Inspiration: The town square and introspection.

Author Note: Thank you for reading.

Word Count: 5,772

Chapter 4

Later that morning, Castle Town, Saria

I went to the stable and took out Maxere on my own since Sar was already gone. I knew if I asked, Link would have done it for me too. However, after the conversation we had at breakfast, I think it was best just to leave him alone for now. In any such case, I went about my day. I headed for the open planes of Hyrule and did a slow trot to the Castle Town bridge. I still had an hour before the city was open to the provinces. I giddied Maxere around the perimeter of the field to get her legs going. She still had her gusto. She was as wonderful a horse as ever. She even made me confident enough to jump over a few bundles of foliage scattered about the field. She did so with ease. That last pass proved her strength more than ever. The only horse who could best her in my opinion was Epona.

"Good girl," I said, petting her mane.

As the hour ticked away, I turned to see the bridge beginning to open. Seven hours after midnight on the dot. The gatekeeper was admirably prompt. Even so, how was I going to spend the rest of my time today when I left Castle Town? There was only so much shopping I could do, and I had a whole day to fill. I guess I would cross that bridge when I got to it, as the Hylian saying goes. Nevertheless, I was taking a big risk going to Castle Town. The castle itself was in the northern most square, and if the queen felt my presence, she would summon me. However, if I treaded softly and kept a low profile, I could probably blend in with the crowd and not be detected. I needed to keep my sage powers imperceptible. That was what I was going to do. I was going to blend in with the town's folk. I could use the time to buy some goods for an excellent supper for Link. He might not approve right away, but I believe once he had more of my cooking, he would come around. There was another Hylian saying that deduced: a way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Link loved to hunt, but he also loved to eat. I remember cooking meals for him in the forest when he was a child. He liked game, poultry, fish –so it wouldn't be difficult creating a meal for him. And, if I get back before nightfall, perhaps we could watch the star shower together. Maybe I could make amends for making him feel so uncomfortable initially. I needed to take this reunion slow, but I also needed him to be aware that I was there for him if he needed me.

I just have to prove myself…

With a plan of action underway, I rode Maxere to Hyrule bridge. Fortunately, there was an outside stable for horses. I paid thirty rupees to have my stallion temporarily housed. She neighed, but I promised to return sooner than later. I then placed my cloak over my head to cover my green tresses, only to realize the bottom of my ponytail was still showing. It was just as well. I had to work with what I had. Anyway, I made my way across the bridge and into the town. I noticed a locked door to the right of the entrance that had a post stating that it was only open at night. I wondered what the patron sold there. The sign read: Guard House.

"Interesting," I uttered aloud.

I had to leave my curiosity for another time. I walked down the cobblestone street, still in awe of how marvelous Castle Town truly was: stone, wood, and mortar were its edifices. My brethren, the Kokiri, would love this place if they were allowed to leave the forest. Unfortunately, they weren't, so I would have to vicariously experience it for them. I hoped to see a few of my old friends on this trip. Notwithstanding the present, I entered the main square and saw a plethora of shops. It was a bit overwhelming. I couldn't determine where I should go first. There was: the Bazaar, the Happy Mask Shop, the Bombmochu Bowling Alley, the Medicine Shop, the Treasure Chest Shop, and the Shooting Gallery. I looked around puzzled. Was this it?

Do any of these vendors sale food?

I was flummoxed in how the people of Castle Town stayed nourished. Where did the citizens get their sustenance? However, it seemed my doubt was premature. Suddenly, I saw a caravan of people come into the main square to set up shops. These folks were apparently smaller vendors acting as food purveyors, unlike the brick and mortars permanently residing here. I watched in wonder as they set up their carts, wagons, or stands. Each had their own marquee: ales, vegetables, fish, oils, et cetera . When the majority were done, most of the patrons began seeking out customers. There weren't many people in the main square at this time, just a few early birds roving about. So, many of the owners turned their attention to me. Their eyes were like darts. I froze for a moment when I saw how many people were abruptly vying for my attention.

"Dear Farore," I whispered to myself.

Then it began.

"Miss! Miss! May I interest you in some sundries? These are the best in Hyrule. One sundry basket is the equivalent of one week's toiletries! Come on over to Sol's Sundries and have a look!"

Another called to me from another direction.

"My lady, are you looking for fresh vegetables for your meal tonight? Well, have I got a garden variety for you! Step on by Vera's Vegetable Cart and come see our selection! Pumpkins or turnips, tomatoes or carrots, herbs or spices, we have it all!"

And yet another spoke up.

"Is your belly in knots? Do you have a hard time with digestion? Well, do I have the concoction for you! Healing Potion #9 not only cures your gas, it also prevents you from smelling like an ass! That is… like a donkey! Come and get your Healing Potion #9 today!"

I raised a brow. I wasn't too sure that pitch was going to be effective. Smelling like an ass? But, admittedly it was an attention getter. Even so, the patrons carried on.

"Pumpkin goods! Get your pumpkin goods here! Smashed pumpkin, boiled pumpkin, jarred pumpkin, candied pumpkin! Get your pumpkin goods here!"

"Spices! We have every spice from every region! Goron spice! Ore spice! Gerudo spice! Kakariko satay! Don't be a stranger when your satay is in danger! Spices!"

"Salted royal elk filets! Her majesty was kind enough to allow our hunters on her land to reduce the excessive game she has accumulated! Come experience the best meat in Hyrule for your supper tonight! Royal elk filets salted to perfection!"

I stepped back trying to take it all in. I didn't know where to go first. The royal elk would have been impressive, but I didn't want to come off too strong in my first dinner. Perhaps I could save the royal elk for a more special occasion. So, where would I go first? I then decided on the easiest method of execution, I went to the vendor closest to me. It was a salted fish stand. The vendor was eyeing me conspicuously as I approached. I stopped short to read his marquee: Falbi's Fish.

"Good morning my beautiful jewel of the green lands," the patron greeted. "We have the best salted fish in Hyrule. How can I help you?"

His greeting was very kind. I had almost forgotten how charming Hylians can be.

"Good morning," I replied, then perked when I saw his selection. "Wow, this looks incredible."

I saw porgy, sea bass, and trout. Salted sea bass soup would be perfect for dinner tonight, with some fresh made bread. A bed of greens would tie everything together. I decided on my menu from the proteins in front of me.

That would be perfect.

I pointed to the sea bass.

"Can I have four of those please?" I asked.

He appeased me with no problems.

"Of course," the patron said, "would you like them individually wrapped?"

I nodded.

"Yes please."

The patron had no qualms, and wrapped four salted sea bass individually with Deku leaves. He was about to hand them to me, when he realized I didn't have a bag.

"No basket today miss?" he asked.

I hadn't thought to bring one.

"I'm afraid not."

He went to remedy that.

"Would you like a basket?" he asked.

I was grateful for his astuteness.

"Yes please," I replied.

From under his cart he produced a wicker basket. It was wide and deep, perfect for shopping. With that, he tallied up my total, one hundred fifty rupees. The price of the bag was added. It was a good thing I had an infinite supply of electrum rupees and rupees in general. I handed the patron an electrum rupee, but then he stared at me stunned.

"Do you have anything smaller than this?" he asked.

I then looked back into my satchel and handed him two silver rupees instead.

"Is this better?" I asked.

He gave me a slightly offhanded look while he handed back my electrum rupee.

"Yes."

I smiled.

"Perfect."

The patron stared at me for a good minute, then decided to give me a bit of advice. "You're not from around here, are you?"

I guess it was pretty obvious.

"No, I'm not."

He chuckled.

"I thought so, otherwise I would have noticed a face as beautiful as yours before today," he complimented. "If you walk around with as much money as you have, you have got to remember to be inconspicuous. You could get robbed."

I stared at him surprised, but knew he was right.

"Has there been an uptick in robberies as of late?" I asked anyway.

He shook his head.

"No," he replied, "but you don't want to be the start of such. The people are prospering well under queen Zelda, but grimy folks are still grimy folks."

I understood that all to well, then thanked him.

"I appreciate your words of wisdom kind sir," I replied. "I will learn the ways of the world a bit more." He grinned at me and was about to give me a purple rupee for my change, but I shook my head. "Keep it, think of it as an advice fee."

He looked at me surprised, but then showed his appreciation.

"You're welcome anytime. When you come back to town, the next fish is free."

I smiled.

"I'll hold you to it."

He nodded.

"Please do."

With that, I waved and went on. I headed over to a vegetable cart. The cart had all types of green vegetables, perfect for the salad I wanted to make with the soup. The owner was a weathered looking middle aged woman. She had a kind smile, and despite her leathery sun kissed skin, she had the most sparkling green eyes I ever did see. I walked up to her cart.

"Good morning lass," she greeted me. "How can I help you?"

"Good morning," I greeted back. "I would like four bushels of your mixed greens."

The woman nodded.

"Certainly," she said, "any special occasion you're preparing for?"

I shrugged.

"I am preparing supper for a friend."

The lady grinned and gave me an obvious look.

"A male suitor perhaps?" she pressed.

I inadvertently blushed.

"Well… I wouldn't say suitor…"

The lady laughed.

"You are just in luck, I'm giving fifteen percent off my vegetable cart today for all referrals to my friend who sells potions! I think you're in need of a love potion my dear. No man would be able to resist you if you had a love potion."

I gave her a bewildered look.

"A love potion?" I repeated.

The lady had already bundled my greens and handed them to me.

"I tell you no lies. The potions work, just ask for Agatha."

I wasn't sure what to make of all this.

"Uh… I'll think about it," I said. "How much do I owe you?"

The lady smiled.

"Seventy rupees."

My head bucked back.

For greens for a salad?

"That's with your discount?" I inquired.

The lady had no qualms.

"These are the best greens in Castle Town, and yes, that is with the discount."

I had my doubts, but paid the till anyway.

I think I just got 'hustled' as the Hylians say…

"Thank you," I said anyway, and moved on.

I had no intention of going to the 'gas ass' cart and asking for Agatha. If that last patron were any barometer, then the first vendor I met was right, I needed to be more careful. In any such case, I shopped with more discretion when I bought the rest of my goods. The spices were only what I needed. The herbs were fresh, but I wasn't getting pulled in to another nonsensical deal. I bought enough flour and butter for tonight, but decided I might make a dessert as well. I knew Link loved apple pie, so I bought some apples, spices for the pie, sugar, and butter. I couldn't wait to see his face when supper was ready. I wouldn't need a love potion if my cooking was stellar. I was just about finished with my shopping in Castle Town, when more people started funneling in. The square was starting to bustle, but I did notice a hooded man enter the main square as well. He looked more conspicuous than he had any reason to. Perhaps I was coming off the same way. Even so, something about him made me cautious and I concluded my business for the morning. I gathered my basket of goods and headed back to the bridge. It seemed my radar was a bit more astute than I thought, because at my leaving he waited for a moment and soon followed after me. I began to walk faster, but I couldn't shake him. Who was this fellow?

Dear Farore… what have I gotten myself into now?

~SSS~

Caroline

I am grateful for my life. I am grateful for the people in my life. I have vowed never to take life for granted. That is why I am so thankful for the blessings of the goddess. By all rights and purposes, I should not be living. However, my mother gave her existence to sustain mine. My mother died giving birth to me. My father never liked talking about it, but he told me my mother would want me to live my life to the fullest. My father had the fondest memories of my mother and told me I was just like her. That was probably why I resonated so well with my fiancé Sar. His life experience was something similar. His mother may not have passed away under the same circumstances, but her death was analogous enough for me to understand him. He often talked of how wonderful she was too. Though our circumstances of tragedy helped us understand each other, we didn't live in melancholy. It was quite the opposite actually. Our mothers wouldn't want us to.

Sar was the kindest most understanding man I had ever met. We were adolescents when we first met, only sixteen years old. I remember seeing him for the very first time with his father, the great hero Link, in my village, Kakariko Village to be exact, selling milk and dairy goods. I couldn't pretend that I didn't think he was the most handsome boy in the world. I did. After all, he did look like his father. However, when I got to know him that was where the similarities ended. Sar was outgoing and vivacious, while his father was reserved and quiet. Sar was quite the salesman, which was probably why his father allowed him to do most of the talking. I walked up to their cart, not necessarily wanting to purchase anything, but to see who this redheaded character was. I was glad I did, and I even convinced my father to buy some of their milk. Sar told me I was much obliged, and that it was the best milk in Hyrule. However, I told him I hoped to see him again whether he was selling milk or not. He was surprised I was so frank, but said he intended to.

The father son duo returned week after week and that was when Sar and I became fast friends. I could tell he was starting to like me as much as I liked him. One day he came to the village without his father and asked me if I would like to go for a horseback ride. My father and I were very poor, so we did not have a horse. Equestrian activities unfortunately escaped us. I was so excited that Sar wanted to take me on a ride. I asked my father, who only allowed me to go if the riding was right outside the village entrance and where he could chaperone us. I readily agreed, and Sar had no issue with my father coming with us, which impressed upon me he wasn't looking for a 'good time girl'. My father was impressed with him too, and over the years he began to think of him like his own son. I was hoping that would become a reality sooner rather than later.

Unfortunately, it was later, as Sar and I had been 'friends' for many years before he asked me to marry him. I was initially concerned with his prolonged forbearance, but he informed me he wanted to have his own place and business established before he asked for my hand. He was going to inherit the ranch someday, but he wanted to establish his own name outside of his father. I imagine it was hard being the hero's son, seeing that Link was such a great and respected man. However, I think Sar was pretty wonderful in his own right. I believe he took the lessons his father taught him and used them to better himself as a man, but never forgot the wonderful caring nature of his beloved mother. When Sar spoke of his mother, he spoke of someone quite special. I could tell from how his eyes lit up, that she was someone extraordinary. He at least had the chance to get to know his mother for fifteen years, so his memories were fond. I wish I had known my mother, but when I saw photos of her I realized I looked like her. I had her blonde hair and big green eyes. I also had her smile and dimples. My father often told me I was her twin.

My father, whose name is Pierre, respected the hero more than any man in the kingdom, even over the king. So, when he learned Sar wanted my hand in marriage, he was all for it. I was ecstatic when Sar proposed, but I think my father was even happier. Like the hero, my father never remarried. When my mother died that was it for him. I wanted my father to marry again, but he had no interest. In a way, I esteemed how much my father and the hero loved their wives. It wasn't just a cavalier love affair with them. They had deep seeded love for those women, and I hoped to be a wife worthy of that kind of love too. Sar was my biggest inspiration in life to be a better person. He wanted to better himself for me and I wanted to be better for him. We were a team now, and I wanted to continue being such for the rest of my life with him. I loved him so, and that was why moments like today were so special. Even so, my father and the hero needed to think of life beyond the past. They may have unintentionally been sabotaging their futures.

Currently, we were on our way to Zora Falls. I had never been to Zora Falls, though I always wanted to go. This was the first time Sar and I were able to see each other in weeks. There was so much to do with planning the wedding, that our schedules were out of synchronization. We hadn't properly taken out the time to see each other recently. We knew we would have the rest of our lives, but time before the wedding was important too. We weren't simply planning for a wedding, we were planning our marriage, our future. I didn't want a day to overshadow the importance of our commitment to each other. That was something we had to work on daily. Nevertheless, the fauna surrounding our trek into the Zora hills was extraordinary: moss, algae, sea flowers, and cool saffron littered the countryside. It looked like a place of enchantment. I wondered if there was a fairy fountain nearby. The surroundings made the anticipation for the falls that much greater. I heard water in the distance, so I knew we were close.

"It's so beautiful up here Sar," I uttered.

Sar turned and looked at me.

"The hike is half the experience, but wait until you see the actual falls itself," he said. "There's nothing like it in all of Hyrule. Our destination is just over that ridge."

My expectations were naturally heightened. The ridge led past the entrance to Zoras Domain, but not quite in it. The domain was not as open to visitors as it once had been in the past. There were a series of unfortunate events that led to the Zoras isolating themselves more recently. Some Hylian and Zoran relations went aright, along with King Zora becoming more despondent to the world. This primarily had to do with the great princess Ruto awakening as a sage and disappearing from this world, as well as Jabu Jabu having a taken a turn for the worst. The giant deity was slowly losing his powers and fading from this world. That was what the rumors stated at least. I had no way of confirming. King Zora was quite sensitive to the plight of his people and family. The isolation of the kingdom may have been more of a reflection of the king himself. However, he did allow visitors to visit the outskirts of the domain. The Zora people more or less followed the example of their king, but there were a few rebellious fish folk who preferred the freedom of exploration. My heart went out to the king, as his life seemed mundane as of late. I hoped he found happiness again. Something in this life was still worth living for.

In the interim, we walked over the ridge under the waterfall to an alcove where several waterfalls were cascading together. It was so beautiful. It looked like a whole different world beneath the awning. Close behind us, but not directly in our sight, was my father. He was our chaperone and fortunately took the day off from tending to his shop to accompany us. We sold blankets, wheat, and sugar cane in our village. Our farm was small, perhaps not even big enough to be called a farm –a garden was a better description. But, we cultivated enough to make a living. My father was the same age as the hero, forty-three. His dusky blonde hair and bright blue eyes had wrinkles of wisdom around them, but he was still very strong. I admired my father for his strong values and sense of responsibility. I did hope he would give love another chance one day and settle down again. I so wanted him to be happy. Life was too short to live in melancholy.

All I want is your contentment papa…

Father stayed more on his own, while Sar and I opened a blanket and sat down for our picnic lunch under the falls. I marveled as I looked around.

"This place is incredible," I couldn't help but whisper.

Sar agreed.

"When I first came here with father, I knew I wanted to bring you."

I smiled up at him.

"That's thoughtful."

Sar was still looking around.

"My father brought my mother here shortly after they got married," he revealed.

That made it even more special.

"I'm not surprised," I said. "Your father may be quiet, but he seems like the romantic type. I can tell from his chivalry."

Sar then sat down next to me.

"Yeah," he said, "you're right, he is the romantic type. He always did something special for my mother on celebratory occasions."

I could sense his adoration.

"Kind of like his son," I whispered.

Sar turned to look at me.

"Yeah," he replied, "kind of like me."

Normally, I would have reached up and kissed him, but my father was in plain sight of us. There would be no kissing today. Instead, I reached over and grabbed his hand. Sar understood and squeezed it affectionately.

"I love you," I whispered.

He caressed my cheek.

"I love you too," he whispered back.

The surroundings could not have been more perfect. The area where we were sitting appeared blue, with castings of nautical light shining off the formations. It was a perfect place for lovers, or for appreciating nature, or for both. I then opened the basket and handed Sar a wild turkey sandwich. I made the bread and roasted the meat myself. He took it obligingly.

"Thank you," he said.

"I hope you like it," I said.

He wasn't concerned.

"I'm sure it's perfect."

His confidence made me smile.

"How is your father these days?" I asked changing the subject.

Sar shrugged.

"Same old goat."

I chuckled.

"Be gracious," I said, "your father means well."

He nodded.

"I know," he said, "I just wish he would lighten up. He is so serious."

I had no disagreement with him there.

"That is true."

Sar took a bite of his sandwich.

"But… I am hopeful for him as of late."

I took a bite too.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

Sar swallowed before he spoke.

"An old friend recently came to town."

I stared at him intrigued.

"An old friend?"

He nodded.

"Yes."

"Who?" I asked.

Sar took another bite.

"Her name is Aria and she visited my family before," he disclosed. "You remember when I told you about her."

I was surprised at hearing this.

"You mean… this is the same person who came and visited you when you were a little boy?"

He nodded.

"Yes."

My surprise never went away.

"When… when did she come?"

He looked over at me.

"She just arrived," he said.

I did have a hint of concern, especially with that glint in his eyes.

"What are you surmising?"

He shrugged again.

"Nothing," he said, "I just think the goddesses have a funny way of answering prayers."

I gave him an offhanded look.

"And what prayers would those be?"

Sar looked to the falls once more.

"I don't want him to become a recluse," he said suddenly. "I don't want him to become embittered with life. Mother wouldn't want that for him."

I understood his concern.

"That's because you care about him. Don't forget, we can always visit him after we get married."

Sar shook his head.

"That isn't going to be enough. My father wouldn't want us to visit him all the time simply to do so. He wants us to have our own life."

I was quiet for a moment.

"Is this where your prayers come into play?" I asked. "Are you suggesting this Aria woman is an answer to them?"

Sar gave me a knowing look before opening the basket and pulling out a couple grapes.

"I think she is," he admitted. "When I was a boy, she brought our family so much happiness. I'll never forget the impression she had on me. I… I never told you this, but I think my father knew her once long ago."

I stared at him surprised.

"Why do you think that?"

Sar looked away again.

"I could tell by the way he interacted with her," he revealed. "He kept his distance on purpose out of respect for my mother. However, I always had a feeling he knew her in some way."

That disclosure left me slightly uneasy.

"You realized that at ten?"

He gave me an obvious look.

"I still have perception Caroline, even when I was a boy."

I still didn't share his optimism.

"She wasn't coming to cause problems in your family, was she?"

He shook his head.

"No, I told you, she was kind to all of us, including my mother," he said. "My mother really liked her."

Even so, something about this seemed strange.

"What made her come and visit now?" I asked.

Sar didn't have an answer for that.

"I don't really know," he said honestly. "She said she was here on business, but I reckon she came back for other reasons."

I didn't have to be a genius to understand what he was implying.

"Your father being those 'other reasons'?" I asked.

He stared into my eyes again.

"You have to meet her Caroline," he whispered. "She's so perfect for father."

I was slightly taken aback at his presumption.

"Sar… that is quite the leap."

He didn't think so.

"Father needs to court again," he said directly. "He needs to stop living in the past and realize life goes on. He could have been married ten times over by now. He could have found a girl like my mother if he tried. There are maidens our age who are even smitten with him. He could simply ask any nobleman of any house to court their daughter. They would gladly say yes. What's wrong with helping him understand that?"

I thought he was being a bit too hard on his father.

"I understand your concern Sar, but is that what he wants?" I asked. "No one wants love forced on them."

He knew I was right.

"It's not about forcing him," he said anyway. "It's about helping him see that loneliness is not the answer. Father is stubborn, he won't do this alone. I've got to help him."

I wasn't so sure.

"And you think this Aria is the answer?"

He nodded.

"I do, and once you meet her you will see it too."

I raised a brow.

"You're quite confident in that supposition. What if I don't see her quite the way you do?"

He fanned my inquiry off.

"Once you meet her you'll be eating those words."

I grinned.

"You really are presumptuous when you want to be. Now you have me intrigued. I can't wait to meet this mystery woman."

He returned my grin.

"I know you think I'm being hyperbolic, but there is a serenity about her that is magnetic. You'll see."

I found his description of her interesting.

"Serenity… sounds fascinating."

It was then my father interjected from the distance.

"Haven't you tried this before and it didn't turn out well?"

Sar and I both turned to look at him. We were surprised at how closely he was paying attention to our conversation without opining until now.

"I beg your pardon?" Sar asked.

Father gave Sar an obvious look.

"You heard what I said. Haven't you tried this before only for it to fail?"

Sar groaned and rolled his eyes.

"Yes, but my father was gracious to the young lady anyway," he admitted. "He knew what I was up to when I brought her home to show her the horses."

I giggled at my fiancé's explanation. "You're proving his point."

"Let him be," father stated.

Sar then turned back to me.

"Your father is just like him," he whispered. "It's no wonder he doesn't want us getting any ideas. He's afraid we'll do the same for him."

I giggled once more, and my father interjected again.

"I heard that," he said. "If your father wants to court again, he will do so when he is ready. Stop pressing the issue. It may be more irritating than you know."

I glanced over my shoulder at him.

"Don't worry father," I teased, "you are safe… for now."

Father gave me a knowing look and Sar chuckled.

"Perhaps we should change the subject," Sar suggested.

I agreed.

"Perhaps," I replied, then gave my father my attention. "Don't worry father, we aren't coming after you."

My father grunted.

"I'm not worried about me," he said. "My worry is for the hero. The poor man can't seem to get a break from 'well-wishers', including his own kin."

I saw his point, but was more intrigued with what Sar stated about this Aria lady. I hoped she was everything he was saying she was, otherwise my father would be right. Even so, Sar wasn't someone who spoke idly of people. If he thought this woman was of value, then she was someone special. I just hoped he was right.

Miss Aria you have a great deal to prove without even knowing it…

I rummaged through the basket and pulled out a grape myself. As I ate it, more thoughts came to me.

Sar seems to have been smitten with you, but will I? Will I have the same opinion of you as Sar does?

There was only one way to finds out, and that was to meet this woman.

Miss Aria, I hope you like surprises, because have I got a surprise for you…

I ate another grape, and with my current thoughts I felt comforted.

I hope you are ready because you have come into more than you bargained for…

I would just have to wait and see.

The next chapter will be up soon.