Authors notes: I'm sorry for the delay everyone. Me and my girlfriend of several years broke up and I was in an emotional rut. I'm slowly getting out of it now, and not to mention, with the release of tears of the kingdom, I've been occupied with that. (boy do I have thoughts on that game. Story was a mess for me but the gameplay I loved and of course the characters. And yes, the zelink, i can always use more zelink in my life.) My apologies. However, this one was a joy to write and I hope you enjoy it. Please, if you could be so kind, leave your thoughts. It helps my story grow.
Chapter
Why we failed one-hundred years ago
Part 4
High Noon of the first day
The carriage was loaded with an assortment of goods hauled down from Zelda's quarters - a task that had consumed the better part of ten minutes for Link. Not that he minded, his whole life had been devoted to busying himself with duties, so what did an extra ten minutes matter. Besides, today would not be like any other and if he could do anything to distract from the nervous rumbling in his belly, all the better. They were now ready to embark.
"I only need but a moment before we depart. It won't take long, I promise," Zelda said, her fingers pinching the air for him to 'wait'. She quickly strolled over to another who was rushing down a flight of the castle's stone steps leading into the bustling courtyard. Along came Adeline, Zelda's good friend and handmaiden.
"Here you are, Princess, as per your request. I hope it's to your liking." the lady greeted, handing Zelda a folded-up gift, wrapped in delicate, velvet tissue paper. The girl's smile radiated enthusiasm, giddy for the princess's excursion.
"Thanks! It's perfect!" Zelda hopped.
While Link was busily securing the last of their supplies in the back of the carriage, he couldn't help but catch fleeting glimpses at the excitable princess from the corner of his eye. Her infectious enthusiasm had left him mildly perplexed. The task of maneuvering the sizable crates from one wagon to the next, earlier that morning under the command of a handful of soldiers, had been a physically demanding endeavor. However, her vivacious spirit seemed to counterbalance the day's strenuous activities, leaving a mystifying air of exhilaration in its wake.
Also, The subsequent discussion between Zelda and Adeline, took place out of earshot, but their soft giggles and giddy smiles perked his ears as he worked, and when he looked over, he saw them both stealing glances at him only to look away conspiratorially when he did. Their chirps struck a nerve of nervousness within him it but also piqued his curiosity. With the loading done he cleared his throat and decided to voice his queries, stepping up beside them, ready to depart.
"Pardon my interruption, your highness but I've been wondering about the cargo we loaded onto the festival wagons," Link asked, drawing Zelda's attention back to him. "That massive one covered with a tarp... What is it? It's huge."
Zelda's eyes brightened as she realized she'd left Link unattended to for quite some time and that the loading had been long done. An unexpected blush dusted her cheeks as she felt embarrassed for having him wait. Not to mention, the excitement for her tour of town was a rare treat indeed. Not every day was she afforded an opportunity to go on such an exciting venture. At least, not without having to be surrounded by a small army, unable visit her denizens freely, that is. Today was different though. Today she had a plan. Today she would be escorted by a soldier who was around her age and not some old grumpy goat who had the personality of a wet mop.
"Actually, I was going to ask you the same question," she admitted, regaining her composure. "I'm unsure about it myself. My uncle had this one delivered special. It's a gift, he says. For my birthday and for the coming celebration. Though truth be told, they are being quite secretive about it."
Realizing that Link had no idea who she was referring to, her face lit up and she explained. "Purah and my uncle, that is."
Link still had no idea who she was referring too so she had to clarify further. "Purah is a lady of my court and one of my closest friends. And my uncle, well, I'm sure you've heard tales of him before, Prince Arcturus?"
Link gently nodded where he stood, the recollection of her esteemed lord uncle from the north coming back to memory. The falcon prince they called him. Lands between Bountiful and the Stonelands upon the dying mountain range was where he reigned. He guarded the borders there which were known as Queen's Lands and acted as lord count of that area as well. A man of many titles.
Zelda continued as he pondered listening. "They must be in cahoots together keeping this massive thing a secret from me. And no matter how much I prod them, neither will budge and tell me what they brought."
Link turned to face her quizzically and she let out a sigh. "And so, I leave it at that. I'll let them keep their surprises. And a promise is a promise."
"What do you mean?"
"Oh," Zelda said, rubbing her arm. "I told them I won't sneak a peek of it without them knowing and I will wait patiently to behold it until the ascension."
The princess's swiveled to face him. "But, that being said. What about you?"
"Me?" Link gulped.
"Yeah. Surely, you must know what it is and was just testing me. Perhaps, to report back to your master Finn so he can tell to on me to my uncle? Hmm?" she said leaning into Link forcing him to take a step back nervously. Her eyes captivating him all the while wearing a tantalizing expression that made his heart thump.
"Well, you, being a soldier, and with the way you all must talk amongst yourselves, maybe you might have an idea as to what they are hiding? It was your fellow troops that brought it in, after all. Hmm?" she moved closer, diminishing the gap between them. It was then that Adeline deliberately coughed to dissipate the thickening tension, reminding the duo of her presence, leading Zelda to step back respectfully.
Blinking beneath his helmet, Link found himself surprised by her image of soldiers. She thinks we just...stand around and gossip like the ladies from her court do? Link cleared his throat and spoke up. "Actually, no, your majesty, he hasn't told me a thing, I'm afraid. That' why I asked you. Honest to goddess."
"Hmm, I see. Well, you don't strike me as a liar. So, I guess you must be telling me the truth. Darn…" Zelda conceded, continuing. "Your master, Finn, he knows what it is. Surely, he does. Strange that he hasn't told you."
Link's brows raised under his helm. He wanted to tell her that Finn wasn't his master nor was he his underwing but that would be give away his secret.
She continued. "In fact, his arrival this morning was because he was supposed to inspect it for something or another, or so I've been told. But now it seems he ran off in a hurry... I wonder where to?" The princess stood thoughtfully, cupping her chin as she assessed the mysterious, covered cargo atop the elongated wagon in front of her.
The three of them turned to gaze once more at the ginormous, tarped contraption cradled atop a float that would be wheeled off during the main parade of the celebration. It was quite the curiosity. But, Zelda shook her head of the questions and spoke. "Well, I'm sure he will get around to it."
"Hmm..." Link mused, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Well, in that case, should we be on our way, your majesty?"
"I told you, none of that remember. Today I'm only Zelda. Not your majesty, Princess, or any other high title….and you're Helmsworth," she corrected, a giggle escaping her lips. "Yes, we can depart in just a second."
Zelda spun back around exchanging her final words with Adeline, before the girl retreated back to the confines of the castle. Link stepped towards her.
"Now, there's just one last thing left to do. Almost there…" Zelda whirled away while Link curiously leaned over her shoulder to try and get a better look as to what she was doing before she abruptly twirled back to face him, startling him to trip over himself like a klutz. Link was anything but clumsy, but this girl had a strange magical wonder about her, or so it seemed. He's never been in the presence of royalty, nor that of high borne, Hylian ladies for that matter. She brought a nervousness to him that made his body act a fool.
Get a grip of yourself you lackwit. Is this how you intend to spend your day with her? You only have one chance to ever talk to this girl. Don't screw it up. Link secretly forced his body into compliance.
"See, I can just go wearing this!" She declared gleefully, watching him steady himself from a near tumble. "There we are! Observe!" Zelda announced with an air of finality. She swung her arms wide, revealing a cloak of vibrant red that when the hood lowered bounced behind her pointy ears. Her grin was the picture of youthful mischief - one about to abscond with a jar of forbidden sweets from the castle kitchens.
Link rubbed his chin skeptically. "You really think that's going to fool anyone?"
"Of course, whyever wouldn't it?" she countered, arching an eyebrow in question.
"Because you're the princess," he explained. "A simple hood isn't going to work as a disguise, that's why."
"Oh, yeah? Just like how your disguise works?" she teased back, eyeing the bucket on his head. It was a royal guardsmen's half-helm that sported a protective visor that concealed half his face, only exposing his chin and a glimpse of his grin.
She had him dead to rights with that. It stung his pride but he would never admit showing her how much. With a light chuckle, he conceded. "Yeah, but I'm a soldier. I'm not important. Just take one look at what you're wearing. Nobody I know of dresses like that—"
"-That you know of?" she said, cutting him off. "Are you," she hesitated to study him. "Are you a…commoner?"
Her interest piqued but Link couldn't tell in the moment, so he dispelled her questions with a swift answer; thinking it best not to disclose that part about him. What would she think? he wrestled in his thoughts. If I'm a commoner, she may not want to speak with me ever again. Best I keep my mouth shut on that and change the subject.
"-What I mean is, the people where you want to visit-at least that part of town don't dress the way you do."
"What's the matter with the way I'm dressed? You don't approve?" Zelda asked coyly before evaluating her own dress from top to bottom, back and front before blinking curiously at him.
In the bustling warmth of the summer, Zelda chose attire that beautifully balanced the duality of her status - a simple disguise fit for a princess on an adventure.
Dressed in a light, sleeveless tunic of soft linen. It cinched at her slender waist, defining the graceful contour of her hips. The bodice clung tenderly to her form, highlighting her delicate curves while not revealing too much. The color was a brilliant but a modest royal blue, subtly complementing the radiance of her golden hair. Its fabric, embroidered with unassuming, intricate patterns in the fashion of low nobility, spoke of a simple elegance with subtlety.
She wore a pair of form-fitting, white capri pants that stopped just below her knees, showing off the shape of her legs and giving her easy movement in the summer breeze. They were of a material that appeared commonplace but still carried an understated quality, finely spun with threads of silver to give a faint shimmer in the sunlight. Around her waist, she had a slim, tan leather belt that further accentuated her eye-catching figure. Hanging off the belt was a small satchel, both functional and fashionable, giving her a place to carry any small necessities while adding to her disguise.
To complete the ensemble, Zelda had opted for a pair of calf-high, tan leather boots. Although they were softer and lighter than typical Hylian boots, they were perfect for an adventurous day in town. The soles were not the standard thick, utilitarian soles of commoner's boots but were rather slimmer and more elegant, providing the necessary comfort for hours of walking. Adorning the boots were delicate straps crisscrossing up from the ankles to the tops, lending an interesting visual texture and a flirtatious charm to her overall outfit. At last, the boots were subtly adorned with small, silver Hylian motifs, a nod to her noble heritage cleverly hidden in plain sight.
"You don't think I look…good?" she asked again, playfully.
"That's not what I mean," the poor boy began to stammer as Zelda whirled around, entertaining him a full view of her figure to marvel at. The cloak whipped around in a brushstroke of color, adding to the elegance of her silhouette against the attire that hugged her lush shape perfectly. Link felt hot blood rush up his temples and he tried to step back to maintain a courteous distance. What is happening to me?
"Well?" She pressed, closing the gap between them for an appraisal. But Link, caught off guard, found himself dumbstruck. His thoughts raced, but his lips failed to articulate any words. Finally, he regained some composure, clearing his throat as Zelda watched him with dancing emerald eyes. On the verge of rising to her tiptoes for a peek beneath his helmet to see him true, she halted as he managed to force the words out in the nick of time. "You look...great... Excuse me." He said, his red cheeks hidden under his helm dissipating as he swallowed a breath of much needed air.
The princess took a step back. "Well, then it's settled. I should be okay," she clarified. "But, if you are still worried, perhaps this next idea I have may settle your fears. Today, I will be a handmaiden to her majesty. After all, my ladies often dress similar to what I'm wearing right now," Zelda quipped, her confidence in the plan unwavering. "See, now there's nothing to fret about my good sir."
"A lady in waiting?" Link questioned skeptically. He leaned back and firmly planted his hand on his sword hilt and pondered the notion aloud, tapping the pommel with his fingers. "What maid has an armed escort from the Castle? I don't know, I never heard of one traveling with such…protection. Not royal guards at least."
"Shh, don't worry it will absolutely work." She cut him off jovially. "Besides, I often send my girls into town to run errands for me." That may have been a lie, but he didn't have to know. Of course, anything she would ever want for the castle had plenty of. There was never a need to send for errand girls.
"I have to these days. Father has strictly forbidden me to venture into the…" Zelda realized what she was about to say and hesitated to rub her arm in shy embarrassment. "…lesser quarters of the town." She had no other way of describing it without sounding disrespectful.
That's where I'm from. Link thought as a steady bead began to drip down his brow.
She explained, trying to clarify what she meant without garnering offense. She wasn't persnickety like other court ladies. Not in the slightest. In fact, she dreaded stuffy appointments with pompous lords and wished for nothing more than to escape the constant call of duty, tradition, and etiquette around nobility.
With a wave of her hands, Zelda elaborated, "My father maintains that it's unbecoming for a lady of my standing to frequent parts of town that could be breeding grounds for ruffians, or worse, hideouts for cut throats who may be lurking to capture me for hire. The Yiga have recently issued threats, and as a result, I am only allowed to roam within the confines of the nobility quarter. Apparently, there's quite a sizable bounty on my head."
"Really now?" Link responded, the edges of a jest curling his lips. An amused smirk unfolded across his face as he continued, "A sizable bounty, you say?"
Zelda lightly jabbed his elbow, a playful glint in her eyes. "I'm serious!"
"And so am I!" he bantered. Zelda's mouth nearly fell open, and she was about to jab him again when he added, "Serious about ensuring your safety, that is."
Shaking her head, the princess attempted to stifle her blush, then resumed her mild tirade about her father. "And he insists that I can only venture out during daylight hours. The noble districts are patrolled by men from the royal guard, you see. Men like you, in fact," she teased, stepping back to examine the modest carriage he had managed to arrange. "Young men with something... to prove." She let out a soft chuckle, swiveling back to face him.
Though she knew that if truth be told, the Royal Guard had anything but young men among their ranks. They were mostly made up of old, battle-hardened war veterans but that still didn't stop her in her jest. Link feigned to be unamused by her joke and stood still pretending not to care.
So, she cleared her throat in protest of him not budging with her explanation and smiled it off. "But look, I don't care what he says. I'm not afraid to see my own city. And now, especially with you by my side, I know I'll be safe." The princess lunged a step toward him, making it hard for him to say no.
She reached for his arm, and sweetly pulled on his iron cladded wrist guard. "Finn said you're quite the talented swordsman and it's just for a few hours anyway." Her eyes met him brightly, trying to coax him with all the power a lady could muster. "Then you can bring me back. I promise. C'mon, I know you want to," she pleaded, fluttering those delicate lashes of hers at him that somehow, he hated to admit already won his heart over. Granted, she was the first and only girl he ever had eyes for. He had only just met her, but even still, there was already a spark there. It wasn't just a silly boy's infatuation. Sure, it may have started out as such but now… now it was different. He couldn't explain it.
Sure, he had seen other pretty young ladies come and go before, he wasn't blind by no means, but none that he ever met were like her. There was something beyond her beauty. Something much more than that. An intangible magnetism that evoked a profundity of feeling he struggled to define. Today thus far proved as such. Just being around her invoked strange new feelings that came alive inside him for the first time in his life.
At first, it all began when he gazed upon her from afar in the training yard that day when he was practicing atop the barrels under the stern guidance of his father. In that sacred moment, by some dumb luck from the goddess herself, this jewel of a girl, this princess, met glances with him briefly and gave him and nobody else, a low-born boy from Scrapbottom, the time of day with a smile. All the while ignoring the shouting crowd that pursued her. And though she doesn't know it's him who she saw that afternoon, she soon will.
What sort of spell could I be under to abandon all reason for this girl, he thought, pondering her plea to venture into the city. If anything happens, it would be my neck that visits the headsman's block, not hers. The dungeons would be a mercy at that point.
Link squirmed for half a moment before letting out an exasperated breath of defeat. "Alright," he relented, waving his hand in explanation. "But, only on one condition….If we do this you are going to have to follow my lead and do things my way. None of that royal stuff where we are heading. If not, they will recognize you for sure. Deal?"
"Deal! Lead the way my gallant protector. Or shall I say, Sir-Helmsworth!" she quipped, flapping the hood over her hair with a playful wink of encouragement.
In ladylike fashion, she looped her arm through his, allowing him to guide her to the carriage. Once met, the disguised knight, in a chivalrous gesture, helped her up onto the padded, tan, leather-stitched seat which provided a splendid view of the castle gates and their imminent journey into town. Zelda offered him a gracious smile as he finished their arrangements. Once done, she softly patted the cushion beside her, signaling him to join her. After all, he was meant to be her coachman, and it wasn't practical to ride a royal palanquin into town as it would attract too much attention from the low folk. However, this humble carriage, more luxurious than most, led by a gentle, chestnut-colored mare named Eponair - a name meaning swift pony of the wind- would be a perfect fit.
As the two descended through the lively streets of Castle Town into the nobility district, they couldn't help but sneak glances at one another, each feeling a growing sense of attraction and curiosity. The ride was lighthearted and strangely enough, whatever Link's worries he had, evaporated in her smiles. The playful banter between them continued, occasionally bordering on flirtatious, as they exchanged teasing remarks and shared secretive glances.
At one point, Zelda mischievously fell into Link, pretending it was an accident when he got distracted by her. For a brief moment, he'd forgotten he was the driver.
"So, helmsworth, do you always sneak away girls against their father's orders into the city?" That was the last thing he heard before getting lost in her eyes. His world stood still but continued to pass him by. Suddenly he had to make an abrupt, evasive turn to avoid crashing into a vendor who's been selling fine ointments and linens in the square. The sudden jolt and veer around a bend naturally caused a shift in momentum. Zelda, however, may have exaggerated the effect just a tad, leaning into him with a dramatic flair. It was, perhaps, a calculated move to create another point of contact, a plausible theory considering her mischievous behavior.
Though as she done so, a voice inside her protested against her actions. What has gotten into you, Zelda? Calm yourself. This isn't like you. You're behaving childish and he is likely to think you are one if you don't stop. You're going to spoil it.
She couldn't help but giggle silently at herself and then even more so aloud when he feigned shock when her body leaned into his. Her sudden touch from bumping into him so close, electrified his senses. Link couldn't help but join her laughter, feeling a warmth in his chest that he hadn't experienced in a long time, if ever. They had made quite the commotion speeding through the square. Nobles and merchants alike had to dart out of the way moments earlier. Zelda's face brightened with amusement at the scandalized expressions of the high-born ladies who clutched their pearls, those that believed they deserved their own private lanes.
Recovering, Link yanked on the reins, bringing the carriage to a skidding halt. In between their shared laughter, he placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, ensuring her safety. "Are you alright? I didn't mean for that to happen, the reins got away from me."
"Oh really? So, that is what happened?" She retorted; her voice laced with skepticism. "I see. So, it was this gentle mare's blunder, was it? I find that hard to believe." She attempted to suppress her giggles behind her hand. "More like the fault of a mad driver, I'd wager.''
Link teased back. "No, it was yours."
Zelda's mouth fell open, her lashes fluttering in disbelief at his audacity. "Oh, so it's my fault now! I see... So, that's the kind of day we're having, is it?" she struggled to hold back her smiles. She was determined not to let him savor the triumph too easily.
"Well, you did say you desired an exciting adventure," Link countered. "Here you are, Your Highness, a thrilling adventure, at your leisure!"
"I mentioned an adventure, not a death-defying feat!" she retorted, barely stifling her laughter.
"Death-defying? That was nothing. Just an ordinary Tuesday afternoon for me," Link confessed. "Don't they typically enjoy rides like this at the castle? I always drive this way."
"Always!?" Who is this boy? He is so daring. Isn't he worried we'll be caught? Or perhaps he is beyond worrying? I must find out who he is.
"But, if Her Majesty prefers a milder form of excitement, I am certainly capable of fulfilling her wishes."
"And I've told you, no more of that!" she reprimanded, jabbing him playfully with her elbow as he wrestled with the reins, which had slipped over the edge of the footboard. "Enough with the formalities." Zelda realized she may have overplayed her hand earlier and averted her gaze, hoping the sudden warmth flushing her skin would go unnoticed. Fortunately, he was preoccupied with steadying their course and calming the mare.
"You've certainly delivered on your promise of excitement so far," she said, her breath still hitched from the thrilling descent down the cobblestone street of the town square. "This has become quite the adventure and it's not even midday yet. If only all my subjects were as true to their word as you have been," she said, a soft chuckle escaping her lips, her hand elegantly covering her mouth in a display of royal modesty.
"Tell me…" she jested. "Are you sure you want to live to see the trials today? Or, is this some ill attempt to get out of the challenges that await you later? Your actions as of late protest your words, Sir-Helmsworth," she said with a snark at the end, making fun of his obviously made-up name.
"I was merely trying to satisfy the desires of m'lady, that's all," Link said, bowing his head. They both sat still in the carriage and just as Zelda was going to rebut him, she realized where they were at. It was one of her favorite parts of town. Well, the only part of town she was allowed to visit really. And aside from frightening half the people on the street with their wild riding, she realized this would be a perfect opportunity to make a stop.
"Well, this looks to be as good an area as any to begin the day. Wouldn't you agree?"
"I wouldn't know," Link said, rubbing the back of his neck.
Aha, I knew it, he is a commoner! He has to be. I mean, every noble south of the King's Road knows of this place and yet he hasn't been here? Zelda squinted at his words, trying to solve the riddle of who he was. Link realized he may have slipped up so spoke more to the matter. "Well, I mean, I haven't been here in a long while, that is. I'm too busy training from sunup to dusk. I aim to master the trials at the festival."
"Oh, really?" Zelda leaned into him, trying to make him squirm.
Why does she have to do that? Look at me that way. Link fought the urge to relent and showed much courage in her attempts to make him feel uneasy, so the disguised knight coughed, "So, is this where m 'lady wants to disembark?"
Zelda fell back against the cushion of her seat. "Yes, this will suit us well." Little by little she will solve the mystery to the identity of this young warrior. One way or another.
"There, I secured the trunk." Link said, fastening a lock and belt over the secretive chest she had behind them on the carriage. Zelda stood by as he worked quickly with tying the mare to a hitching post so they can wander about on foot. "Don't worry, m 'lady, it won't come loose in a hurry and this old girl seems calm enough that she won't wonder off without us."
"I told you no more titles."
"I know, but I can't call you Zelda either, Your Highness. You're supposed to be in hiding remember?"
Zelda's face lit up at the notion and her mouth opened. "Oh, you're quite right. Well in that case, call me…" she had to ponder a moment. After a moment of pause in the summer breeze and with a squint and smile she decided on a name. "Call me, Tetra."
Link leaned his head back before nodding. "Tetra, eh, I like it. Sure, that'll serve. Okay, you ready? Oh, and don't you worry about the chest, I secured it. Nobody will be able to make off with it while we are away from the carriage."
"That's good to hear my gallant protector, but you're the one that shouldn't have to worry," She giggled, facing away from him, and shaking her head.
"What's so funny?" he asked confused. "I don't want some thief to run off with your belongings, my—"
"—Exactly!" she continued. "Take a look around you. Look at where we are. This is Sapphire Street. We're still in the nobility quarter and are yet to past through Union bridge into the commoner districts. In particular, this is where Zora come to make trade with us. As it is so named. There's Sapphire Street for the Zora, Ruby Road for the Gorons and—"
"—Topaz Terrace for the Gerudo?" Link finished for her.
"—Why, yes… So, you do know?" Darn, now I'm confused. Is he a commoner or not? I guess I'll keep looking for clues. Just when I thought I had him.
"Yes, forgive me, I was distracted by a shouting haggler who is…" Link's voice trailed off to the commotion brewing behind her and Zelda looked at him questionably.
"Who?" she breathed.
"Who is coming this way. Hold on. This will take but a moment," Link said stoically, stepping in front of her. The sun was beginning to rise high in the sky now and the man was stomping straight toward them. Zelda flung her hood over.
"You…you inconsiderate, how dare you!" the man scorned. "You nearly trashed my shop racing in the way you did and now look; my customers have fled! Keep that wild beast of yours under control!"
The merchant was a rotund Hylian who had a double helping of chin. He had a horse toothed mug and an untamed shadow of a beard to match. He didn't dress like the local Hylians did either and wore clothes befitting one from the desert. Dressed in nothing but a thin, dark silk vest, he was a sight that Link found hard to ignore. Sweat dotted his hairy chest and unshapely nipples, gleaming in the summer sun. To add to the spectacle, his neck was adorned with an array of cheap baubles. Fool's gold chains and dime-a-dozen amulets clattered around his neck, creating a distracting jingle with every move he made. He poked at Link's chest plate with an aggravated shove of his sausage fingers adorned with jeweled rings. Despite the overt provocation, Link remained unflinching, choosing to maintain his dignity and take the moral high ground.
"My apologies my good sir, we will be more careful here on out," Link said.
"Bah! Careful! I want compensation!" The man stomped on one leg and folded his elephant arms over the rolls of his belly. Good goddess, Zelda thought. I can smell the stench from his pits all the way over here. Hasn't he ever heard of a bath?
Link didn't budge though. "Compensation? For what? You're alive, aren't you? I'm not giving you a rupee. But, if you want trouble, you can—" Link gripped his sword hilt.
Feeling the situation escalate, Zelda stepped in. "—Easy does it my good sirs!" the disguised princess said aloud, stealing both their attention. "Mayhaps I can help? There's no need for violence here. It was just a misunderstanding, that's all." Zelda interrupted, stepping in front and between, secretly nudging Link to follow her lead and stand back.
She advanced towards the man, a deliberate sway in her hips. She knew exactly how to appeal to men of his ilk while maintaining her dignity, making sure not to come off as a common strumpet. "Look, my kind and... noble..." Zelda faltered, searching for the right words but they seemed to get caught in her throat. "Uh... handsome sir," she resumed, giving a gracious curtsey, her cloak fanning out behind her.
Handsome!? Link shot her a confused look under his helm.
And even though she would be hardly sixteen by the marrow's twilight, she had the shape of a woman's beauty and body beyond her years. That was all she needed to appease this oaf. I mean, of course it was. She knew his type. The slimy, walrus man couldn't help but give her his undivided attention now. The burly man was clearly enchanted by her charm and didn't bother to conceal it. As she continued speaking, he responded with lecherous grins and licked his lips, unable to look away. Zelda did her best to ignore his overt interest, while Link prepared to step in if the man disrespected her further.
With a honeysweet voice, Zelda continued to plead their case. "Could it be found in your gracious heart to forgive us this one trespass? On our behalf I apologize. It was an accident, and this mare here must have caught the scent of a strapping stallion nearby on the wind and lost all control. She is in season," she fibbed. It's possible she may have been telling the truth, but she was no horse master to know elsewise. But there was no way the likes of him would know that. He probably couldn't tell the difference between a mare or stallion-or his own ass from a horse for that matter.
From an early age, young comely women in her position learned the art of flattery, of how to manipulate the egos of self-important men. Such men who often gawked at her and her fellow court ladies with lecherous intent. Zelda detested resorting to such measures, yet, in this instance, she conceded it could prove useful. Despite this man being no lord, he certainly viewed himself as one, considering his position as a prosperous trader in town.
The man's demeanor softened by her calm nature.
"Please forgive my attendant here," she said. "I am on errand from her majesty, you see, and he was only making sure my task would be done in a timely manner. You know how Royal Guardmen can be." Zelda jabbed secretly at Link, all the while speaking to the man. "They really take their duty seriously."
Zelda couldn't believe the words escaping her lips. My Hylia, where can I find a mirror so I can see the reflection of the girl who's been talking all morning. Because she sure isn't me. Never in her wildest dreams could she have imagined herself behaving this boldly. Yet, there she was, playing the part. Something about this boy lit a fire inside her. Like a daring part of her finally awoken that had been asleep all her life. Link's presence fueled her. It was as if she could do anything, so long he was beside her. And the craziest thing of all, she didn't even know his name.
The man nearly fell back at the mention of the princess. "R-royal guardsmen?" The only two rolling marbles in this buffoon's head finally clicked together, noticing the insignia across Link's chest plate. It was an old uniform that much was true, but still one of their garbs, nevertheless. Now, he was the one shaking where he stood. "H-her majesty? She sent you!? Beg your pardons, please forgive me. We shall forget this whole thing happened. Please, may I bid you both good day." The man bowed and returned to his shop stand as if the entire ordeal was a figment of his imagination.
Link stood perplexed by what just happened.
"See, was that so difficult?" Zelda said, turning to nudge him. "You know, a little kindness could go a long way, mister swordman. Not everything needs to be a battle." Zelda proceeded to whisper to herself as she strode away eleganty. "Boys…pff, they think every problem can be solved with their sword."
Link rubbed the back of his head in awe at her prowess in diffusing the situation. He couldn't decide if he was going mad or falling in love with this girl. Both seemed plausible at this point.
In that instant, she spun around, and Link saw Zelda's eyes come alive. Suddenly, her dainty nose wiggled from a delectable aroma that wafted on the wind. "Come, I have something I want to show you!" she declared, her voice brimming with excitement. She grabbed his arm and led him down a lane lined with shops.
"Tell me, Sir-Helmsworth, have you ever tried the sweet pastries from none other than Erolin's Sweet Sanctuary? They're quite famous, even at the castle you be hard pressed to find better. We have them delivered special on occasion, in fact."
Link, still trying to maintain his reserved demeanor, replied, "I can't say that I have, Tetra," he said playing along. "As a guardsman, I must maintain a strict diet to stay fit and alert," he finished with a tease.
Zelda looked him up and down, taking in his chiseled shape through his guardsman's uniform. She couldn't help but feel a spark of attraction as she feigned a look of concern. "Oh, I see. Well, we wouldn't want you to lose that impressive physique of yours, now, would we? After all, you're going to need all the strength you can get for the trials later," she said with a playful snark. "But surely, a small indulgence wouldn't hurt, would it?"
Link glanced at her, a hint of a smile forming behind his stoic expression under the shadow of his helm. "Well, perhaps just one wouldn't do any harm. If my lady wishes."
"I do!" Zelda grinned, pleased with her small victory. "Splendid! Let's go then. I've always wanted to share those pastries with someone who could truly appreciate them. You're going to love them."
If only she knew how much Link enjoyed a good meal, let alone a sweet confectionary delight. They were rare for him. Growing up as a low born commoner, he didn't have the luxury of tasty treats. So, he savored them dearly whenever he could afford one.
Zelda led Link into the bakery by the arm. The warm and inviting scent of freshly baked pastries, confections and all manner of hand-crafted delights filled their nostrils as they entered the building. The shop was dainty and cozy, with wooden shelves displaying an assortment of mouthwatering goodies. Behind the counter stood the shopkeeper, a plump, rosy-cheeked man with a bushy white mustache that curled at the ends. He greeted them with a jovial smile, clearly proud of his establishment.
"Welcome, welcome! What can I get for you fine folks today?" the shopkeeper asked.
Zelda and Link were so engrossed in their playful banter as they made their way to the displays that they barely noticed him at first. There, Link pointed to a particular strudel that was shaped like a cucco. He was whispering beside her, telling her that maybe she should indulge in a bite of that one since it will be the only time anyone could ever eat a cucco and live to tell the tale.
Zelda tapped Link's arm back while smiling at his jest, trying to get him to pick a pastry for him instead, but he feigned ignorance, pretending not to know which one to choose. He loved them all. How could anyone make a choice with so many delightful options. All were bound to satisfy the senses.
"Come now, Sir Helmsworth, surely a well-trained guardsman such as yourself can make a simple decision like this?" Zelda teased, her eyes dancing with mirth.
Link played along, adopting a mock-serious tone. "Indeed, Miss Tetra, but as you said earlier, I must be cautious not to jeopardize my strict diet. So, it needs to be satisfying enough to fill me, yet tasty enough so that I won't be forced to have another."
"Forced?" Zelda rolled her eyes playfully at his silly explanation and pointed to a round, poofy pastry filled with sweet cream and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. "Okay then, how about you try this one. It's called a 'Heavenly Puff.' I promise it won't sabotage your training regimen."
The shopkeeper, who had been waiting patiently for their order, coughed to be noticed during their exchange. "Ah, we finally made a decision, eh? The Heavenly Puff is an excellent choice! How many would you like?"
Link and Zelda, both still didn't notice him, still wrapped up in their flirtatious conversation, pointing and making jokes about the desserts on display. The shopkeeper waited patiently, his amusement growing as he watched the pair go at it back and forth, reminding him of his earlier days. Ah, to be young and in love and so full of promise, The man thought.
Finally, Zelda turned to the shopkeeper and said, "We'll take two, please."
"Sure thing, young lady." The man bellowed. As the shopkeeper prepared their order, Zelda and Link continued their banter, completely oblivious to the world around them. Their chemistry was undeniable, and it was clear that this chance encounter had sparked something special between them.
"So, are you going to take that bucket off your head to give this delectable treat a try?" she nudged as the shopkeeper prepared their order.
"Not a chance." He replied coolly. "My visor won't get in the way, don't worry."
The baker finished and spoke. "No need to pay. Seeing is that you two make such a lovely couple, these are on the house."
Link swallowed at the man's words and replied by sheer instinct. "Actually, we're not a—"
"Now, now, lad, I may be old but I'm not blind to love when I see it. No need to thank me, now please, enjoy." Not taking no for an answer, the baker handed them each their pastry and with nothing left to do but taste, they simultaneously prepared to take a bite.
Zelda spun to face him, armed with her dessert in hand. "Okay, are you ready to behold this magnificent treasure? Here goes! On three….One, two—" But Link couldn't wait and took his bite prematurely. Zelda couldn't help but roll her eyes, wearing a smile at his childish antics and decided to follow him with a taste too.
It was an explosion of flavor in their mouths. Each part of the dessert was like a note to a symphony of sweet heavenly goodness. The dough was airy, soft and had a hint of mild sweetness with a bit of buttery flakiness. On the inside it perfectly balanced the crust with a burst of decadent, smooth, white cream. And to top it off, it was dusted in a snowfall of powdery sugar. Although Zelda couldn't see the expression of his eyes under his helm, she knew he must have been in heaven by the way he licked the sugary dust off his lips. Link on the other hand, chuckled softly afterwards and made a gesture to her nose.
What's wrong?" she asked with a flirtatious hint of mystery, perplexed by his persistent pointing.
Link continued, directing her attention towards the powdered sugar that had taken up residence on her nose. At the same time, he wrestled the remaining chunk of his pastry to be ready for another manageable bite.
"What? What is it?" she pressed, setting aside her own sweet treat in a futile search for a mirror within the baker's humble establishment. Unfortunately, none could be found.
Link, struggling to suppress his amusement, chimed in with a solution. "Here, let me..." But as he advanced to assist her, he found himself caught up in a wave of cheeky reconsideration.
"Hold still, m'lady," he began, before pulling back with a mischievous grin. "Actually, on second thought...nevermind."
"On second thought, what!?" Zelda cut in. With a swift, playful motion, she squished the dessert he was about to indulge in into his chin, robbing him of his final, anticipated bite.
"There, now we're a match for sure!" Zelda giggled lightly. Link's lower helm was a mess and his chin was covered in pastry. Stunned the knight took a step back, fighting the smile all the while. "Well, excuse me, Princess," he said.
"Shh! I'm Tetra, remember?!" she reminded him, looking over both shoulders to make sure nobody heard him in the busy store. Watching him squirm was pure satisfaction and she giggled softly as he had to ask the shopkeeper for a cloth to clean up.
When finished, she motioned him to lend her the rag, but Link feigned not to care or relent.
"Oh, you're terrible!" Zelda said with a phony pout and stomp.
"Fine, fine. I suppose I can give you the rag," Link conceded. "After all, I do owe you for the treat, Tetra."
And with that, they cleaned up and departed the shop to embark on their next adventure into the city.
They boarded the carriage, and strolled through the bustling streets of Castle Town. The sights, sounds, and smells surrounded them as they rode through the streets and under union bridge where all the districts met before the grand portcullis gate. This was the heartbeat of the city. The aroma of freshly baked bread and roasting meats on spits from the lower quarters wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of flowers from the market stalls. Sweet Honeysuckles and Lilacs were abloom, and bees buzzed about them. New honey would be harvested soon from fresh combs, and the streets were alive with laughter and chatter, as people went about their daily business. Even a pair of hummingbirds entertained their presence, darted back and forth around their carriage, humming sweet songs nearby as if for them.
They were entering the commoner districts now. The people here were far less formal than the haughty type from near the castle and the roads were jam packed with people from all walks of life. Link pulled gently on the reins, slowing the carriage to a walking pace through the cobblestone roads; taking care this time to avoid running over fellow citizens. After all, this was his part of town now.
Here the city teemed with life. From shouting hagglers to out of town tradesmen, to farmers and street dancers, the city was bursting with excitement at every corner. Mummers performed where space could be found for loose green rupees and the laughter of children playing filled the air like music. A group of kids were chasing a cucco by the grand fountain while their parents' purchased supplies for the forthcoming festivities. People crisscrossed every which way, and everyone seemed to have to be somewhere and nowhere at the same time.
They were nearing Scrapbottom, an endearing name given to the district by the locals. Besides being home to many famous destinations, scandalous or ordinary it was more importantly Link's home. Though his father may have inherited the claim to his uncle's large farm in Cidermeadow fields on Orchard Row, the gambling debts he incurred in life were far too great and he owed rupees to one too many bad persons. For that, Link's father was forced to surrender the fief back to the lord of the land. Lord Ingomott. A cruel penny counter and borderline thief.
Since then, they were more akin to tenant farmers than owners. Every crop they labored under the summer sun was sold to settle a debt. Which by Link's calculation if all went well-which it hardly did- wouldn't even be paid back in two lifetimes let alone one. That reality dashed any dreams he had of leaving the city. His only hope was to secure a position in the royal guard, as the salary accompanying service to the royal family would certainly outpace the meager earnings from apple crops.
They were passing by now another famous establishment and one that brought many fond memories to Link, a particular recollection that happened recently. He wondered if she felt the same way. After all, it was of her. To their left on the side of the road stood a proud, grand tavern and adjacently, an Inn. This was Romani's Milk and Brew. Home to the best milk brew this side of the Old King's Road.
Link was on the verge of probing whether she also harbored any feelings for this part of town, when suddenly the bells tolled. High up in the steeple of the grand sanctuary and from the smaller houses of holiness dotting across the land, the loud welcoming chimes echoed throughout the city. Link slid the carriage to a halt so they could listen.
"A procession?" Zelda asked curiously. The mare neighed as if to confirm her guess, whipping her white tail back and forth just to be sure.
"Do you have a royal appointment you need to be at?" Link joked. "Because you know, I can turn this old girl around and—"
She smiled at him. "-No, not me. Look, over there, coming in through the main wall of town, down the hill, do you see?" she pointed, Link glancing in the directions of her words.
Horns blew, competing against the ringing of bells with songs of their own and one by one lines of soldiers flanked by armored horses marched through the wide gates of Castle town. Their hooves and footsteps moved in unison with impeccable precision, beating in rhythmic symphony against the cobblestones. Tall banners billowed and snapped in the wind behind them, each proudly bearing the heraldry of the various Hylian nobility of Hyrule. Soon, a mass of decorated armies representing each of their noble houses entered the city led by a parade of wheelhouses carrying their Lords. Following them were free riders and camp followers that surely made the long journey from distant lands with them. People cheered their arrival from the sides of the streets. Children could be seen throwing flower pedals heralding them as they marched by.
She was even lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a pair of towering Mammoderms trailing at the tail end of the column. Holodrumian nomads, she thought. Only they were known to ride such awe-inspiring beasts from far off regions beyond Gerudo Valley and past the Barren Salt Seas to the far east. They were the first she'd ever seen.
Urbosa had spun stories of these majestic creatures, painting a vivid picture that had stuck with her since she was a little girl. She had told of how they roamed the great Eastern Wastes and savannahs in massive herds, mirroring the Gerudo themselves with hardly ever a male in sight. If one was present, he was easily distinguishable due to his enormous size, large ears and razor-sharp tusks, a stark contrast to the daintier ears and stubby, rounded tusks of the females. The Kingstooth they called him, or Tusk if ever spotted. Named so because they were prized for their sharp tusks, fabled to be like scimitars and tougher than dragon scales. Yet, even with that, they were also rumored to be fierce and untamable unlike their female counterparts. Their sole purpose was to rule and protect the herd while fathering the next generation for a century to come. This pair that rode in must have been female she surmised.
Oh, how she would love to pet one up close, let alone ride such a magnificent creature. She wondered while stewing in her seat if Sir Helmsworth would want to as well.
The thought of him saddling up behind her atop one brought a warm blush to her face. What has gotten into me? I hardly know him.
"They…they are here for the ceremony," Zelda remarked, clearing her throat, to dispel the flush shone across her cheeks.
"And here I thought the town couldn't get any more crowded," Link muttered under his breath, although Zelda caught his comment.
"Don't worry, everyone will have a roof over their heads and a brazier to warm them by day's end, I'm sure. As we speak, grand pavilions are being prepared for those who need them on the bluffs near the castle, at the Queen's meadow," Zelda assured him. "Shall we make a stop? I like it here. It brings me back good memories," she said gleefully.
Link gulped at her comment, unsure by what she meant but played it off coolly as if he had no idea. "Sure, I don't mind."
The knight to be chivalrously lowered her from the carriage and hitched up their four legged companion to a galley of posts where other horses were tied.
"After you, Tetra." Link said, performing a bow.
No sooner have they made their way down the busy square did a pair of double wide wooden doors to a nearby house of holiness swing wide open. Out from the church came a small gathering of people and leading at the front of the yard was a young couple who Zelda guessed had to be in their early twenties. Older than her for sure but not by much. They were such a cute pair she thought. In some ways, the girl reminded her of herself, or at least what she imagined she would be if she had milk-chocolate colored hair instead of blonde and was older. Although her man was taller than Helmsworth, he was thin and soft rather than well-defined and strong. His face was comely enough though and so she could see the attraction. Both were lit up by wide smiles and they had stars were in their eyes, she could tell. Today must have been a special day for them.
The couple waved goodbye to a clergyman of Hylia who bid his farewell in return. Shortly afterwards the pair made their way right towards where Link and Zelda had begun their stroll.
"Oh, I see!" Zelda said delighted. "I get it!" Link's face went perplexed.
"Huh, get what?" he asked.
"Shh, come follow me and you will find out."
"Um, you want us to follow…that couple?" Link asked confused, scratching his chin, curious to what this girl was up to.
"Yes, trust me," Zelda giggled. "You'll understand soon enough." And sure enough, the couple approached and walked right past them, lost in their own little world of happiness as they walked the sidewalks of town. Their left was lined with shops, many with open windows displaying what types of goods and wears they had to offer.
At Zelda's behest, Link led them both behind the couple inconspicuously like a couple of sheikah ninjas. The princess flapped her hood over and Link led her graciously by the hand. Sneaky as a pair of cats. Keeping their distance yet following closely. He was still not sure what the princess had planned but decided to play along anyway. Why not, he thought. It might even be fun.
They didn't have to trail far from their carriage. The couple stopped at a textile and linen merchant to have a look through the glass showcase on display in the window. Zelda, standing beside Link scooted up beside them, feigning interest through the shop window as well, hearing what they were chattering to each other. The couple hardly noticed her, locked in conversation of their own. Link just stood by and remained silent behind her and watched this wacky girl work her magic.
"Don't worry my dear, soon we will be wed and then, our happily ever after will finally begin. We've waited so long. And now I'm finally here by your side, now and for always." The man said, his lady hugging his arm, giving him a romantic squeeze at his words.
He leaned his head to the side over hers as he continued to hug her, staring into the shop.
"The priest assures me he can do the ceremony in time for the great festival."
"Two days can't come soon enough." The girl whispered back, her eyes ashine with hope and promise. "Oh, won't it be wonderful Kafei? The princess will ascend to her rightful place as heir to the goddess and you and I will finally be husband and wife. We waited so long and now that my father has gave us his acceptance, we can be married. Oh, how the heavens have aligned! First my father and now the festival. I couldn't think of a better day to celebrate our union. Surely, the goddesses will favor and shower us with blessings for saving ourselves for this memorable day."
"And by blessings, you mean sons, right? I mean to raise three strong lads."
"Girls! Three daughters are what you mean," She corrected wiping the smirk from his chin.
"If that is what my love desires." He returned. Her face suddenly went downcast, and she spoke softly again with a hitch in her voice. "But…Can we afford such an extravagance? You don't have to do this Kafei."
"I will do anything for us, Anjuel. I will sell all I own if I must!" he assured her, falling to one knee, prepared to voice his love aloud for all to witness.
"You can't do that, what about our future?" she said sheepishly, about to cue him to stand up. "You work hard as it is my dear. I don't need this sort of dress. It's too much. Gaudy, in fact. I would prefer a humbler gown, like the one my mother and grandmother had. I'm sure they wouldn't mind lending it to me to on our wedding night," she assured again. In truth, the item she referred to was ancient and moth-eaten. The threads were coming loose, and it smelled of age old parties from centuries past with the taint of spilled wine and smokey halls. When the girl spoke of it, Zelda could see the lie in her eyes, her words betraying her emotions.
Kafei also saw the look in her eyes and remembered when she first spotted the dress on display in this shop days and days ago. She nearly died when she stumbled upon it. It was love at first sight here and it was obvious she was only being nice to save his feelings. It had become apparent to Zelda that they were poorer than most.
Zelda turned nonchalantly to face Link and whispered. "Psst, hey, can you do me a favor Sir-Helmsworth?"
Link awoke where he stood. Finally, were doing something. "Sure, what is it, m 'lady?" he said facetiously.
Zelda nudged him. "Shh, not so loud," she said softly with a big grin. "Could you fetch me my trunk from the carriage and bring it here?"
That didn't seem to be no problem so Link nodded and went back to their coach. While pretending to be enchanted by the dress inside the shopkeeper's display case, the princess continued to gather more intel on the couple. The dress they were marveling over was perched on a mannequin by a window, where sun's rays kissed its fabric. The base color was a deep Hylian blue and with wisps of cream in certain parts, reminiscent of the endless skies and clouds over Hyrule Field. It was a nicely made dress, but plain by Royal standards. Perhaps, one of low nobility would wear on any normal occasion. Zelda knew she could do better and in fact, just as she was thinking that, Link had returned with the chest.
The couple remained trading whispers with each other. "Don't worry dear, I can pay it off. I can sell the farm in Hateno."
"No, you mustn't, it's fine dear. I'll be alright, honestly—"
"-I insist, If my wife to be wants this gown, I can surely make her dreams come true." The man said, placing a shushed finger to her lips. "I owe it to our love. She only gets married once, after all."
"Oh, Kafei, you shouldn't have to, I'll be okay, I—"
"Excuse me," Zelda chirped beside them. "Pardon me for interrupting, but I couldn't help myself but overhear."
"I'm sorry, you had to hear our little debate," the girl began to explain, but Zelda continued, a sparkle in her eyes. "It's quite alright, in fact, I think I can help…. That is, if you don't mind me doing so."
"Oh, that is very kind of you, miss, but we couldn't possibly—"
"I insist!" Zelda declared happily. "Sir-helmsworth, open the trunk." Zelda ordered her attendant, trying to hold back the smile and surprise. Link undid the latch and kicked the chest open, revealing the splendor of its contents. Inside were fanciful garments and linens, worthy of royalty. One particular gown caught the eye of Zelda and she leaned to reach for it to hold it up for them to marvel at. It was the luxurious gown she had been given earlier that day by the pompous ambassador from Hytopia.
The young bride-to-be went awestruck. Never could she have dreamed to see such a marvelous dress up in person. Zelda approached her, her smile brightening, coaxing the girl to have a feel of the fabric herself. "It is yours if it pleases you," Zelda said warmly.
The bodice was fitted, adorned with embroidered patterns of silver and gold that snaked their way across it like the ancient vines in the Lost Woods. Like the dress on display in the shop, it too was blue and mother of pearl on its accents, with a hint of green flare though. The bell-shaped sleeves, long and graceful, reminded her of the gowns worn by queens in the old tales. Each sleeve was lovingly embellished with embroidery at the cuffs, and the patterns seemed to whisper stories.
Anjuel's heart skipped a beat as she admired the neckline – a modest, square cut, both elegant and befitting a noble. The lace that adorned it was finer than spider's silk, and she could almost feel the cool ocean breeze just by looking at it. The gems embedded within the lace were the color of fresh spring leaves and seemed to hold the very essence of the forest.
Around the waist was a sash of soft green, with flowing ends that rustled like the wind through the trees. The sash was reminiscent of the fields and meadows that surrounded Castle Town.
As Anjuel moved closer, she noticed the faint outline of the crests of the goddesses, expertly woven into the fabric with a golden thread that shimmered with an inner light.
At a loss for words by the Tetra's generosity, Ajuel stammered, "M 'Lady, we couldn't possibly accept such a valuable gift..."
"Please, I insist." Zelda assured. "This gown is far too beautiful to remain hidden away in a trunk, never to be worn. I would be delighted if you wore it on your special day. It is yours. For you and your posterity to cherish. I want your special day to be one that you will remember all the days of your lives."
The young woman's eyes filled with tears of gratitude as she held the gown. "Thank you. I... I don't know what to say. Who, who are you?"
Her husband-to-be chimed in, equally grateful. "Your kindness knows no bounds, stranger. We are truly honored. But, that being said, we cannot accept such a rare treasure. Why, this must have cost a fortune. I couldn't hope to earn enough rupees to cover such a cost in an entire lifetime. Even if I sold the farm. It's…it's too much."
Zelda lowered her hood, stood up proudly and revealed her face to them, smiling. "It would do me a great honor if you would accept. It is no burden for me, for it is I, your Princess that stands before you now."
Humbled by the revelation, the couple fell to one knee in reverence. "Y-your, your majesty, we couldn't possibly. You are far too kind. This is too much; I couldn't ever be able to pay for such a—"
Zelda continued, speaking joyfully. "-There is no need to kneel and there is no need for payment. Now, rise, I am in hiding today." Zelda giggled softly, flapping the hood back over her shoulder, winking at the girl. Anjuel was on the verge of tears, she couldn't believe what was happening.
Seeing the girl so happy, that was when the dam broke and the princess couldn't help the tears welling up in her own eyes. Luckily, she was able to fight back the cry and with her heart filled with joy at their happiness she spoke more. "In fact, I command that you enjoy this gift freely. It would delight me to see you wear it on your wedding day."
Zelda beamed at both of them, placed a soothing hand on each of their shoulders and spoke again. "It is my pleasure to honor you with this. I wish you both a lifetime of love and happiness together. The goddess above I know would want this and even now I know she smiles down upon you both."
"We shall never forget this kindness your grace," said the girl softly.
Zelda smiled and whispered back. "Shh, I know. Now, no more tears, this cause for you both to celebrate. Go and prepare for your wedding and when the day comes that I ascend the princess throne, it is my wish that you seek me out. Here is a royal locket. It carries my emblem and with this you, and your closest kin will be welcomed at my table during the final feast. A toast will be made to the both of you." The princess unlatched her necklace and gave it to the girl. "Show this to my guardsmen and they will grant you access to see me in two days." Zelda beamed again and the girl kissed her hand before taking the locket and biding farewell down the street. And before long, they were gone. The happy couple had departed with their trunk of treasure and the Princess's heart was swelling to the point of bursting.
Link was in awe. He had no idea that this girl, this princess, could have had such a tender heart. His entire notion of royalty was turned on its head. The lords he knew were greedy, pompous and borderline cruel. Yet, this princess, was anything but. She was a dream. He had to shake his head back to reality. Get a grip of yourself, she's a princess, you're a soldier. You have zero chance with the likes of her. She just needs you for some good company and someone to take her into town, that's all.
"Shall we make more use of the day, my knight?" she said, turning. Her eyes were still ashine with fresh tears but she eagerly wiped them away to smile at him.
Link could only nod and with that she lopped her arm through his and they began another stroll down the lanes and streets. As they continued their journey through Castle Town, Link couldn't help but see the princess in a new light. Beneath the royal façade was a kind and generous soul who genuinely cared for her people. It was a side of her he had never expected, and it only made her more endearing in his eyes.
As they exchanged more playful banter, their connection deepened, and Link found himself more and more intrigued by the compassionate princess walking beside him.
Zelda loved the noise of town, it was like music to her. Seeing the interactions between street vendors and denizens roused her intrigue. The children who played and the performers who displayed their talents for all to see. The sun had just crossed the middle of the big blue sky and it was shy of an hour past noon. Her and Helmsworth had discussed much lighthearted words and jokes as they watched those around them and just as they were thinking of heading back to their carriage, a disruptive shriek was heard that sounded out of place from all the other sounds of Silverupee square. Link immediately snapped into action and was suddenly back on the clock as soldier.
Zelda and him turned to face the direction of the commotion coming up from the street ahead of them. Suddenly a young boy with a sack on his back, no older than twelve or eleven Zelda could have guessed was bolting across stalls, knocking over carts and in a hurried run for his life. People tripped in fell in his wake and goods spilled onto the cobblestones. Giving chase closely behind came the shouts of a man, pleading for hel from anyone who would listen.
"Quickly! Somebody, catch that boy! Thief! Thief!" the man shouted. The boy was heading straight for them, his loot flung over his shoulder. Link stepped in front of the princess and took a defensive stance and as soon as the lad crossed his path, he stuck out his leg to give him a sneaky trip not before ensnaring him with his free hand by the collar.
"Hey! What' your problem!?" shouted the kid. "Mind your own business. Let me go! I didn't do nothing," the boy tugged and pulled daring to break free and just as he glanced up to see who had a grip on him so feverishly his tone changed. "Oh, a guard?" he said, noticing Link's royal uniform. "Um, well, you see, I was about to…Look, I—"
Zelda couldn't help but take pity on the scraggly dressed kid. "Helmsworth, it's alright you can release him. He's just a boy." Link shot her a questioned glance but realized she couldn't see his face, so he relented. "Don't even think about trying to run," he commanded the kid. Simultaneously, he dropped the boy to fall but as quick as lightning he snatched away his sack.
With a smile Zelda knelt to help him back up to his feet.
"Thanks, m'lady your guard dog here was just about to…" the boy had to take a pause. From where he fell, he had a clear view of her comely face from the shadow of her hood and by the look of her womanly figure as well, he suddenly felt his heart pound. Whoawee, she sure is pretty, he thought. He had stars in his eyes but quickly realized he needed to stamp them out or be caught for sure.
"Easy there, it's quite alright, don't be frightened," Zelda said, offering her hand. The boy eagerly took a chance to hold it. Such soft hands.
"Pff, I'm not frightened m' Lady." The boy insisted coolly. "I can take care of myself, well enough."
"I bet you can." Zelda said with a chortle. "Tell me, what is your name?"
"It's uh…" the boy tried to think up a lie. "It's—"
The salesman caught up to them, wheezing and out of breath. "-There he is! Thank you, good sir!" He said congratulating Link. "I know I could always count on a man from the guard to serve out the king's justice. This squirmy vermin tried to make off with all my wares! My masks! Without so much a bye or leave. The sneaky bugger! I nearly missed him too!"
"Did not!" the kind defended. "Why, he was trying to plunder me!"
"It's quite alright my good sir." Zelda said, trying to deescalate the situation. "I'm sure there is some sort of arrangement we can come to," she insisted, still disguised. Meanwhile, Link rummaged through the brown sack and sure enough, the man's masks were in there. Twelve of them it would seem by Link's quick count.
"Yeah, there is an arrangement we can come to, I think. Him, paying me my due! That's what! Only that will serve," the Hylian man stomped. He was older, wiry, clearly out of shape and nearly balding.
"Me?" The kid said. "You want me to pay you what you demand? It's highway robbery I tell ya! Charging forty rupees for a rental. It's not like I'll even own them."
Link turned to Zelda and nudged her while the boy was debating the shopkeeper. "Hmm, I say we should turn him in." Link joked.
"Helmsworth! Zelda's eyes widened as she smiled.
"I'm kidding." Link assured. "But, what do you want to do?"
"I have just the idea." Zelda said. Turning back to face the two of them.
The man had just shouted a final word on the matter. "See! You heard it from the little street rats own mouth! He means to rob me out of house and home!"
Zelda coughed beside them and cleared her throat. "I have a better plan!"
The two of them halted their shouting back and forth and both gave her a questioned stare. "You do?" they both said, stunned.
"Yes, seeing is that the matter is money, I think I can loan this young one his fee that is due. This should put an end to the entire debate. Here, just a second." Reaching for her satchel and inside one of the compartments was a small sack purse. Link leaned to see what she was doing and lo and behold when she unfurled its drawstring he nearly had a heart attack and stumbled over himself in utter shock. He couldn't believe his eyes.
Zelda spoke up to the shop keeper. "Would this serve? Or is it more you require?" She said, handing him a solitary gold gem, a rupee. Unbeknownst to her but to the stunned amazement of the three of them, she was prancing about castle town with an entire purse full of nothing but gold and silver rupees. Link was dumbfounded. He's never seen such wealth on a person before. That's more than entire years' worth of work in the royal guard and at least five years of apple crops!
The secret knight was about to faint. This girl is just full of surprises. Does she not know how much she has in her possession? He soon realized that of course she wouldn't. That would make sense from her point of view. When would a princess ever have the use of money? Everything they could ever want would be brought to the castle.
Link whispered in her ear as the man eagerly snatched the gem and nodded his head gleefully. "Tetra, why do you have so many rupees on your person? It's dangerous to expose such wealth here publicly in Scrapbottom."
"Oh, you think it's too much? I'm sorry, I just took a handful from the treasury when I left. I had no idea. I didn't want to go empty handed either. I'm sorry."
"It's alright, but—"
"But I should be fine, right? After all, I have my fierce protector with me."
"Well, yes, but….still," he insisted. "It's quite the sum to be flashing around. And what if I wasn't with you? What then?"
"Then for my sake, I'm glad that you are. But your concerns are duly noted, my knight. I won't make the same mistake twice." she said with a bouncing nod and gleam in her face. Turning to face the lad and haggler she spoke. "So, are we square now?"
"We certainly are m' Lady!" the man nodded and skipped off happy back to his stall whereas the boy remained.
"I—I don't know what to say miss, nobody has done something like that for me. Not ever. Why?"
"Well, what you can say for me is your name. If you tell me yours I will tell you mine. But, you have to keep it a secret. Deal?" She said winking at him. He was shorter than both of her and Link by a good head or so.
"Okay then, I will….My name is uh, Juniper. But my friends call me Jun. Sorry about earlier." He said, hanging his head. Zelda couldn't help herself but feel a tad bit sory for him, he was dressed in rags after all.
"Don't mention it. I'm princess Zelda and this here is my knight for the day, Sir-Helmsworth."
T-the princess! Jun awoke suddenly, but kept his composure calm as the wind. She's the one I'm after? Man, they weren't lying, she is gorgeous! Better play this cool or I'm done for, c'mon Jun, you got this. You can't fail the sensei, no matter how pretty she is. She is the enemy.
"It's quite alright." Zelda explained. "We'll put this whole debacle behind us, so long as you promise me not to steal anymore? Do we have a deal?"
Jun nodded humbly. "Yes, we do."
With the matter settled Link was about to usher the princess to return to the carriage the afternoon was beginning to grow late and he ha dto have her back in time for the preliminary festivities.
Not wanting to let his chance slip by, Jun spoke up."But, before you go?Your Higness, Will I see you again?"
Zelda spun to face him, her face aglow. "Hm, let me think on that. Why, yes, of course you will. In fact, tonight if you like. At the celebration. Will you and your family be there?"
The boy rubbed his arm solemnly, recollecting on a painful memory. "I uh, I uh…I have no family."
Zelda's eyes saddened. "Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn't know….you know what, in that case. You can join me and Sir-Helmsworth. I'm sure he wouldn't mind. Right?" she said, playfully prodding Link's arm. He wanted to shake his head no but relented with a nod instead. How could he ever refuse those eyes?
"Then it's settled. Sir-Helmsworth will fetch for you once I'm back at the castle. I have to prepare now. And he must get ready for—well, never mind that. He will return and find you. Would you like that?"
"I sure would," he said. She has no idea.
"Well, then you're going to have to meet him at union bridge and he will bring you along to the starting pavilion for today's festival of the flame. I'll be sure to also pack some fresh linens for you to change into. I promise you won't regret it and you can even bring your masks! How does that sound? I know others will be celebrating with them as well. So, you'll fit right in."
"Sounds…great! Okay, I'm in, thanks your highness!" the kid waved goodbye and scurried off down the row of shops and before they knew it, he was lost in the crowd.
"You think he will show up?" Link asked as they stood side by side, watching.
"Hmm, I don't know. But, it was worth a try. He just needs some guidance, that's all." She said before giving a sweet look of him up and down, implying there's a role model in him. "Well," she sighed. "I say that's enough excitement for one day, what do you think? Come, we should head back. It's nearly one past the turn of day."
Link nodded and with that, they boarded their carriage and made haste back to the castle.
They were nearly through the main gates of the castle and about to enter the bailey when she spoke to him. "It was very generous of you willing to come back for him, Sir-Helmsworth."
She took him by the hand and gave it a squeeze. Link's body jolted with electricity. "That said, my only wish that today could have been any better was if I knew the real you. But, before you say anything, I know that a deal is a deal. You can keep your secret. But, even still I wanted you to know that I had a wonderful time with you. I never have seen my city in such a way as I did today."
"Zelda I—" Link was on the verge of confessing who he was when she changed the subject. It must have been the approach of the castle and the coming duty destined for them both.
"Are you worried about the coming trial this evenfall? And the ones to follow the next couple of days?"
Link was taken aback by the abrupt change in conversation but remained quiet as she continued. "They say the top contender is rather strong. I hear he has even bested men twenty years his senior on the practice fields. If the rumors are to be believed."
Link wasn't sure who she was referring to but had a hunch. There was only one cadet that had that much promise. He gulped at what she would say next. "But, they also mentioned he is quite the showboat, swinging his sword first headlong before using any wits."
Zelda sighed. "I confess I did think he was quite comely when I first laid eyes on him. He had a way about him that was charming. Even from afar…. Sort of…like you…but different. A brash confidence I think it was. Not to mention, a silly smile when realized he messed up." Link listened intently, he knew now who she was talking about. He continued to drive them up over the bridges and through the gatehouses.
"He was training I believe," she continued. "And would you guess, he even stole a laugh from me! The first I have had honestly in days. The face he made when he plopped in that bucket of zapping eels was priceless…."
Her face suddenly saddened as if a wind-swept chill blew away her happy disposition. "But, as often does, dreams are just that, dreams…. That was before the tales about him reached my ears. Link is his name. That's what it was, I remember now, Link! They say he has a girl in every district swooning over him and each night he lays lies in their ears with empty promises from that candy-coated tongue of his."
Link couldn't believe what he was hearing. If only she knew they were one and the same. But what's worst, who was spreading such vile lies about him? And why? Who could spin such deceitful silk that could lead up to the castle itself. Only one name came to mind and he had half a mind to set him straight when they met again.
Zelda spoke on. "Once I heard, the type of boy he was, I realized I could never have eyes for someone such as that. If not only for his way with his fellow trainees and being the cocky cucco that he is, but with his regard to ladies, or lack thereof. That was enough for me…." Zelda let out a breath wistfully. "Not that it matters, though. I'm to be promised to some lord someday anyway. It was only just a dream…"
Realizing she may have hurt Harmsworth's feelings, by his sudden silence and cold drive in the carriage, she perked up beside him, hoping to clarify. "But, he's nothing like you. And I don't care what the yarn spinners say, I know you can beat him Sir-Helmsworth. If the time came for a finishing duel. You may not be as strong as he is, but you have it where it counts most. You have heart and are gentle when need be and braver than most. When the bells toll at tonight's twilight, know I'll be rooting for you to be my victor during the trials. My….secret knight," she finished softly.
Link turned to face her over his shoulder. It was like a wall of bricks fell on him. On one hand she favored him and on the other, loathed his name, even though they were lies. Still, would she even believe him if he came clean now? Now he couldn't tell her who he was, so instead he decided to nod and thank her. Before they knew it, they were at the castle steps, it was time for her to go, and with a final squeeze of his hand she left him with a smile that he had grown so fond of.
Little did they know, today would shape their destiny forever.
Authors Notes: I hope you enjoyed this tidbit. The climax of this arc is just around the corner. Please if you could, leave a comment, it helps me greatly.