Author's Note: Welcome back everyone! So uh...I was gonna take a little break for a day or two before starting this chapter but I was so excited to get started on it that I didn't. And, well...I finished it a lot earlier than I expected. So here's the longest chapter yet LOL!
A few things worth nothing for understanding and clarity - there are two "new" Japanese honorifics in this chapter, '-san' and '-dono.' The first, '-san' is simply a general display of respect, something like Mr. or Ms. in English.
The second, however, '-dono' is more complicated. I could spend a few paragraphs explaining it but the important context for this story is that it is used by someone to refer to one that is of recognizably high status but is a step down from the respect that using '-sama' implies. What this ultimately boils down to is that the speaker that uses that term in this chapter recognizes the person they are addressing as important but does not necessarily view themselves as very far beneath that person in society.
Conversely, you can just think of it as a quirky way this character address others because they do it with everyone all the time and this was true in the games too.
Anyway, I hope that wasn't too confusing. If it was, sorry. But also...it'll barely matter in the end, I promise. So for now, I hope you enjoy the latest chapter! Thanks for coming back for more!
Book I - Meeting
Chapter 6 – Reunion
"You sure you'll be okay?" Link asked Zelda in a low voice.
"I will be, d-don't worry."
It was extremely early in the morning on the thirtieth moon of the Twelfth Month. Though the morning light was starting to illuminate Hateno Village, the sun itself still had yet to peek over the horizon. Today was the day Link would be setting out for the Castle to meet with Zelda's father. But Zelda herself wouldn't be going with him, something she was mostly okay with.
"And besides, she'll have me to keep her company," the soft voice of Mipha assured Link. He nodded towards her.
"I couldn't leave her in better hands." A moment later, though, Link turned back to Zelda with a warm smile. "I just want you to be safe and happy, that's all."
Zelda fought down a blush at that comment.
Link had been incredibly considerate of her lately, even more so than when she had first arrived in Hateno. It felt as if he had all but made it his mission in life to make her comfortable, whether he was out running errands or sitting across from her at the dining table. This evening, however, was the first time he would be gone overnight since she'd come to the village.
Link had responded to her father's letter the day after receiving it, agreeing to meet with him on the penultimate day of the calendar year. But, one week before the appointed date, a second letter had arrived, apologizing for the fact that the Castle could only accommodate Link alone as a guest. Zelda knew enough to read between the lines – her family didn't really want her at the Castle.
While it was likely true that the end of year party her father hosted had brought enough guests to the Castle that finding two free rooms would be rather difficult, she was also intimately familiar with those guest rooms after having been forced to live out of them for years. There was a staggering number of them and the odds that each and every one was taken were very low. No, it was far more probable that Zelda wasn't invited to the Castle simply because of Hilda.
Link had been outwardly aggravated when he'd read the second letter, scowling at it and trying to think of ways she could still come with him if she wanted to, but Zelda had quickly assured him it was okay to leave her behind. Though he had been loathe to do so, all it really took was one sentence, uttered in an unintentionally very small voice, to convince him:
"I…don't think I'm ready to go back to the Castle yet anyway…"
After that, Link didn't protest again, instead apologizing to her that he would be away overnight. She had a decent understanding of why he felt guilty.
Link had come to realize that she had nightmares rather regularly. Though she had never told him the frequency with which she experienced those terrible visions, he was well aware that she was prone to them after consoling her on the couch the day she'd met Mipha. In fact, he seemed to be able to tell just by her face in the mornings if she'd had an unpleasant dream the night before and always took it upon himself to do a little extra to raise her spirits in response. It was an unbelievably kind gesture, one that she was deeply grateful for.
To her surprise, though, when the morning of his departure came, Mipha had happily greeted them at the door, insisting that she would be spending the day and night with Zelda in his place. As they had walked towards the west end of the village to await the approaching carriage, Zelda began to wonder if Mipha had elected to come over of her own volition or if Link had requested she do it himself. Though he never admitted he had asked his best friend to keep her company, she was convinced that was the case. The calm smile on his face spoke volumes and she felt the depths of his consideration emanating from it.
He hadn't wanted her to be alone all night.
"If there's anything you need or want to buy while I'm gone, just take however many Rupees you need from the loft - Ira and Melo will be happy to help," Link told her, his voice gentle. Zelda felt her eyes widen in response, though.
"I-I couldn't…take your money like that…"
"Don't worry about it – it's just a bunch of Rupees. I'd rather you be comfortable."
"B-but…I'd feel so guilty spending what you've worked so hard to earn…" Link grinned before placing a hand atop her head and looking slightly past her.
"Mipha, if she needs anything, you're welcome to pay for it with the money upstairs too." The Zora Princess gave a mock salute.
"Understood." A moment later, her serious expression was replaced by an amused, gentle smile.
Zelda simply had to admit defeat.
"T-thank you," she murmured, gazing at him with timid eyes. He lifted his hand from her head before letting it come to rest on her shoulder.
"I just want to make sure you're taken care of while I'm gone. I'll be home tomorrow afternoon but even so, it sets my mind at ease to know you'll be alright." Zelda smiled at last.
"I'll make sure…that you come home to find me in the same condition you left me in." Link chuckled.
"I certainly hope so! Who am I going to celebrate the new year with otherwise?" Her cheeks caught fire almost immediately. He had been doing that a lot lately, saying things that made her feel inexplicably embarrassed.
"Well, as much as I'd love to celebrate with the two of you as well," Mipha added, "I'll have to leave tomorrow morning to help Father prepare for our own celebration." Zelda spoke a moment later.
"Oh, of course, t-that's perfectly fine. I seem…to remember the Zora having their own customs when greeting the new year. That's why you were never at Father's party, correct?" Mipha nodded.
"That's right. Of course, it's a bit of a blessing as well – without Link to chat with, those parties are always so stuffy. Though I do enjoy seeing the other Champions there."
As Link opened his mouth to respond, the telltale approach of a horse and carriage interrupted them. Glancing down the path that led to the village entrance, Zelda's eyes fell upon a large, extravagant coach, adorned with blue flags bearing the crest of the Royal Family.
'It seems Father has spared no expense for Link's transportation. I'm glad – at least his journey will be comfortable.'
The coachman brought the large brown horse at the front of the carriage to a stop before leaping down to the ground and approaching the trio, offering a polite bow.
"Link-sama, it's a pleasure to meet you at last. May I take your bag to the carriage for you?"
Link frowned before recollecting himself and turning fully towards him. Zelda was well aware by now that he hated to be addressed formally in any situation. He let it go this time, however, and just shook his head, offering the man a polite smile.
"No, I'll handle it myself. Thank you, though."
"Of course, Link-sama. I'll wait by the carriage and we can depart as soon as you're prepared." With that, the man hurried back and began readying the transport for the journey ahead.
"I hate it when they do that," Link sighed, lowering his voice and leaning closer to Zelda so she could hear. She felt her face heat up but managed to stay mostly in control of her response.
"I-I know being addressed formally doesn't make you very happy. But…at least he seems like a nice gentleman." Link grinned at her.
"I just hope he's not a talkative one. I'd much rather keep to myself than fake like I'm enjoying a seven-hour chat." Zelda giggled, a response that had become much more common in the last several weeks.
"You could always…tell him you're going to sleep while you travel. The interior of those coaches are fully covered anyway. If he thinks you're asleep, he won't open the connecting window between you. He…wouldn't be able to tell if you were actually awake or not." Link gazed at her in wonder.
"That…is brilliant," he insisted, smiling at her. This time she couldn't stop herself from blushing rather obviously.
"I-I'm glad…I could help." Link placed a warm hand on her shoulder again.
"Thank you; I'll make you the best desert I possibly can when I get back to show you how grateful I am."
Zelda's face was burning up now and she couldn't even manage a response.
"But…I should get going for now; I want to get there early enough to take care of everything today so I can be home on time tomorrow." Zelda nodded and gave him what she hoped was a confident smile.
"H-have a safe trip, Link."
"I will. Enjoy yourself and I'll see you tomorrow afternoon, Zelda."
"I'll…do my best to."
Link gave her shoulder a soft squeeze before stepping away, lifting his overnight bag into his arms. The Master Sword was, unsurprisingly, fastened to him already; he had explained that he never went further than the interior of the village without it. She truly believed he could overcome any challenge as long as he had that blade.
"And I'll take care of Zelda while you're gone, don't you worry," Mipha sang, appearing at her side and smiling.
"Thanks again, Mipha. I owe you."
With that, Link turned and approached the carriage, depositing his bag into the padded luggage compartment. The coachman opened the door for Link and gestured towards the interior. Before he disappeared from sight, however, Link looked back and waved to Zelda, giving her another smile. It caused her heart to skip a beat.
She timidly waved back before Link vanished into the coach. A few moments later, they set off, the horse pulling the carriage away at a brisk pace. Zelda watched as they disappeared into the forest before turning that familiar corner. And then he was gone. Not for long, of course. But it still felt…lonely. She had really come to rely on his presence recently…
"Don't worry," Mipha assured her suddenly, snapping Zelda back to reality. "He's impatient to be back at your side too, I promise." Zelda's cheeks flushed again.
"I…I-I, um…" Mipha laughed lightly.
"There's nothing to be embarrassed about; I think it's very sweet. You and Link really have warmed up to each other a lot since I first met you, Zelda."
"D-do you…really think so?"
"I'm certain. Link never looks back like that when he sets out on a trip."
Zelda felt a tiny smile appear on her face. For some reason, it really cheered her up to know he was looking forward to coming home as much as she was looking forward to greeting him again.
"Now," Mipha continued, clapping her hands, "why don't we head inside? It's freezing out here this morning!" Zelda smiled at her new friend and nodded.
"L…let's. Link and I had some breakfast before you arrived earlier; I'd be happy to put some together for you as well."
Thanks to Zelda's suggestion, Link had a wonderfully peaceful trip to the Castle. In the past, some of the coachmen would open that small window between their exterior seat and the interior to chat with him. Though he didn't enjoy extended small talk with strangers, he never found it within himself to be rude enough to tell them to stop talking to him. So Zelda's idea to say he was going to sleep for the journey came as a very welcome stroke of genius.
He did actually nod off for a short time – it was extremely early in the morning after all. But he wanted to make sure to get to the Castle early enough that nothing would impact his return to Hateno the next day.
The celebration of the new year was the first event he and Zelda would actually get to partake in together. The people of Hateno would gather for a modest party tomorrow evening and then have a feast together on the first day of the year. And this time, he would get to witness Zelda's sparkling eyes as they attended those events.
He had no intention of missing that.
Zelda herself had become notably more comfortable with him in the last few weeks. Though she still stammered and hesitated if he made her blush – something he didn't do on purpose but that seemed to be happening often lately – she had remained more confident in speaking openly since their first trip into the village together, at least where he was concerned.
Where she had once welcomed him home with a tremor in her voice, now she did so with a bright smile. Where she had once remained in her room unless he requested her presence, now she sought out his company rather regularly. And where she had once been entirely alone, now she was slowly beginning to trust him.
Link knew it would take more than the month and a half he'd known Zelda for her to overcome the struggles of her past. He still didn't understand very many of them. He had his guesses, certainly, but the amount of information Zelda had told him directly was very little. He had learned that she was trapped in the dungeons as a child, something that had left such a terrible impression upon her that he considered it a trauma. He also knew that Hilda had filled her mind with lies about him and poisoned her self-confidence, likely for many, many years. But that was it. He knew nothing about what specifically Hilda had done to her over the years. He wasn't even sure if the King had played a part in it or simply turned a blind eye to his daughter's suffering.
There were more mysteries too, something he had discussed with Mipha a few weeks back. Why had neither of them known that Zelda existed before Hilda's letter detailing the arranged marriage? She was a Princess – it didn't make sense that she was a complete unknown. It was even more jarring that nobody else in the Kingdom seemed to recognize her. One or two of the villagers in Hateno had noted she looked similar to Hilda, but they never put two and two together beyond that. It wasn't really their fault; they had no reason to know the Crown Princess had a twin sister.
So it was that Link arrived at Hyrule Castle filled with curiosity. It was only an hour or so past noon, the sun high in the sky, as he exited the carriage. They had made good time courtesy of their exceedingly early departure. Now, he could handle all of his responsibilities at the Castle without worrying about running out of time and be prepared to leave just as early the next morning.
The guards welcomed him into the Castle grounds with smiles; it was likely that they knew him by sight. Perhaps he had even mentored a few of them back when he'd trained the knights following the Calamity. Security around the Castle was as tight as ever, though, and Link was glad to see they were doing their jobs so well. It made him swell with pride as their old teacher…even though he'd probably never met most of them.
After being shown to his room and enjoying a lunch prepared by the Castle's chefs, Link set off for the throne room. The King had insisted he simply come to the Castle Sanctum of his own volition following his arrival, probably in an effort to make him feel more relaxed. He was well aware that Link didn't particularly enjoy being at the Castle. Everyone here recognized him at once. They bowed and honored him in a way that made him uncomfortable.
Link didn't consider himself special or better than anyone else – he was simply the person that had been needed at the time of the Calamity. Nothing more.
Arriving at the entrance to the Sanctum, the guards gazed at him in awe before announcing his presence. A powerful voice told them to open the doors and, moments later, the sparkling interior of the throne room came into view. The floors were so polished they reflected the ceiling almost like a mirror. The flags and banners of Hyrule were as grand and colorful as ever, bestowing a regal atmosphere over the room that nowhere else in the Kingdom could hope to match. And, of course, the King himself was waiting inside.
For as many times as Link had greeted King Rhoam as he sat upon his throne on the second level, he was quite surprised to see that the man stood in the center of the first floor this time. He wore an unusually jovial smile as he beckoned Link inside, urging the guards to close the doors behind him. The King was always pleasant with him, especially in recent years, but he was still a bit surprised by the enthusiasm he exuded.
Nearby, however, stood another – the Crown Princess herself, Hilda. Her purple hair was as long and well-maintained as ever, her red eyes narrowing as he approached. She was wearing a turquoise gown, one that Link recognized as matching the blue dress Zelda had first arrived at his home wearing. He found the sight a little jarring - it was as if he were looking at the inverse of his fiancée in almost every way.
"Link, how wonderful to see you again," King Rhoam intoned, his enthusiastic voice booming around the Sanctum. Link offered a deferential bow.
"It's a pleasure to see you again, Your Highness."
"Please, don't concern yourself with such formalities. It is my hope that we will soon be family, after all! I would much prefer you shake my hand than bow your head."
Link, though a little stunned, did as he was asked, approaching the King and taking his outstretched hand. It was sometimes a bit disconcerting how much larger than Link he was. The man towered over him with hands the size of his head. That stature afforded him a striking and intimidating presence when he presented himself as the unfaltering King of Hyrule. But right now, he seemed closer to the genial grandfather Link had once met when he was very young.
"If you insist, Your Highness."
"I do, indeed!" He released Link's hand before stepping back and gesturing to his right. "And of course, I asked Hilda to join us today. Though it has been some time since you last had the chance to chat with her, I assure you she is as thrilled to see you as I am."
Link felt a sudden swell of frustration rise within him but swallowed the feeling quickly. Now certainly wasn't the time to let his emotions get the better of him…even if he did resent everything about the woman standing across from him. She had put Zelda through hell, likely for many years.
But he wouldn't let her do it ever again.
"Hilda," he acknowledged, inclining his head. She scoffed.
"What, no moniker of respect for me? Only for Father?"
"Now, now, Hilda," the King interrupted, his voice rather stern, "you and Link have fought by each other's sides for a long time now. It's far more natural for him to address you familiarly, don't you think?" She sighed before rolling her eyes.
"If you insist, Father."
"Now," the man continued, turning his attention back to Link, "I must apologize for being less prepared to greet you than usual. You see, Hilda only informed me yesterday that you would be arriving this afternoon and with the Year's End Ball tomorrow night I have neglected to adequately ready things for you."
'She did…? Didn't he send me those letters?'
"Your hospitality has been as gracious as ever, Your Highness," Link offered, dismissing his confusion for now.
"Ah, you flatter me, Link."
"Father," Hilda interjected, "in the interest of respecting Link's time, perhaps we should move on to more important topics, don't you think? You did send my sister to him as part of an arranged marriage proposal."
"Indeed, Hilda – thank you, my dear. Now then, Link. I believe it was a month ago that my other daughter Zelda arrived at your residence in Hateno Village, correct?" Link nodded.
"A month and a half ago, yes."
"That much time has already passed, has it? Amazing how the months fly by in this new era of peace." Link was stricken by the fact that the King didn't know when his own daughter had left the Castle...but he, of course, kept that thought to himself.
"Indeed. The fact that winter is setting upon Hateno again is almost unbelievable," Link agreed. He caught a glimpse of Hilda, huffing impatiently.
"I trust you and your village have been well since last we met in person?" King Rhoam continued.
"We have, thank you for asking. Hateno continues to grow and the people there are settling into the environment quite well. Some of the younger men have asked me to teach them how to use weapons in case they ever need to defend themselves, many of the families have begun specializing in growing particular vegetables, and our resident chefs have started to make quite a name for themselves."
"You speak of them with such reverence; I can tell each and every one of them are a credit to this Kingdom."
"And what of Zelda?" Hilda insisted at last, her eyes insistent.
"Ah yes, what of Zelda?" King Rhoam concurred.
Link was a bit surprised at how much interest Hilda was showing in her sister. Persistent interest, at that. Surely, she wasn't just impatient to make sure Zelda was okay. No, that was unlikely. Far more probable was the fact that Hilda wanted to make sure she was miserable. The Crown Princess had put terrible thoughts in her sister's head about Link himself, convinced her that she would live as a servant to him, constantly dodging his ire and abuse. If Hilda's eager question was an indication of anything, it was that she wanted to know how unhappy her sister was. Perhaps she was even hoping he was disappointed that she had been sent as his fiancée.
Link tried not to smile too much as he began to tell them exactly what he had planned to from the start – the unfiltered truth.
"Zelda is an absolute delight to have by my side," he began, noting the muted look of surprise on the King's face and the one of abject shock on Hilda's. "Since her arrival, we've taken care to get to know each other properly. Her warmth and kindness are all but unparalleled. I'd go so far as to say my own life is much brighter now than it ever was without her."
He took in their faces again while they formulated a response. King Rhoam was clearly a bit in awe, his eyes having widened as he stroked his snow-white beard thoughtfully. Hilda, however, was all but gnashing her teeth together, glaring at the floor beneath her.
'You've never deserved any disappointment like you deserve this one, Hilda.'
King Rhoam cleared his throat and fixed Link with a smile.
"I must say, I am pleased to hear such high praise from you regarding Zelda. I had some misgivings of my own as to whether she would be a good match for you or not, but it appears my concerns were misplaced." Link nodded and offered a calm smile of his own.
"Indeed, you have nothing to worry about, Your Highness. I see no roadblocks on the path to Zelda and I becoming happily married in due time."
The King all but lit up at his words.
"What wonderful news! And to think you would come here personally to bring me such joyous tidings. I am quite glad Hilda came up with the brilliant suggestion to present Zelda as your fiancée. She was even right to recommend I send her to live alongside you as something of an opportunity for the two of you to get to know one another."
'So that's what happened - Hilda was the one who insisted Zelda be sent away. No doubt she was hoping Zelda would be absolutely miserable stuck out in Hateno by herself. But she's not by herself at all. In fact, she probably has more love and support now than she's ever had in her life.'
"Ah, I wasn't aware that Hilda had come up with that considerate idea herself," he said, turning his attention towards her She was slowly recovering from the shock of hearing him praise Zelda. He made sure to meet her eyes directly.
"Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to build a strong, trusting relationship together, Hilda. I promise to make your sister the happiest woman I possibly can."
Hilda was glowering at him now, the hate in her eyes so palpable he could almost feel it wrapping around his throat. It was all he could do not to give away how satisfied he was to frustrate her. Though he thought of Zelda as so much more than just a tool to be used for petty vengeance, even Link had to admit it felt good to knock down a peg the arrogant Crown Princess who had spent her life tormenting her sister and badmouthing him.
"Surely you can't be serious," Hilda asserted at last, her familiar, haughty aplomb returning in full force. "We're talking about the same person, right? Zelda? My sister? That gloomy, miserable creature? There's just no way you could find her presence that appealing. Are you-"
"Hush, Hilda," the King chided, waving his hand rather dismissively. If looks could kill a person, both he and King Rhoam would likely have perished under the young woman's harsh eyes. Her father continued, though, oblivious to her anger.
"You'll have to forgive her – I'm afraid my daughters haven't always seen eye to eye."
'That's certainly one way to put it.'
"Oh, it's nothing we need to dwell on," Link insisted. "Besides, I'm quite grateful to her."
"Splendid. Well, if you don't have any complaints or questions about the situation, then I suppose we can move on to other topics."
"I do have one question for you, actually" Link began. The King happily awaited his words, gesturing for him to continue. "Will the Royal Family be planning a date for our eventual wedding or will that be left to Zelda and I?"
"Given how swimmingly things are going between the two of you, I would be hesitant to interfere further. I shall leave the decision entirely to you. What's more, you will have the full support of the Royal Family in procuring any venue and arranging any ceremony you might wish to eventually choose. Why, the wedding could even be held right here at the Castle if you like. We can make it a grand affair!"
"What!?" Hilda griped loudly from nearby. She was indignant, clenching her jaw hard enough that Link was surprised she didn't crack a tooth. The King didn't pay her outburst any mine, however. He took it as his sign to respond.
"In that case, I will discuss your gracious offer with Zelda and see how she feels about things when it becomes more relevant. We're still quite early on in our relationship, you see, and I would never want to pressure her to move too quickly."
"But of course! Take all the time you desire. My offer will stand from this point forward."
"Thank you, Your Highness."
"You are most welcome! Now, tell me more. How is my old friend Arn faring these days? Is your family well?"
It appeared Link was in for a lengthy conversation.
A while later, Link emerged from the Sanctum, thoroughly exhausted. He already disliked long visits with anyone he wasn't particularly close with, but to force himself to be so deferential towards the King the entire time as well had left him drained in a way he hadn't felt in quite some time. Luckily, their chat had gone well.
He had been somewhat concerned that the King would try to interfere in his and Zelda's steadily evolving relationship, but it seemed his worries were misplaced. For as obvious as it was that King Rhoam cared more about Link marrying into the Royal Family than about the happiness of his own daughter, he seemed to be perfectly content with the situation as long as Link was satisfied. At least he wasn't inclined to interfere in Zelda's new life. That was good enough for now.
Even if the thought of the King neglecting his traumatized daughter sent Link into a haze of frustration stronger than anything he'd experienced in quite some time.
Arriving back in the main hall of the Castle, he proceeded back towards his room. It was time to change into his more relaxed clothing and enjoy some dinner before bathing and going to bed early. He would be up before sunrise again the next morning and didn't want to risk oversleeping.
On his way, however, he was interrupted as someone stepped out from behind a corner, fixing him with a harsh stare. It was Hilda. For as angry as she'd been in the Sanctum, he had been expecting her to seek him out after his meeting with her father – she had, unsurprisingly, abandoned the conversation an hour ago. Her red eyes were practically on fire.
She stepped a bit closer before speaking in a haughty tone.
"Well, I see you're finally done sucking up to Father."
"Oh, I was simply taking some extra time to assure His Majesty that his daughter is well taken care of in Hateno. I wouldn't want him to worry, after all."
"Is that so? And here I thought nobody could ever care about that miserable waste of space."
"That vulgar attitude of yours is as strong as ever, isn't it, Hilda?"
She glared daggers at him and opened her mouth to retort. Before she did, though, a few voices sounded down the hallway behind him. In an impressive display of awareness, the look of intense frustration on her face melted into an unsettling mask of calmness, though her eyes still betrayed her real emotions. After the group passed, bowing politely as they went, she spoke in a hushed voice.
"And that disconcerting secrecy you always act with is still perfectly intact – I can never figure out what you're thinking. Are you sure you really care for my sister, Link? Aren't you just using her to get under my skin? If I admit that it's working will you stop pretending and tell me the truth about her? I can't imagine a world in which she actually matters to you."
"Hilda, all I'd have to do to get under your skin is dismiss your whining the way I did after we felled the Calamity." Her eye twitched. "Not that it's any of your business, but Zelda is someone I care deeply for. And none of my thoughts or feelings about her have anything to do with you, I assure you. Aside from my curiosity as to why you would fill your own sister's head with such foul lies about me, that is."
She made a show of considering his words before answering him, her eyes wide with mock surprise.
"Oh? Lies? What lies? I don't seem to recall telling her anything more than my own observations about you." Link felt his frustration overcome him for just a moment, lowering his own voice to make sure they weren't overheard.
"You told her I'd hit her if she didn't act like my servant. I've known you long enough not to waste my breath asking if you have any shame, but that's a disgusting lie to tell, even about someone you dislike. Especially after everything she's been through." Hilda waved her hand.
"I never said I thought you would hit her. I just told her what I'd heard from the noblewomen who sought a union with you in the past, that's all. I just trusted that they hadn't led me astray."
"Sounds like you need to find better friends to trust then; the ones you have now lie more than you do." Her eyes hardened again and she met his gaze, a dark grin on her lips.
"Oh, Link. You're so defensive about all the marriage proposals you shot down after the Calamity. You can just tell the truth. You rejected all of them so harshly, after all; you may as well own up to it."
"I won't deny I rejected each and every one of them, not for a second. But which do you want to hear about specifically? Maybe the first, who insulted my family behind their backs and then again to their faces? The one I demanded leave our house and never return?"
"You can hardly blame a noblewoman for looking down on such…filthy commoners, can you?"
She had paused seemingly to choose the most offensive words she could refer to his family with. She wouldn't get under his skin that easily though, not after all the years he'd dealt with this exact side of her. The side the Kingdom at large never got to see.
"My family is far more decent than any of those ill-mannered noblewomen. I don't care if you accept it, but I take solace in knowing that."
"Tell me, Link," she continued, undeterred. Her voice was dripping with mocking curiosity. "Is it true that the Goddess's chosen hero, the wielder of the Master Sword, really slapped the daughter of Duke Nell across the face before stranding her alone in the wilderness in the dead of night? I've always wanted to know what led to that situation."
Link felt anger well up in his chest yet again but forced it down. She was trying to goad him into snapping at her. He wouldn't fall for it. Besides, Link remembered that night all too well and none of her words were anywhere close to accurate.
"You're referring to Ruli, aren't you?"
"Indeed. The poor thing was just beside herself when she told me those awful stories."
"I suspect she neglected to mention the way she treated the people of Hateno like dirt beneath her feet, didn't she?"
"Well, if the shoe fits, as they say…"
"I'm not proud of it, but I shouted at her for her insufferable attitude. She decided she wouldn't be subjecting herself to my company any longer after that and stormed out of my house into the darkness. I tried to go after her but she refused my help and ran away into the night. My friend later told me she stayed at the local inn overnight and returned home the next morning."
"Oh? You're implying she lied directly to my face when she told me what happened? What would compel her to do such a thing?"
"You tell me. You've lied to Zelda's face for years, haven't you?" Hilda's sing-songy goading immediately gave way to an angry glare, her voice darkening.
"I never told that worthless failure anything that wasn't entirely deserved."
"There's only one failure between the two of you and it's not her." Hilda's eyes narrowed.
"Excuse me?"
"I can't think of a bigger failure of a sister than you, Hilda. I could make a list of all the things I suspect you've done to Zelda but I'm sure that would only cover a shockingly small amount."
"Oh? Surely my own sister hasn't been badmouthing me to someone who may as well be a stranger, right?"
"Not even once," he assured her, watching as Hilda's eyes widened with the tiniest trace of surprise. "I've only known her for a short time, but I doubt Zelda would ever say a bad word about you of her own volition."
"She wouldn't have the courage to go against me, anyway."
"She's actually defended you, you know."
"Am I supposed to be grateful?"
"I've long since given up on ever seeing that emotion from you. But just so you know, I told Zelda you didn't deserve the kindness she gave you but she insisted you did, even after everything you've put her through. Most people would kill to have someone who cares about them that much. But not you." Hilda's lip drew up into a snarl.
"She never did me any kindnesses, you low-class, self-important farmhand." Link continued, his voice level.
"How long have you thought of your own sister this way, Hilda? I know you and I can't stand each other, but I'm being entirely sincere when I say it's really a sad thing that you see her like this."
He was being very honest with her. For just a moment, despite all her goading and insults, he actually pitied Hilda. She was…lost. All but irredeemable, absolutely. But lost, as well.
She would never listen, though; he was just wasting his breath. And she proved as much a moment later.
"I see her exactly as she is – a failure who never lived up to one single expectation set to her. Someone who's inability to rise to the occasion ruined many lives beyond her own."
"Namely yours, right?"
"I couldn't be happier with where my life is these days. But that was certainly what I felt when I was younger, if you must know."
"Is that why you trapped her in the dungeons when you were kids?"
Hilda stopped dead, her face going entirely blank for just a moment. Had he actually broken through to her? He had only said it to gauge whether or not that theory was correct. There was really nobody else that could have deliberately put Zelda through something so traumatic but the hateful woman before his very eyes. But he still didn't have proof.
Link thought he'd seen it all. Hilda had always approached him with insidious intent. She had abused and traumatized her own sister so badly that the poor girl had nightmares several times a week. She wove lies to ruin the lives of people she didn't like. She whined like a child when she didn't get her way. And she even poisoned the ear of her father until she infected his thoughts too.
But when Hilda actually started laughing a moment later, a very genuine and deeply amused laugh, Link had to stop his mouth from falling open in disbelief.
"Oh! Oh, no, no, you're joking! She's still hung up on that? You must be joking! Please tell me you are! It was one lousy night and she made it so easy!"
He had never felt quite so appalled by someone before that moment. Hilda was fighting to speak through the fit of laughter that was only getting stronger by the second. It was as if he'd told her the most hilarious joke she'd ever heard…
"She followed me like a lost puppy all the way to the dungeons! She actually thought I'd go in with her! What an idiot! How could I not have locked her in? The opportunity was just too perfect!"
Link had finally recovered from being stunned into silence, though. In place of that abject shock and horror, the bile of hate and anger rose up in his throat.
"You're laughing?" he demanded, his voice low.
"Can you blame me?" she managed through her mirth. Tears of delight had formed in the corners of her eyes that she reached up to brush away.
Images of Zelda terrified and shaking at the top of the stairs in Ira and Melo's shop came flooding back into his mind. The sight of her eyes filled with absolute terror. The feeling of her trembling in his arms as she had cried against him. Hilda had done that to her. She had traumatized her sister. And she was laughing about it.
Link took a step closer and fixed his fierce gaze upon her. There was no doubt in his mind that his eyes were filled with hate. He didn't care if she saw it anymore.
"You are the most vile, disgusting woman I've ever had the misfortunate of meeting, Hilda." His voice was brimming with rage.
"Oh, Link. You say that as if I really care what you think," she responded, finally coming back under control from her laughing fit.
"Thank you again for sending Zelda to Hateno with me. I'll keep her safe from you for the rest of her life, you horrid psychopath."
Link turned and began walking away from her, seething with anger. The sooner he was away from Hilda, the better things would be.
She didn't want to give up so easily, though.
"Are you really just going to walk away and leave me here?" she sang, falling into step beside him.
"What good will talking to you accomplish?" He didn't even bother looking at her.
"You've gotten a lot more direct with me since Zelda was sent to you. Are you angry at me for her sake? Whatever the case, it makes these little interactions a lot more fun, honestly."
"I don't care."
"Well at least we'll have more opportunities to do this tomorrow night, right?" Link huffed and rounded on her, meeting her eyes at last.
"What on earth are you talking about?"
"The Year's End Ball, of course! Certainly you aren't planning to skip it, are you? We're within twenty-four hours of the party as it is and it would be so disrespectful towards Father to leave without so much as making an appearance."
Link gazed at her in silence for a moment before responding, forcing his tone somewhere closer to neutral again.
"I understand now. So that's why you forged His Majesty's name on that letter inviting me to the Castle at the beginning of the month." Hilda's smile never faltered.
"You don't seem surprised."
"When the King himself opened with the fact that he hadn't known about my visit until yesterday, it was pretty obvious."
"I'll admit, I did forget to prep him in advance the way I should have."
"I was wondering what your goal could possibly be in bringing me here but now I see it. You were hoping to trap me into attending the Year's End Ball so Zelda would be all alone to greet the new year, weren't you? That's why you sent the second letter insisting that only I could come today." Hilda looked at him through eyes filled with confidence and delight.
"Oh, come now – 'trap' is such a harsh word, wouldn't you say? I like to think of it as giving you an opportunity to socialize with people far above your station. It's a gift, truly. The fact that Zelda will be all alone to start the new year is nothing new to her anyway." Link glowered at her.
"That she survived having you as her sister for twenty-two years is incredible. I could never have handled living in such hell so gracefully. I can hardly suffer your presence right now."
"Be that as it may, even you have some modicum of decorum, right? You wouldn't disrespect the King himself by abandoning his party, would you?"
"Your overconfidence was always your biggest weakness, Hilda."
"Excuse me?" She was immediately defensive.
"It's the reason the Champions always criticized you and the reason you were next to worthless in a real battle without me to defend you. You always think you've won before you've even seen the full picture." Hilda's eyes were angry again, boring into his own.
"Explain it to me then, O master tactician."
"Even if I couldn't make it back to Hateno in time to celebrate the coming of the new year, Zelda won't be alone. Mipha is by her side as we speak. You see, the two have become good friends recently. And all of the villagers love her. She would never be alone. Ira or Lissa or any of the others would see to that."
"So the most pathetic Champion and a bunch of hicks would be at her side. Who cares? What's your point?"
"My point is you can't break her heart anymore, Hilda. She has people around her that care about her now, people that would go above and beyond to make her happy. But even that's not the most important part."
"Oh? And what is?"
"You won't be keeping me from Zelda either. Tomorrow morning, before sunrise, I'll be boarding that carriage home and I'll have returned to Hateno long before the end of year festivities begin." Her eyes narrowed even further.
"What brazen disrespect towards my father."
"I'm sure His Majesty would support my return to Hateno fully if it were to come up. Perhaps we can even go speak with him together. After how excited he was to hear that Zelda and I are doing so well, I'm sure he'd only want to facilitate that further, don't you think? Especially if the end goal is to tie me to the Royal Family so I don't leave Hyrule."
Hilda's eyes widened in very real surprise this time. The anger in her gaze evaporated for just a moment as his words sunk in.
"How…did you know that? Did Zelda tell you?"
"She's said nothing about it, but it's not that hard to put together. After I moved to Hateno, His Majesty went above and beyond to ensure I was happy. He only requested my presence at the Champion's Ball each summer to remind the people they have heroes they can rely on. But he never pressures me for more in case I get so fed up with the fame I never wanted that I leave to someplace nobody knows me.
"He even allocated some extra funding to Hateno Village to help us build new establishments which he certainly didn't have to do. All of that was to ensure I was comfortable and content in this Kingdom, to make sure I wouldn't abandon it. This sudden proposal of marriage to Zelda I'm sure served the same purpose – to keep me from leaving Hyrule and taking the Master Sword with me."
"The full picture, then," Hilda muttered, scowling again.
"See? It's important to observe and understand the whole situation. Otherwise, deceitful people might take advantage your lack of knowledge to hurt someone who doesn't deserve it."
"I despise you," she snarled. Link just gave her the most relaxed smile he could manage.
"Likewise, Hilda-sama."
She spun on her heel and began to storm away, her fists clenched so tightly her knuckles were white. He watched her stomp down the deserted hallway until she rounded the corner and disappeared from his sight.
Link sighed heavily before pinching the bridge of his nose.
'I probably shouldn't have antagonized her that much…that was pretty childish of me. But it's not like she can do anything to Zelda and I as long as the King is in support of us. She knows that too, otherwise she wouldn't have given up and stormed off. But I meant what I said – I'll keep Zelda safe from Hilda for the rest of her life.'
Turning back in the direction that would eventually lead him to his guest room, Link set off again, replaying certain parts of his conversation with Hilda once again. He couldn't get her upsetting laughter out of his head.
'What a revolting person.'
Link shook the memory from his mind as best he could and proceeded towards his room for the evening.
"Um, Mipha?" Zelda murmured.
"Yes?"
"Can I…show you the hair tie I made for Link?" Mipha lit up in excitement.
"Yes, please! I would love to see it!"
Zelda and Mipha were sitting on the couch relaxing together. She was a bit surprised by how easily Mipha had agreed to spend an entire day with her. They had become closer friends over her last several visits to the Hateno, but somewhere in her heart, Zelda was still convinced that she would never be good enough to share the Zora Princess's company in earnest. Mipha, however, didn't seem to share that sentiment at all.
After Link had departed, the two had spent the morning chatting and catching up. Mipha had explained how the Zora celebrated the new year and asked what she and Link were planning to do. She didn't know much beyond the fact that Hateno usually had a modest party to observe the occasion. She suspected they would attend that event. And while usually the idea of parties and social gatherings filled her with dread, this time she found herself quite excited at the prospect.
After enjoying lunch, the girls went into town and visited with the villagers. The people of Hateno had always been fond of Mipha but Zelda noticed that they were addressing her with the same level of kindness and excitement. It was a deeply unfamiliar feeling but one that she wouldn't have traded for anything else in the world. To feel accepted here was like nothing she had ever imagined.
Now, as night fell over the village, Zelda and Mipha sat together, chatting about various topics following dinner. The subject of Zelda's surprise had come up rather quickly. The fabric Lissa had ordered for her had come in a few weeks ago and Zelda had picked it up while Link was out hunting one day. She had spent upwards of a week deciding which cut of fabric was her favorite and what the proper length was to accommodate his hair without getting in the way.
Even after she had finished it though, she hadn't been able to bring herself to give it to him. She was just too scared. But Mipha was quite eager for her to give her present to Link and so Zelda produced the hair tie she had prepared.
"Oh Zelda, this is so beautiful," Mipha assured her.
"R-really?"
"Yes, very much so. He'll love this."
It was a single strip of bright blue fabric, one that matched his earrings as closely as she could manage. The material was perfect for this particular project – it was sleek enough that it wouldn't pull one's hair but sturdy enough that, once tied in place, it wouldn't budge unless you forced it to – she had tested it on her own hair several times to make sure.
The only downside she could think of was the fact that Link would struggle to fasten it himself.
"I like the fact that you'll have to tie it for him too," Mipha sang with a smile. "It's such a sweet gesture and it means you'll be able to help him get ready every day!" Zelda felt her cheeks heat up at once.
"I, um, i-it wasn't on purpose. I just wouldn't have been able to…make one like he wears right now by hand. You'd need much more skill than I have to create something like that."
"It would be difficult for anyone but a trained artisan to match his current one, that's true," Mipha conceded. "But whether your decision was deliberate or not, it was an excellent choice. He'll blush so terribly the first time you do it for him. Oh, but don't tell him I told you that."
Mipha laughed lightly and Zelda followed suit. She had seen Link's face flush several times since their first outing together. It had even happened during that outing. She wasn't entirely sure why, but she was starting to suspect it was her fault. But...no, that was ridiculous. Surely, he wasn't blushing because of her…right?
"M-Mipha…?"
"Yes, Zelda?"
"H-has Link said anything to you about…m-me?"
"About you? Sure, he talks about you a lot; you are his fiancée now."
"I, um, I meant…from a more…emotional…perspective…" Mipha smiled at her.
"You wonder if he feels romantically towards you, right?" Zelda's cheeks caught fire and she averted her gaze.
"Um…um…I…"
"I think he does."
"W-what?" she managed, burying her face in her hands. Mipha reached out and squeezed her shoulder.
"You shouldn't be so surprised – he's been very taken with you for a while now. You've realized the same, I'm sure."
"B-but…for someone as wonderful as Link…to feel…that way about…someone like me…"
"Someone like you? What do you mean? You're an amazing person, Zelda."
She brought her eyes up timidly and saw Mipha's shining back into hers.
"I mean it. I love having you with me like this – you are wonderful company and an even better friend!"
"T-thank you…Mipha."
"But Link feels even more strongly. I've never seen this side of him, to be honest."
"…really?"
"We grew up together and I've never seen him quite like this. He cares about his family, of course. He cares about me. He cares about the people of this village. But there's something deeper to the way he cares about you, Zelda. There's something…extra in his eyes when he looks at you. You can trust it."
"I…think I do. I'm actaully coming to…trust Link more and more recently."
"That's a huge step! I'm so proud of you!"
"T…thank…you."
Just then, a knock at the door interrupted their conversation. It was dark already but given how early the sun set during the winter months, it wasn't yet unreasonable for someone to come by. But who could it be?
"Let me get it," Mipha offered, rising to her feet and approaching the entryway.
Zelda watched as she opened the front door, curious to see who might be calling on them. As it turned out, it was Melo, carrying a box full of what looked to be vegetables. He smiled and nodded to both of them.
"Hello, Melo-san," Mipha greeted him with a smile. He grinned at her.
"I've told you before, you don't have to be all polite with me, Mipha. And it's good to see you. You as well, Zelda!" he called with a smile. She stood and approached the door herself.
"I-it's a pleasure to see you again, Melo. What…brings you by this evening?" He jostled the box in his hands.
"Just came to drop off some fresh produce as a thank you gift for Link. He really does a lot for us, you know? And since the harvest slows down during the winter months, I thought I'd do something special before we start running out of our best stuff and bring him a box of real high-quality ingredients."
"That's very kind of you, Melo-san. Here, let me take that box for you," Mipha offered, extending her own hands.
"Thanks. Careful though, it's a bit heavy."
"No need to worry – I may not look like it but I'm an accomplished warrior in my own right!" she assured him with a smile. Melo handed her the box before grinning.
"I remember hearing about the day you sparred with Glenne and the others during training. They said you wiped the floor with them."
"I do seem to recall that happening once," Mipha admitted, a demure giggle accenting her amusement.
"I'm a little surprised you're still here, though. You usually go back home by sundown, don't you?" he asked, his brow furrowed in confusion.
"Typically, yes. But I'll be staying with Zelda tonight; we're having a sleepover!" Melo scratched his head before his eyes opened widely a moment later.
"Oh, that's right! Link mentioned something about an errand that was going to take him out of town overnight at the end of the month. Guess that's tonight, huh?"
"I-indeed," Zelda managed at last. "He should…be back by tomorrow afternoon, though."
"Wow, he's going to make that long trip between here and the Castle on back-to-back days?"
"He…insisted. He didn't want to miss…the celebrations here in Hateno."
"That sounds a lot like our Link," Melo conceded with a smile. "What about you, Mipha? You staying for the festivities tomorrow night?"
"No, I'm afraid not. We Zora have our own customs and I'll be celebrating the coming of the new year with my father and brother, as well as the rest of the Domain. Unfortunately, that also means I'll be leaving tomorrow morning so I can help them prepare."
"Ah, that makes sense. Well, if you can come out on the first day of the new year, we always whip up a big feast, Ira and me. You're welcome to stop by!"
"Thank you, Melo-san. I may just take you up on that offer. Your kindness is very much appreciated." Zelda thought she saw Melo blush in the dim light…but she wasn't quite sure.
"Thanks, Mipha! Anyway, I've stood here on your doorstep chatting long enough. You two have a great night! I'll see you tomorrow for the celebrations, Zelda!"
"I-I look forward to them," she assured him. And with that, the young man turned and strolled away.
Zelda closed the door behind him as Mipha took the vegetables towards the kitchen area, setting the box on the counter next to the cooking pot.
"Wow, there are some lovely items in here," the Zora Princess noted. Zelda joined her and marveled at the quality of the ingredients too.
"You're right," she murmured. She briefly wondered if she might be able to prepare something special for Link with them…
"Don't think I got so distracted I forgot," Mipha said suddenly, turning towards Zelda with a bright smile.
"For…got?"
"We were talking about your love life with Link!" Zelda blushed fiercely again.
"W-we…can move on now. I…m-mostly got my answers…"
"We can't just stop! Isn't it a staple of sleepovers to discuss romantic interests anyway? Besides, I haven't even asked you how you feel about things yet. Now, come – let's enjoy our conversation until bedtime!"
Somewhat reluctantly, Zelda let herself be led back to the couch. There was no getting out of this one. But somehow…that didn't seem so bad tonight.
The moon was shining brightly through the windows of the Castle as Link made his way back towards his guest room. He had enjoyed a decadent meal earlier, courtesy of the chefs again. Though they were quite talented, he found himself missing the gentle warmth of Zelda's meals…it always filled him with joy when she cooked for him. She could certainly give those chefs a run for their money, as well.
The biggest downside of partaking in dinner at the Castle, though, was sharing that meal with several other guests, all of whom just had to greet him with a bow and expression of gratitude. But finally, he had finished eating and left to prepare for his bath. Now, it was time to turn in for the day. Sleep was calling his name rather insistently after a warm soak and he was looking forward to a good night's rest.
The sooner he got to bed, the sooner he could head home, too.
On the way though, he noticed a familiar face approaching him from the opposite direction. That face belonged to a tall woman, very tall, in fact. Her full red hair was eye catching and stood out against her tan skin and the golden accents of her armor. The blue sash of a Champion was fastened around her waist, serving as a skirt.
"Urbosa, it's good to see you again. What brings you here?" Link asked with a smile. She returned the gesture and stopped next to him.
"The same reason as you, I'd imagine – a nice, hot bath before bed." Link laughed.
"Guilty as charged. It's quite refreshing, I must admit. I take it you're here for the Year's End Ball tomorrow?" She nodded.
"Indeed, I am. You'll be returning to Hateno though?"
"I will be, yes. I never agreed to come to the party and…well, we have our own celebrations there and I wouldn't want Zelda to experience them alone her first time being present for them."
Urbosa fixed him with a warm smile. It was far gentler than he'd ever seen from her.
"Ohisama – ah, that's the nickname I use for Zelda," she explained, noticing Link's confused expression. "Ohisama sent me a letter several weeks ago. She told me that she's becoming quite happy with you in Hateno." Link felt his cheeks darken just a bit, hoping Urbosa wouldn't notice in the muted light of the hallway.
"I'm very glad to hear that. I'm not perfect by any means, but I do want her to be happy while she's with me."
"That she can even say she is with such confidence is an enormous step forward for her."
'Urbosa clearly knows more than I do. I can't ask her about Zelda's past in the middle of the Castle, though. That wouldn't be very smart.'
"You have my word that I'll keep giving her reasons to be happy," Link assured the woman. He knew Urbosa was important to Zelda and wanted to set her mind at ease as much as he could.
"You're a good man, Link. There is no doubt in my mind that she'll be safe with you." The undertones of her word choice were crystal clear to him.
"She will be."
"She had mentioned checking with you to see if I might be able to visit in the new year."
"Yeah, she told me a few weeks ago you wanted to. We'd always be happy to see you in Hateno, Urbosa. You're as welcome there as you are in your own hometown." Urbosa smiled again.
"What a kind invitation. I appreciate that."
"Of course. You don't have to wait for a real invitation either – just drop by whenever you have the chance. I know Zelda would really love to see you again."
"I'll do that, then. Thank you, Link."
He expected she would pass him and continue on her way, but Urbosa instead stepped a bit closer. She very subtly pushed an envelope into his hand, leaning in and lowering her voice to a whisper.
"Don't let anyone else in this Castle see that. That's for your eyes alone, Link."
"Got it," he agreed at once, his own voice low. Stuffing the envelope into his pocket, he watched as she took a deliberate step past him.
"It was wonderful to see you again, Link. Take care on your trip home tomorrow."
"You as well, Urbosa. Enjoy the party."
And with that, the Gerudo Chieftain disappeared around the corner, almost as if she had never been there. Link had something that proved she had been, however. What had she needed to give him that required her to swear him to secrecy?
Deciding he would never find out in the hallway, Link returned to his room, curious what the contents of that envelope were. Once he was behind closed doors, he lit a lantern and set it upon the desk that rested near his temporary bed. His previous lethargy had all but vanished in the face of Urbosa's mysterious letter. His curiosity was overwhelming him.
Finally, he sat down at the desk and opened the envelope, pulling out a few pages that had been carefully folded together. The words scrawled on them were neatly written; he recognized that handwriting as being the same from the letter Zelda had received weeks ago. She had written this herself then? For what reason?
Unwilling to theorize any longer, Link spread out the pages and began to read.
Link,
I apologize for writing this to you instead of explaining in person, but I cannot afford to be overheard while inside these walls. I fear it would cause an enormous amount of trouble for Zelda should that come to pass. She has expressed to me that she feels happy with you. She has told me that she is coming to trust you. I have no doubt you understand the importance of these sentiments, especially coming from her.
I have been with Zelda and Hilda most of their lives. After their mother passed away when they were six, I tried to fill in as a caretaker of sorts. I had no desire to replace their real mother, of course, but she and I were very close and I promised her I would always take care of her daughters if anything were to happen to her. Alas, that tragedy came to pass nearly sixteen years ago.
I tell you this to say – I am well aware of what has been done to Zelda over the years. You are observant and intelligent in a way few others I have ever met can claim to be, so I have no doubt you know that Zelda's past hides much anguish and misery. I had no idea you would be at the Castle today, but I happened to see you with Hilda earlier and decided to write this letter to you in order to explain some of the pain our poor Zelda has had to suffer all alone. I hope that I may be able to give you more context with which to understand and help her.
Link was reeling a bit. Urbosa had written him this letter because she didn't want anyone, probably Hilda specifically, to overhear as she explained the truth. He hesitated, though. Part of him wondered if it was fair to Zelda to be told about her past without her permission or involvement. It was quite likely that Urbosa could only give him a general idea but even still…
Ultimately, though, Link decided to read the letter. He had always known Hilda was cruel and thoughtless, but the way she had laughed at the trauma she caused Zelda was genuinely upsetting. He had promised to keep Zelda safe from her; he had to know just how unhinged she really was when it came to her sister.
The first thing you should know is that Zelda possesses no magical talents. Hilda was the only one to awaken to the Sealing magic that Hyrule needed to rely on to defeat Ganon. Zelda tried for many years more to emulate Hilda and discover her own powers, but to no avail. Hilda ultimately trained with her magic and lived up to the expectations set for her – of this, we are both well aware.
Around the age of nine, however, King Rhoam told Zelda to stop wasting her time trying to awaken her powers. It was then that Hilda grew openly hostile towards her sister, likely feeling abandoned and angry. The most egregious example of this hostility was the night Hilda locked Zelda in the dungeons alone, leaving her emotionally devastated and perhaps even traumatized. I felt like I might die the day I learned that story – my heart was so deeply pained for her and I could do so frustratingly little.
I was not able to protect Zelda often. Hilda ran her out of their shared bedroom and she was forced to stay in the guest rooms for a time. Eventually, she was chased from room to room each night that came. At some point, though I am not sure when, Zelda was forced to stay in the servants' wing. And after that, Hilda used it as an excuse to treat her like her slave.
She demanded Zelda answer her every whim, respond to her every beck and call. She would force Zelda to cook meals for her in the dead of night and then decide she was no longer hungry. She would demand Zelda wake up before her and have her clothing for the day prepared before she herself awakened. Often, she would demand breakfast be brought to her directly among other selfish demands. Zelda was all but removed from the role of Princess and cast into being Hilda's personal servant. And that is only a snapshot of the situation.
Hilda grew more cruel over the years, verbally abusing and berating Zelda day in and day out. I tried to intervene where I could, but my influence was extremely limited, something I have grown to deeply regret in the last many years. I was forced to stand by and all but watch as the bright, beautiful little girl I loved grew into a broken, dejected young woman who thought herself worthless. I would assure her this was not the case as often as I could, but the damage was already done.
After the Calamity was averted, Hilda's cruelty transformed from something she did to vent her frustration and anger into something she seemed to delight in. Though I cannot say with certainty, I suspect without the pressure of saving Hyrule on her shoulders, Hilda began to find pleasure in the activity without anything else to weigh her down. Her influence was stronger than ever by then and I was all but barred from the Castle, excluding special events and direct summons from the King.
On the subject of the King, her father has never once cared enough to intervene. Though I do not believe he wishes cruelty on Zelda, he simply does not concern himself with what happens to her. Perhaps that is an even worse truth. He, too, believes the lie that Hilda has convinced Zelda herself of – that she is worthless. Her father actively turns a blind eye to her suffering and excuses any comment Hilda makes or action she takes with regards to Zelda. Hilda is his golden child – the savior of his Kingdom and his people. She can do no wrong in so far as he is concerned. And so, Hilda continued to get worse, entirely unchecked.
For the last five years, I have slowly watched as my poor Zelda was reduced to a state of anguish and self-loathing I never imagined. Though my heart was broken for her since she was nine, it shattered into thousands of tiny pieces to see her in such a state. She could barely bring herself to speak anymore. She believed herself ugly, insignificant, a failure. And still, I could do so little.
But then I learned that she had been sent to you in Hateno with a promise from the King that she was to be your fiancée. I was worried at first. I know you are a good man but I was not sure if Zelda would even be capable of responding to anyone in a meaningful way. And yet, here we are. She has told me many wonderful things about you and the way you treat her. You, Link, will have my deepest gratitude and most sincere thanks for the rest of my life.
You brought her out of the darkness and back into the light she deserves. You have shown her love and kindness that she has been so desperately lacking for more than a decade. I beg you, Link – please continue to be there for her. Please continue to show her happiness. You have accomplished what I was never capable of doing on my own. And I will support you with everything I have in any way I am able. Zelda is truly lucky to have you as her fiancé. I can think of nobody more perfect for her than you.
Please do not make mention of this letter within the walls of the Castle. I fear if anyone overheard our discussion, word might return to Hilda and she would do her best to ruin Zelda's life again. As it stands, you appear to have the situation under control. I have no doubt that Hilda's influence will always be overshadowed by your own, but I do not wish to risk causing more difficulty for Zelda through my own actions.
If you would like to respond to this letter, you are more than welcome to do so. I am staying in the room closest to the stairs on the second floor of the guest wing – if you are so inclined to deliver a response, knock on my door until I awaken in the morning. I do not care how early it is if it means receiving your reply. I ask that you only leave a response my hands directly, however. I know you understand why I am so cautious here.
Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy letter. I know Zelda is in wonderful hands with you, Link. I will answer any questions you may have, no matter how limited my knowledge, though I suspect it is only a matter of time before she opens up to you all on her own. I have never heard her say that she is growing to trust someone before she spoke of you. I know that trust will only grow from here.
Please be safe on your journey home tomorrow and enjoy celebrating the coming of the new year with Zelda. It is a time of year she used to love so much as a child. I hope that same wonder can be inspired in her heart once again with you at her side.
Once more and from the depths of my heart and soul, thank you for everything you have done for her, Link.
Urbosa.
Link sat back and stared at the letter. He wasn't shocked to learn that Hilda was the cause of Zelda's suffering – he had long suspected as much. But it gutted him to read of the things Hilda had put her through. As he expected, Urbosa only knew general instances of the torment she had endured, not specific details. But still, this was more than enough to pain a vivid picture in his mind.
Hilda had taken pleasure in her sister's suffering. It had started as frustration that Zelda hadn't been able to support her in the fight against the Calamity but had quickly evolved into something far more sinister. It was perfectly in line with who she really was, though.
Link had never liked Hilda from the day he'd met her. She had been abrasive and selfish from word one and he had never warmed up to her over the years. Luckily, the likes of Revali and Daruk were able to rein her in during their training. Link had noticed, however, that Urbosa never said much to contradict the Crown Princess. He now understood why. She was being cautious so she could protect Zelda, even in some small way.
He now also understood why he, Mipha, and the general populous of Hyrule didn't know of Zelda's existence. Hilda had pulled her into the shadows, forced her to live a life of subservience and servitude. She had been denied her birthright and cruelly cast aside by both her sister and her father. But, while deeply galling, King Rhoam's role was nowhere near as enraging to him as Hilda's was.
Hilda was a nefarious force of misery in Zelda's life. Yes, she had saved the Kingdom from Ganon and sealed him away with her magic, but that in no way gave her the right to ruin someone's life. Especially not Zelda's. She was far too wonderful a person to have had to endure such a nightmare.
'I will protect her, Urbosa. Don't you worry. Nobody will ever hurt her again.'
Link rifled through the desk until he found some parchment and a quill of his own, settling in to write a response to the Gerudo Chieftain. He was more than happy to reassure her that Zelda wasn't going anywhere and that he would be there to protect her from now on.
He could catch up on his sleep during the journey home tomorrow.
Zelda relished the warmth of her new white coat. She hadn't worn the outfit yet and wanted to surprise Link with it when he returned home later that same day. The morning was particularly frigid too and it helped keep her warm, especially the incomparably soft fleece collar.
Zelda and Mipha had stayed up a little later than usual chatting about all sorts of things. By the time they had fallen asleep, they had thoroughly discussed her eventual marriage to Link as well as when the perfect opportunity to present him with his hair tie was. Zelda had settled on giving it to him before they ventured out for the end of year festivities that evening. She was extremely nervous to do so but excited as well. Mipha had sworn up and down that he would love it and she was starting to believe her words much more readily than when they'd first met.
Morning came quickly and Mipha had given Zelda an enormous hug before wishing her a wonderful afternoon and departing for Zora's Domain once more. She was extremely grateful that Mipha had stayed with her overnight. She wasn't particularly scared of being alone, but she had come to trust in the comforting presence of Link, even if he wasn't in the same room. Just having him nearby made her feel relaxed in a way she never had at the Castle. Mipha's presence did the same…though not quite to the same level.
Now, she had the remainder of the late morning and early afternoon to herself. Link had said he would return to Hateno an hour or so past noon. Her hair tie was long since finished, currently resting safely in her pocket - all she had to do was present it to him. She had opted to prepare a later lunch than usual to greet him with as well. Everything she wanted to take care of prior to his return had already been handled.
But that meant she had little to do with herself at the moment. Perhaps she could go visit the other villagers and see if they needed help preparing for the evening's activities.
'If I do that, though…I'll probably change first. I'd like Link to be the first person to see this outfit…'
A sudden knock sounded at the door. Zelda chewed her lip anxiously. She had just decided that Link would be the first person to see her new clothes and now somebody was at the door…how could she negotiate this?
The knocking sounded again, this time more urgent. What if somebody was in trouble or injured? It was unlikely but she couldn't take the risk of abandoning someone in need over a simple outfit. Ultimately, it didn't matter in the end. Link would be happy to see it no matter the circumstance, even if she'd worn it already. Of this, she was truly convinced.
Heading to the entrance, Zelda eased the door open, nervous curiosity propelling her forward. A man was standing before her, wrapped in a ragged brown blanket, shivering badly.
"O-oh my, are you…okay?" she asked hurriedly, pushing the door open wide.
The man looked up at her. She didn't recognize his face.
He seemed to recognize her, though.
"P…Princess…Zelda-sama…"
'…Princess?'
"Um, I…have we…met somewhere before?" she murmured at last.
"No," he admitted, drawing the blanket a little tighter around himself. Zelda was starting to feel a little wary of this man. Why did he know she was a Princess? Nobody knew that…
"Um…c-can I…help you somehow?"
"You already have," he admitted. Was it just her or was he shivering far less all of a sudden?
"I…have…?"
"I needed to make sure it was really you."
A moment later, a puff of white smoke accented by what appeared to be several red talismans engulfed the porch. When her vision cleared, a giant of a man stood between her and the one clutching the blanket. He wore a red and black body suit, large twin blade resting at his hips. Atop his head were two black arches fastened together at their bases, reminiscent of a long-forgotten hairstyle. He towered over her and looked down towards her with a face covered by a white mask, accented by two golden horns on either side.
But that mask sported a mark she had long since learned to be wary of, a mark that nearly caused her voice to fail.
"Y…Yiga…" she managed, her body beginning to tremble.
"A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Zelda-dono. Would you be so kind as to make things easy for the both of us and come with me willingly?"
His voice was deep and resonant. It filled her with dread. She stumbled backwards and drew into herself, clutching Link's hair tie through her pocket.
"I…I…"
"Do not misunderstand – that wasn't a request you can refuse."
Before she could even take in his words, the enormous man stepped across the threshold and reached out towards her. There was nowhere to run. Nowhere to hide. Nothing she could do at all except quake in terror…
'Link…please help me…'
8/28/2023
Post-Chapter Note: I hope you enjoyed the latest chapter! We are well and truly in the throes of Book I's climax now - I've had this arc planned for a little while and I'm very excited to take you on this journey with me at last!
I had a ton of fun writing the interactions between Link and Hilda. It's the first time we've ever seen them together and the first time Hilda has appeared in the present since Chapter 1 so I wanted it to be impactful. And their bitter, spiteful back and forth was so very different from the usual character interactions I write. Most of you probably know I write very soft, gentle interactions, perhaps with some drama. But boy was it a blast to write two characters that just really hate each other.
Urbosa's letter was a bit of a late addition - I originally thought she might just speak to Link in the courtyard but after establishing that she was cautious to write certain things when sending letters to Zelda, it wouldn't have made any sense for her to be less careful in person. I also wanted to finally bring Link a bit more into the loop of what really happened to Zelda. Of course, he doesn't know tons of specifics still and only Zelda will be able to provide those for him, but it also helps establish Urbosa as someone very concerned about Zelda who does all she can even when she's unable to change much.
As a quick acknowledgement, Urbosa almost always refers to Zelda by her nickname, but I figured in a letter directly to Link she would take care to simply name her as Zelda so he wouldn't be confused since he doesn't know that yet. That's why she wrote Zelda's given name over and over instead of her nickname, just in case anyone noticed and thought it strange or that maybe I'd just messed it up.
I'll briefly add that the interactions between Zelda and Link at the beginning as well as Zelda and Mipha (and Melo) later were also a lot of fun to delve into! It's very nice to portray Zelda as finally coming out of her shell a bit more and starting to trust the people around her. Plus Mipha being that loud cheerleaders for their relationship again is always a delight to write.
But, of course, not everything is right with the world anymore. I tried to foreshadow what would happen just a little bit, but not enough that I may as well have been screaming it at you from the sidelines - Zelda mentioning she'll be waiting for Link exactly as he left her, Link commenting that he certainly hopes she's there when he returns, little things like that. Though ultimately this was meant to be a bit of a shock and surprise, so I hope it served its purpose. I didn't name the character that appeared to take Zelda at the very end, but does anyone know who he is by the description alone? It's not that big a secret but I'm just curious if I described him well enough really lol (I kinda struggled putting his appearance into words).
Anyway, that's gonna be it out of me for this one. Thank you so much for reading and I hope you're as excited for the next chapter as I am to write it! Take care everyone and I'll see you again in the next one!