled the darkness shifting, closing in surrounding the royal. The only light came from the god-like being.
"Your foresight makes you an interloper. You cannot remember what the future will bring." The being hovered closer to Zelda, and the royal tried to use her magic to attack it. Only nothing happened no fire came from her hand, and the Zelda's eyes widened upon the realization.
"You wish to continue in your cycle of death then do so and suffer for it." The being reached out its hand hovering over the royal's head. Zelda screamed, her world going dark.
The castle was rather quiet at night, Samus noted. During the day nobles and servants bustled about through the halls. At night though the long halls of the castle were empty, nothing but an occasional mouse scurrying across the floor could be seen.
Sleep never came easy to Samus, so the hunter had purposely not returned to the guest room. She was so used to not sleeping that it would take awhile for her to relax enough to fall asleep, even then it was often restless.
Samus passed by Zelda's study just to be sure the royal had went to bed herself. The hunter had already come across the royal asleep at her desk one night. Since then Samus checked the study at night to make sure the Queen wasn't over doing it.
Zelda wasn't there tonight, so the Queen must already be sleeping. Closing the study door softly Samus turned continuing to patrol the halls. It calmed the hunter's nerves to check the empty castle for threats. Samus wasn't used to being somewhere where death didn't wait around every corner.
It was extremely late by the time Samus decided to at least returned to the guest room. On her way there hurried footsteps echoed through the hall. A servant came rushing down the hall running straight into the hunter.
Samus quickly caught the flustered servant's wrist stopping them from stumbling back and falling. She let go and the servant stuttered an apology, wringing their hands.
"What's wrong?" The young servant jumped not expecting the silent warrior to speak. Samus waited patiently for the servant to gather themselves and speak. They seemed completely on edge, worry clear on their face.
"Her majesty is in the mists of a prophetic dream. I cannot wake her, I was going to find one of the older maids. I heard her crying out I wasn't sure what else to do." The servants words were rushed, they fidgeted wanting to hurry off to find some help.
"I'll wake her, go relax." The hunter commanded, her tone leaving no arguments. Not that there were any, the servant nodded rushing off. Samus quickly made her way to the royal's room. The hunter was about to open the door she knew to be Zelda's when she paused.
Should she really intrude upon Zelda's space like this? Perhaps the servant had the right idea, she should let one of Zelda's maid tend to her. Samus didn't like the idea of invading the royal's personal space.
A sharp cry echoed from inside the room, and Samus' decision was made. Samus shut the door behind her as another smaller cry came from the room. The hunter would have expected a larger room with Zelda being Queen, but the room small. A dresser with an intricate mirror was on the left wall, a door leading to a bathroom next to it. Samus saw Zelda bed against the far wall, and the hunter immediately rushed over.
Zelda was thrashing around in her sleep whimpering. The hunter reached out to touch her shoulder to try and wake her, but Zelda jerked away.
"No, no more." Zelda curled away from the hunter's hand continuing to mutter in her sleep. Samus noticed the triforce glowing brightly on Zelda's hand, the royal let out another cry jerking the royal's hands clutched her head. She muttered something about twilight and a something that sounded like the great sea.
Samus had to wake her, the hunter's visor told her that Zelda's pulse and heart rate were far too rapid for a normal nightmare. Gently Samus took Zelda's hands holding them firmly. The royal writhed trying to get away.
"Zelda," Samus called, Zelda only continued to struggle in a vain attempt to break away from the hunter's grasp. Samus frowned, how did Zelda so easily wake her from her nightmare before.
This wasn't working Zelda was going to hurt herself trying to break free from her. Letting go Samus watched to royal jerked away from her continuing to whimper and mutter in sleep.
"Zelda, wake up." This time Samus gently took the royal in her arms holding her close. At first Zelda struggled trying to escape what her nightmare corrupted mind probably thought was some assailant trying to hurt her. Eventually her struggles ceased, and she let out a small whimper.
The hunter let out an internal sigh of relief when the royal calm slightly. Zelda hands tried to take hold of the hunter's armor, finding no purchase to clutch. The royal's arms slipped around Samus' waist. Samus scanned the royal to see her heart rate returning to an acceptable rate.
The nightmare ending the hunter assumed she should leave before the royal actually woke. Samus tried to lay her back down on the bed, but Zelda clutched the hunter tightly refusing to let go.
Samus knew she shouldn't stay, but Zelda looked so small and delicate. It seemed wrong to leave the royal when just a minute ago she was wrapped up in some horrid dream's game. Samus of all people knew what kind of terrors could haunt people while they slept.
Zelda looked different in sleep, wearing a simple nightgown it was a stark contrast to the normally beautiful dresses she wore. The royal's hair was down, falling down her back in gentle waves. She seemed to be resting peacefully now the nightmare gone from her subconscious.
Samus wasn't sure how the royal could be comfortable curled up against Samus' metal armor, but Zelda was sleeping without a care. Since it seemed she was to Zelda's teddy bear until the royal decided to let go, the hunter concentrated. Her suit glowed softly, and soon it dematerialized as if it was never truly there.
Not many knew Samus' suit was literally a part of her, biomechanical would be what a scientist would dub it. Advance technology made by the chozo the suit stayed if Samus willed it to, though this took so much concentration and discipline. That even if someone had a power suit ingrained within them. They wouldn't have the knowledge or skill to use it.
When the suit was deactivated the only thing left behind were chozo symbols emblazoned on Samus' hands and back. Zelda murmured something, but didn't wake from the change. The least Samus could do was make the royal more comfortable, and she doubted Zelda would rest pleasantly for long against Samus' suit.
Without her suit Samus was wearing just a simple sleeveless top and shorts, it would be too cumbersome to wear anything more with the power suit over it. Adjusting Zelda in her arms Samus leaned back against the headboard continuing to let the royal cling to her.
All this seemed so surreal, laying in bed with Zelda. The royal sleeping peacefully curled up against the hunter. Samus knew she could easily get out of the royal's grasp if she wanted to, or she could simply shout and wake her. It seemed like a crime to even think such thoughts though.
Slowly Samus' eyes slide closed, the sound of Zelda's even breaths lulling her to sleep. In the back of her mind Samus thought she should stay awake, so when Zelda's hold on her loosen she could quietly leave. Samus had never felt so at peace before though, she was fast asleep before the thought could ever return.
The next morning the hunter woke before Zelda, and quietly slipped away before the royal stirred.
A.N. This chapter can also be called the hug it out chapter, so much fluff before Brawl decides to come in and wreck everything!XD This chapter though, this freaking chapter guys despite being a blast to write has been the bane of my existence. When I originally planned out this chapter I could have written a whole separate story with how much I wanted to put in here. I was going to keep the interlude contained into two chapters, but I do have a third chapter that I'm still on the fence on whether to include it or just continue on into Brawl. You'll find out next time with that I remember I promised a rant about my thoughts on the Galactic Federation, and while I would love to rant about them I'm going to hold off for another chapter or two because this note is already long without my rantingsXD.
On a final note before I leave you lovely people I have begun to consider making a sequel to this story. I know I haven't even finished this, but I'm actually on chapter 21 of this story. I'm just really slow at editing…. Anyway I have this story and planned out and finished in my head, so I've begun to think beyond this story, and I just love this little universe I've created so much that I might continue it.
I'm not sure yet we'll see how satisfied I am with the ending, and I'll go from there. With that reviews are loved and I'll see you guys next chapter.