Chapter
Why We Failed pt. 16
A Feast to Remember
Finding Shywind was easy enough, and fortunately for Jun, the stablemaster had already treated her to a plethora of tasty delights fitting for a horse—sweet oats, hay, and apples besides. Jun initially worried she wouldn't want to leave her newfound oasis. However, she was a good girl and graciously let the young squire saddle her. He untied her from the post and waved goodbye to the friendly caregiver, tossing a single blue gem for his troubles as he clopped off down the muddy road that led back through the main wall, past the fortified moat, and to the castle. "Just a little longer, Sir. Hang on," he whispered.
Back at the castle gate, Jun encountered a hindrance. Two sentries, disgruntled by not being invited to the festivities at the Queen's Meadow and left to scavenge stale rations instead of enjoying a night's feast, were quite in the mood to delay the lad. "Who goes there? And at this hour?" the slender guard called out from atop the gatehouse that led into the bailey, elbowing his shorter and broader compatriot to have a look.
After all, there was no way in except by their good graces, which meant lowering the drawbridge—a task that took about five minutes, five minutes Jun didn't have. The boy grew impatient, his lack of manners and courtesy getting the better of him. "The name is Jun, and my business is my own. A friend of mine is being cared for here from the tournament. This evening's champion. And you better open up if you know what's good for you. Or the princess will find out!"
"Come into the light!" the man hollered again. Now lit up by the torches which guarded the edge of the bridge, the man only had to take one gander at the boy to make up his mind. There the lad was, saddled atop his plain chestnut mare without even a vestige of a caparison that a lower-class warrior might own. "You? A skinny, raggedy kid knows the Princess? Yeah, and I'm the King. Go home to your mum, kid. The night grows late for stories. Go play pretend someplace else, we're busy. The castle isn't open to the likes of you."
The plump man chided as well. "Yeah, you heard him. Run along home before you find yourself in trouble."
Jun growled to himself quietly, getting even more frustrated. He couldn't believe the princess would invite him to care for his Sir if he wouldn't be granted passage to do so. Something wasn't adding up. "I'm telling you; the princess asked me to be here. By her express command, and since you're not letting me in, that means you're going to be the ones in trouble, not me."
The squire had the right of it, though; she did ask the guards to watch out for a boy coming atop a humble steed. The snag, however, was that another set of guards had already swapped shifts for the night. They didn't relay her request to the new sentries thanks to all the commotion and excitement of the Princess' court returning to the castle abruptly, rushing a dying man down to the infirmary ward. Others injured from the day's lists were also brought in.
The two regular guards exchanged glances, then looked back down at the stubborn lad atop his mare, now unwavering in his stance at the entrance of the bridge. "If you really know the princess, then prove it! And no tricks now!"
"I haven't got any proof on me, stupid! If I did, I would have shown it by now."
"Look, I'm growing tired of your—"
"I'm tired of you!" Jun hollered back. The guard stiffened, about to rebuke him.
"Fine, have it your way," Jun said, shaking his head and pulling the steed around. He knew he'd have no such luck here. He whispered to himself conspiratorially, "I'll find another way in. Their castles don't worry me. I've gotten into strongholds much more protected than this. Such a shame I'll have to leave you behind though, m'lady," he said, running his fingers through Shywind's mane. The horse snorted dismissively.
"Hey, it'll be alright. I'll come right back once I find a way in for you girl, I promise." The horse neighed; this time happy to hear his change of tune.
"But first, I have to find a way in for me. Once I do, I'll find the princess and she'll set things right. And get back at those good for nothing jerks who wouldn't let us pass."
Jun nudged Shywind onward, guiding her away from the gatehouse and into the shadows cast by the castle walls. As he departed, the two guards were having a laugh with one another—one stood leaning against the crenellations while the other sat on a stool, enjoying a flagon of cheaply watered-down red. They both watched the flicker of a brazier, their only shield from the chill wind that night. But their peace would be short-lived, for another visitor came to disturb their quiet evening.
"Hey, someone's coming, stop that laughing," the thin guard remarked to his portly companion, who was enjoying himself a bit too much. He turned to have a look over the battlements, but the night was dark and the clouds hid the glowing, watchful face of the moon.
"What now?" the stout guard grumbled, listening to the sounds of hooves on cobblestones coming closer. This time, the commotion was coming from within the bailey itself, from the inner castle it would seem.
"Sounds like a lot of somebody," the sentry realized, snapping the visor of his half-helm shut. "Quick, on your feet before someone sees us lounging about!" he barked to his friend, who was astonishingly slow to rise.
"Who goes there!" the first guard shouted below, this time to what appeared to be a mass of around twenty soldiers, half of which were Dragoons and the others Royals. They were escorting several women, one of whom appeared to be the Princess of the Zora herself, along with a frighteningly tall and beautiful Gerudo woman. The procession halted as they reached the gatehouse.
Rushing to the front to see what the hold-up was, the young Lord of the Stonelands followed by one of his lieutenants galloped on horseback. The commanding Dragoon spoke on their behalf to the two guards at the gatehouse. "If I have to hear you say, 'who goes there' one more time, I'm going to knock you off this wall with my crossbow. Haven't you recognized me by now!? I've been coming through every day now, at all hours, for a week."
Both sentries gulped. "M-my Lord of Draene, forgive us. The night grows dark, and we didn't know you were coming."
"And why should that matter?" barked the lieutenant again.
"Because it is our duty, Sir, m'lord, I mean," the man corrected, stammering like a fool. "T—to stand fast against any who would dare to penetrate these walls. And to track the comings and goings of all those who pass."
"The only thing that's going to penetrate tonight will be my sword through your thick skull if you don't hurry."
Arasmus rolled his eyes, listening to his commanding Dragoon take the lead. The two guards froze atop the gatehouse as if they were face-to-face with a Lynel. A Lynel would have been preferable, to be honest.
The Dragoon roared at them again. "In case you haven't noticed, we're already in the castle, you half-wits! Now let us out so we can be on our way!" The Dragoon's patience wore thin, like the last scrape of butter on bread. Some of the court ladies being escorted couldn't help but giggle at the guards' silliness when faced with authority. "Now, drop the bloody bridge before my liege here has the princess confine you both to a year's service of solitude on Snowpeak Mountain. And be snappy about it! My lord and his guests are expected by the King himself."
"Y-y-yes, Sir, I mean, M'lord! Right away, M'lord!" they said, fumbling about themselves trying to remember their courtesies all the while hastening to raise the gate and lower the bridge. During the whole ordeal, as the squealing reels spun, loosening the chains to drop the bridge, Mipha lowered her hood and meekly spoke up to the two guards who were frantically following orders.
"Beg your pardon, but has a young squire passed through here yet?" Mipha asked, but heard no reply. The guards were in a frenzy of hurrying before any more punishments could be levied at them. Furthermore, Mipha had such a sweet, low voice that could easily get lost in the chaotic hums, creaks, and rumblings of lowering a drawbridge and raising a portcullis. Those beside her could barely hear her too.
"Beg your pardon," she tried again to no avail. It was then Arasmus saw her feeble attempts and cued his subordinate to announce on her behalf.
"Are you in the habit of not listening!?" roared the Dragoon again at the two men. Instantly, they froze in place.
"S—sir?"
"A Princess is here is trying to have a word with you, and you're being extremely rude by ignoring her," the Dragoon growled, his eyes narrowing with irritation.
The fatter man blurted out before his companion could reconcile, "But that's not the princess, that's just some Zora woman—"
"—It's the Zora princess, you imbecile," the Dragoon cut him off sharply.
"F—forgive me, forgive us," the guard stammered, shocked and regretting the words that had flown from his lips. He collapsed to his knees and disappeared from view.
"How is she to speak to you if she can't see you?" hollered the Dragoon, his patience at its wits end.
Realizing his friend was indeed slow to understand, the thinner guard kicked him to rise. His head popped up into Mipha's view like a gopher from its hole, just between the gap of the crenelation. "M—my lady, I mean, Your Highness," he stuttered, his voice trembling.
Mipha couldn't help but smile gently. "What I wanted to ask you before this fine sir took it into his hands to get your attention was whether a young squire perchance tried to come through this way. The princess is expecting him. It is her Champion's squire from today's tourneys, and it is quite worrisome that he hasn't arrived yet. So, I ask you, good men of the watch, have you seen such a fine lad?"
The two guards paused for a moment and whispered in each other's ears. "No way could she be talking about that skinny runt from earlier, right?" one of them muttered.
"Yeah, he was no squire," the shorter one concurred, sure of himself. "He didn't even have a tabard. And if he were a true squire to some knight, he'd at least have a sigil to bear of his master."
The tall and slender soldier cleared his throat and, proud as ever, declared, "No, M'lady, there has been no such dignified squire come through here that matches that description, only a scrawny lad who wasn't even riding a stallion."
Mipha blinked, unsure if she heard him right.
"But don't you worry, we sent him away. Did so me-self. There will be no beggars of the castle tonight, not under our watch, ain't that right, Burt?" the man finished proudly, nudging his companion to nod in agreement, which he did.
"That's right, Urn, we stand guard, ever faithful during our watches! Sent him away, we did."
Mipha spoke again, her voice gentle and uncertain. "Oh, that sounds just like him, actually. Skinny, about this tall?" she said, using her hands to indicate his height. "Are you certain that wasn't him?"
"Yes, and he was just like T—" the man started to repeat aloud but lowered his voice to a whisper just short of realizing. "—That, and we sent him away," he muttered, his grin fading to a nervous frown under his helm. "Oh my," he gulped.
His partner panicked before he could spill the beans and yanked on his ear to whisper in it. "Goddesses be good, that was the Princess's squire. We need to find him and bring him at once before she finds out it was us that denied him."
Mipha squinted, trying to hear better in the darkness but a sudden rumble of clouds off in the yonder muddied their words. "Say again? I think I lost what you said in the distant thunderclap there."
"Well, what do I tell the Zora Princess?" Burt asked, desperate for an answer.
"Just say, we haven't seen him. When they leave, we go and find him, yeah?"
"Yeah, alright then," he whispered back before turning to face Mipha, who was waiting eagerly below. "I'm sorry, Princess of the Zora, but we haven't seen any squire, but as soon as we do, we will make sure he treats with the Princess straight away."
"Oh, alright," Mipha said softly to herself, shrugging to the others. And with that, Arasmus took charge again of the procession and led them back out from the castle to the pavilions on the Queen's Meadow. Without a moment to lose, both guards bolted down the steps and out from the secret door which exited the castle wall into the nobility district, to hunt for the mystery long-lost squire.
Inside the confines of the castle, the princess trailed by two guardsmen followed a torchbearer down stone steps which led deep into the belly of the dungeon lair. There at the long end of a wide corridor lined with cells was a large doorway to a chamber.
"This way, Your Grace," croaked a hunch-backed old woman in worn robes. "Your champion has been laid to rest here."
"Thank you, Bethelda. You do your kingdom a great service," Zelda offered with a grateful smile.
"Our aim is always to please." Bethelda placed the bright torch into an iron sconce with a loud clank and shuffled away. "I'll leave you to your matters now."
The guardsmen halted, awaiting further orders.
"Wait here for me, I shan't be long. I just want to make sure he will be alright," Zelda said, turning back to them before heading through the threshold.
Inside the chamber, which looked like an old cellar likely used for interrogation in the old days, now served as an infirmary ward. It was stacked wall to wall with shelves carrying ancient remedies, potions, ointments, and fascinating medical contraptions. Not to mention several tables used for surgical procedures.
"Ah, there you are, Princess, just in time too," breathed the old cleric from the arena. Two assistants fussed about, discarding soiled bandages and a washbasin filled with bloody water. Zelda's spine tingled at the sight; she'd never seen such blood before. It was a massacre.
"All is well now," the cleric smiled. "You can rest easy; he will survive. He just needs some rest."
Zelda blinked, shocked by the news, expecting to hear the worst. From what she saw, she was sure he was a goner. She shook off the worry, breathed a sigh of relief, and faced the old man while he wiped his dirty hands on his apron.
"Has the boy come while I was upstairs dealing with trivial matters?" she inquired.
"You mean that squire? Not that I have seen, but should I keep an eye out for him?"
"See that you do. I mustn't stay long. I'm expected back with my father and the rest of the court at the feast. They won't be able to begin unless I'm there—but oh, oh Helmsworth, do recover soon," she said, turning to face the young warrior lying motionless on the table. Then suddenly as she watched him for a silent moment, curiosity got the best of her, and just as she was about to take a quick gander under his helm, a voice hollered across the room.
"—Sorry, I'm late!" Jun burst in through the door, startling Zelda so much she spun around faster than an Octorok on an ocean wave, her flowing blonde hair whipping the air.
"Hey, no peeking! I promised him that no one should remove his helm," Jun said proudly, almost wagging his finger.
Zelda blushed but swiftly composed herself. "I was doing no such thing. I was merely loosening his strap so he could rest more comfortably, that's all."
Zelda then realized something, and her eyes widened. She glanced quizzically at Jun, then at the entryway, and back to the squire again. "Jun, how did you? Where did you?—"
"—Oh, I was delayed by a pair of dumb guards, but don't worry, I got in. It's no big deal. I also managed to get Shywind onto the grounds too. Not hard at all," Jun said nonchalantly.
"Wait, what? You got in? Dumb guards?" Zelda fumbled the words, hardly believing what she was hearing.
"Seems your friend here, Princess, is quite capable. Good thing he's a squire and on our side!" the cleric jested.
Jun interrupted, seeing Helmsworth. "Am I too late? Will he be alright?" Questions tumbled out from the boy before he frowned and turned to the cleric with demands. "What magic did you cast on him? I swear, if you made him more sick, I'll—"
"—Magic?" the old man chortled. "Come lad, I would never. I merely dressed his wounds and applied some healing ointments crafted by the Zora of Polymous Mountain. It is quite potent stuff. However, he will need a potion when he wakes though."
"What he needs is Yi—I mean Sheikah medicine," Jun insisted.
Zelda's brows lifted. "Jun, what do you know about Sheikah medicine?"
"I dunno…" the boy replied coyly. "But I heard their magical ways are far better than silly Zora, that's for sure."
Zelda chuckled softly. "But Jun, the Sheikah haven't practiced magic in many centuries, if not longer."
"Well, all I'm saying is that my Sir needs to be ready to compete tomorrow in the final trial of the flame, and I along with him to help," the boy said, crossing his arms.
Zelda's eyes glistened with the flicker of candlelight as she saw the determination in the boy's face. She leaned in to meet him. "I'm sure Helmsworth is honored to have you as his squire. In fact, I just know he'd want you well rewarded for your services today. How about you come back to my pavilion this eve and share in the festivities and feast. I promise you'd enjoy it. We have all manner of entertainment, and I'm sure you could do well with a hot meal in your belly. You can also stay in my quarters with my ladies in waiting as my honored guest on Helmsworth's behalf."
"But what of Helmsworth? What if he wakes?" Jun asked, clearly torn.
"Unlikely, lad," the cleric interjected. "The princess is right; what your master needs now is undisturbed rest. But don't you worry, my liege, I will have him good as new on the morrow."
The princess nodded thankfully at the old man before facing Jun again.
Jun stewed on the idea for half a heartbeat but shook his head stubbornly like a child. "I'm sorry, Your Highness, but I mustn't leave my Sir. My place is here. At least, until he wakes."
Zelda was taken aback by his response but also moved by his devotion. With a smile as warm as the hearth nearby, she relented happily. "Very well, then if you must, you can stay here as long as you like. Tell Helmsworth if he wakes that he is welcome to join us as well if he can manage it. And with that, I leave you to your master."
Zelda stepped closer to Helmsworth one last time as he lay still. With a squeeze of his warm hand, she said her silent farewell before leaving the infirmary.
The princess had to return to her quarters high in the tower before heading back to the pavilions. The entire ordeal took an additional fifteen minutes, during which Jun had just left the dungeons after speaking to an awakened Helmsworth who had fallen back asleep.
Back on the wall, the two sentries had given up their search. "I swear, Urn, we looked everywhere. No such luck. If that was the squire, he's long gone by now."
Out of breath from their exhaustive search, the fatter one concurred. "I know, Burt, wish we'd been told he was coming… would have saved us the trouble."
Hooves clopped on the pathway again leading from the bailey, drawing nearer. Burt stiffened. "Somebody's coming."
Urn whined, hopping from his stool. "What now?"
It didn't take long for them to see. Escorted by three Royal Guardsmen was the princess herself. "This is it, we're done for. I just know it. See what you've gotten me into," Burt whispered to his friend, his heart leaping into his throat. "She's come to punish us herself."
The princess's borrowed stallion halted before the gate, and she sweetly lowered her hood to call upon them. "Good evening, good men of the watch. Could we trouble you to lower the bridge?"
"Forgive—wait, lower the bridge?" Burt blurted before correcting himself.
Urn nudged him and hastened to the wheel and contraptions. "Of course, Your Highness, right away!"
Wasting no time, the portcullis raised, and the bridge lowered, allowing the princess passage. Before returning her cloak to shield herself from the chill, she granted them her thanks. "Many blessings and peace be unto you!" And with that, she disappeared into the night.
Burt gave a gasp of relief, sliding down a wall he was leaning on. The princess made no mention of their mishap, much to their fortune. However, his friend was still watching from the ramparts into the distance. Before he could reset the bridge, he saw another figure approaching from the inner castle—a skinny boy… riding a chestnut mare. "Great goddesses, it can't be!" he slapped his partner to hop to attention.
"B—but, how? How did he?"
Without so much as a word, Jun strolled through the lowered bridge as if he owned the place, giving them a salute of his cap before vanishing into the shadows beyond the bridge.
"Impossible." Urn gulped. Burt had had enough, fainted, and collapsed into his friend's arms, leaving his partner to pick up the pieces. "Burt, get up! Get up!"
The first thing that grabbed Jun's attention was the smell—a rich, tantalizing blend of roasting meats and sweet pastries. Then came the alluring music and glittering performances of mummers, weaving their magic and dances between tents and stalls. While the commons remained outside the fences erected to separate the nobility, they too reveled in the evening's wonders from their gathering spaces.
The princess decreed that no one should go without, ensuring there was plenty for all in the coming days. The crown provided everything they needed, and though the common folk dined on wild boar rather than suckling pig, or coal-charred squab over plump peacock roasted in its plumage, their bellies would be satisfied, nonetheless. Even their simpler fare was a rare treat tonight.
The night air carried the delectable aromas of desserts baking in a nearby kiln, wafting through and tickling Jun's nostrils. He could almost taste the tantalizing sweetness of strawberries, cherries, and caramelized figs. His mouth watered, and he had to discreetly wipe the drool from his chin before anyone of importance noticed. Initially unsure about attending such a grand event, his growling stomach soon made the decision for him, transforming him into a squire on a mission—to eat.
He made his way towards the Royal Rotunda, a massive tent so grand it could easily hide a small castle beneath its canvas. Gallant and pristine banners snapped in the wind, heralding his approach. Even on a night this dark their majesty was a sight to behold. Nestled near a babbling stream offering fresh Zora water, and adjacent to other high-status tents, the Rotunda was a absolute spectacle.
Jun watched, mesmerized, as kitchen lads basted and twirled pigs on spits, the buttery crackle of their crispy skin as they popped when the exotic herbs and juices drizzled over them was music to his ears. Fishermen delivered their catch to the cooks, who turned them into baked delicacies encased in salt, while pretty serving maids rolled small barrels of the finest ales and wines just begging to be drunk. The night was a dazzling array of splendor, the likes of which his young imagination could only see told from the dreams of others.
A guardsman recognized Jun and offered him passage through the picket fences, obliging him to tie his horse nearby.
His belly growled louder, reminding him just how long it had been since he had a proper meal, let alone a steaming hot one. The anticipation built with every step he took towards the grand tent, his senses overwhelmed by the sights and sounds.
Once through the flap, he was greeted by smiles, double takes of those whispering in ears and even some inquisitive chin rubbing from high borne men and ladies. Jun made his way to the Royal table which sat at least twenty people on a raised dais, though he didn't count to make sure. Sheepishly the boy was unsure where to go as the Guardsman who led him into the tent was of little help. Luckily, his small shape caught the princess's eye, much to her delight.
Gleefully, she raised her hand and waved him over. "Jun, you made it! Right this way. I saved you a place," she said, her eyes shining with excitement. Jun tiptoed over as graciously as he could, trying to remember his manners.
"And who is this young lad? Your new cupbearer, My Dear Princess?" remarked a pompous, plump, middle-aged lady with tacky brunette hair, who notably needed a pillow on her chair to be eye level with everyone else.
Her comment caught Zelda's attention, but she remained polite. "Oh, he is no cupbearer. On the contrary, he is my most honored guest this evening, aside from Kafei and Ajuel—who strangely have not arrived yet." As she prepped the boy's seat beside her own, she glanced over the feast, searching for the star-crossed lovers.
"Not a cupbearer, you say?" the old lady inquired, pressing the matter further. "Then where is the boy from, and whose house does he hail from?" she asked, lifting a monocle to her eye to search the pavilion.
"Oh, he is of no house of great esteem, nor comes from a long lineage which, no doubt, you can name and list throughout the centuries until we all died of boredom, but—" Zelda deflected, leaning close to whisper to Jun, "Not that it matters, of course," before returning to face the prissy woman. "He has something much more to offer. He is a squire to one of the finest, soon-to-be knight of the realm."
"Indeed, I'm sure," the lady said lifting up her nose, sizing up Jun like an insect that needed to be squashed.
Jun sat swiftly to avoid more expectant and curious gazes. Though most were persnickety, some were welcoming, notably, the princess' friends. It was in that moment, an attendant walking by in a hurry brought a dispatch for the Princess' eyes only. The boy curiously watched as her emerald gaze wandered over the parchment from side to side. With a sigh she handed back the paper to the bearer.
"What is it?" asked Urbosa, seeing the dour look on the princess's face.
Zelda shook her head. "I guess Kafei and Lady Anjuel won't be dining with us. It appears she has fallen ill of the belly and is hoping to make their debut tomorrow or the day after. Her betrothed offers me their apologies. I do hope she gets well."
Purah chimed. "That's the girl from earlier, right? The short-haired one?"
Zelda only nodded, stewing still.
"Well, don't let it dampen your night, I'm sure she will be alright. And besides, what better day and luck to have a wedding than on your Ascension Day."
"Yeah," Zelda replied, before shaking her head of the worry only to find the lad's expectant gaze watching her. She put on a smile for him.
Luckily, the first course arrived, redirecting the conversation anyway. The guests eagerly anticipated the noble delicacy. Purah clapped excitedly when one of the cooks ordered the servants to unveil the platter. It was one of her favorites—a light dish but tasty just the same. Sautéed Swift Carrots drizzled with a dash of spicy peppered honey next to a bed of sweetgrass piled high with an assortment of fresh fruits. Just the thing to open up the palate for what was to come.
Jun, indifferent to the dish and preferring heartier meals, found his attention caught by something else other than food. The girl sitting two chairs away from the princess, this Purah lady. She had white hair like his and red irises also. Glancing beside her, he saw two others with similar features. They looked like him too—at least when he wasn't disguised with brown dye and eye-altering magical tonic.
Were these Sheikah? He had never met one like himself who betrayed their people before. Or were these another group sent by the Sensei to infiltrate? No, that couldn't be. These three were open about their heritage and seemed proud of it. They were also close to the Princess. They must be Sheikah, and if that were so, then he hated them even more.
"Is something the matter, Jun?" Zelda asked, cheerful as ever. She waved her hand over his blank stare to regain his focus.
Jun blinked; a pout stuck on his face. "I, uh, huh? Yeah, I am... Sorry."
"It's just that you haven't touched your plate, and you've been staring at Purah for a minute now, quite upset. Is something bothering you?"
"P—Purah?" Jun's belly pitted, and he quickly shook his head, a fib teetering on the edge of his lips. He needed to keep it together. "Oh, no, I'm fine! See!" He quickly shoveled a big helping of grassy herbs, some pine nuts, strawberries, and what seemed to be part of the plate, the trencher itself, into his mouth.
Zelda giggled. "It's quite alright, no need to rush. I just wanted to make sure you're enjoying yourself, that's all. And Jun?"
"Yes, Princess?" the boy mumbled with his mouth full.
"We don't typically eat our trenchers." She said, though it wouldn't be the last time.
Jun gulped dramatically. "A trencher?"
Mipha, overhearing, added, "Yes, the barley bread that makes up the plate."
Zelda half-hugged Jun. "It's alright, you didn't know better. Here, I'll help you out as the rounds of dishes come, okay?"
Arasmus, also listening, chimed in. "Well, if I didn't know better, I'd say it's high time for a real meal. No more of this exotic bunny food," he said, raising a goblet, which some others happily mirrored with gulps from their own. "Where can a man find some meat?"
Purah glared, but Impa implored her to hold her temper. Zelda came to their defense as sweetly as she could muster, "Well, I for one delight in the foreign cuisines of other cultures aside from our own. We can learn a lot from them."
"Yeah, learn how to starve, you mean," Arasmus said, eliciting laughter from other Hylian nobility. "My Sweet Sundelion has the most trusting and willing heart among us, ain't that right, Lord High Priest? I mean, you would know best."
Catching the Priest off guard, minding his own business, slurping in the corner, the overdressed man nearly shot soup from his bent beak of a nose. "One could only wish…" the Priest mumbled to himself, a few drips staining his expensive gold and satin doublet.
Arasmus had a gift for reading a room and could decipher exactly what the skirt chaser was thinking. I bet you would, wouldn't you, he thought. "Speaking of, where have you been, My Lord Galivan? We missed you at court—well, some of us at least," he said to the guffaws of others. He continued, "We missed you at the tourney, the escapade with the Princess' champion—You know, a Goddess blessing might have come in handy earlier. Hell, we missed you all day."
"Yeah, I should like to know as well," added Zelda, setting her shiny fork down. "I would imagine the Grand High Priest would want to be here. I mean, what if I gave my ascension declaration earlier and you were nowhere to be found? You wield the scepter, after all."
Galivan's eyes narrowed, but he managed to put on a cheerful face for those listening. "As talented a princess as you are, I'm sure all would have been well. And besides, I was around, just... preoccupied with other duties. Forgive my tardiness, Your Highness. I am at your service now," he said, finishing with a tilt of the head across the table.
Jun glanced up and watched the whole exchange, but before someone else could interject, a short herald made an announcement at the end of the pavilion. "All rise for His Majesty, King Rhoam Bosphoramus Hyrule, Guardian of the Sacred Golden Power and Protector of all the Realm of Hyrule! Joining him to his right is High Chancellor and Lord Paramount of the Stonelands, Defender of the Eastern Gate, Danarus of the House Draene! All Hail!"
Everyone shuffled to their feet, even the Princess, out of fealty to her father. Jun quickly followed suit.
The king and his right hand marched over the long span of red carpet that led to his high seat on the dais. To Jun, it felt like an eternity for him to climb up the steps and find his seat. C'mon, I'm starving, the lad thought. Once settled in, everyone else sat after they bowed their heads, and with a clap and a chortle of excitement from the King, the feast resumed.
Facing his daughter, the King spoke. "Have we missed much? We had some short business to attend to, and it delayed us."
"Well, we just finished the first course," she said. "So, you missed that."
"Then we're right on time," the king smiled, wiggling in his seat, preparing himself for what was next like an overgrown child would. "I always dislike the first course. Too many leaves on my plate for my taste."
Zelda giggled. "Well, that's because it's a salad, father. It's supposed to have leaves."
"I very much agree, Your Highness," Arasmus concurred, gaining support from the king with a head nod. And as if on cue, the next round of courses came.
"Well, luckily for you, my brother, it seems the Goddess has answered your prayers," added Arcturus, the late Queen's brother.
The pavilion buzzed with an air of anticipation as servants glided through the space, balancing silver trays laden with culinary masterpieces. The scents of roasted meats, fragrant herbs, and exotic spices intertwined in a mouthwatering symphony. Candles flickered in ornate holders, casting a warm, golden glow that danced across the rich tapestries and banners that adorned the walls of the tent. All the while, bards narrated the splendor with their merry-making melodies.
Zelda leaned into Jun to whisper, "Shame that Helmsworth couldn't make it. I know he would just love to try the delicacies the castle cooks have to offer," she said with a wistful sigh.
I'm already way ahead of you, Princess, Jun noted to himself, stuffing both pockets with sweet rolls, figs, and hard cheese that smelled like his comrades after a week of no bathing. Link would enjoy these morsels when he came to, and the lad thought it well to save him all the treats he could scavenge from the party.
"But he'll just have to dine in on your tales of it until he joins us for the next feast," Zelda said, before her attention went to the serving maids and attendants ushering more platters. "Ah, here they are. I sure hope you have an appetite."
This time it was char-roasted stuffed peacock, its golden skin crackling and dripping with succulent juices, stewed sausages in a rich, aromatic broth perfected by the Rito, and succulent potato mash smoothened by a blend of garlic, butter, and cream—an exquisite dish in its own right, honed by the Sheikah. The princess, however, always opted for an assortment of vegetables to accompany her dishes but always enjoyed a nice, juicy slab of meat when prepared so wonderfully.
Jun could barely contain his hunger but managed to remember what manners he did have, though they were few and far between. Fortunately, Zelda helped him navigate the feast with grace, using proper etiquette. The night carried on like that for some time, with laughter, talks of the earlier games, Zelda and her friends sparring her words with Nobility, and all the while the courses came and went. The king even called forth the entertainers: the Gorman Traveling Troupe of Hyrule.
First came the fire dancers, their batons aflame, twirling and spinning to the dazzling awe of those feasting. They mixed strange concoctions and powders into the flames, causing bursts of color—fiery reds, emerald greens, and shimmering violets—that lit up the night. Jugglers and mummers joined the fun, tumbling and whirling their acrobatics in a mesmerizing display. Even a fool dressed in motley made mock of the patrons, bravely impersonating the high table, much to their guffaws and pearl-clutching when it was their turn.
Urbosa snorted wine from her nose at the impression the fool made of the Grand Herald, though he was anything but impressed. Zelda's favorite moment of all came when the little jester cartwheeled over to where Arasmus sat, much to his annoyance and her delight. Zelda relished every second of it.
The lord was conversing in what could only be, in his mind, high conversation with one of the other party guests, only to have the fool stand behind him and mimic his every mannerism. When his frustration reached a fever pitch and the jester performed a magic trick, pretending to be the high-born lord, everyone clapped. A white bunny appeared from under a platter lid of Arasmus' next dish, startling him into spilling his drink; just to hop into the arms of the jester, then back onto the plate. The fool proudly bowed to the claps of the princess and her friends.
The prince added to Zelda's amusement with a jest, "Hey! Wouldn't you know—a rabbit for your rabbit food, eh, my Lord? After all, I'm sure you wouldn't mind, didn't you say you're not fond of those kinds of delights?" he said, watching as the bunny paraded around his part of the table, nibbling on what was left of the swift carrots on the bed of greens. "At least, someone is enjoying themselves," he poked fun with a hearty chuckle. This time even the king couldn't resist but bellow a laugh at the absurdity of it.
In the roar of applause, it took everything Aramsus had to feign being impressed by the trick. With a smile as others watched, he jerked the performer by the collar and whispered where only he could hear, "Do anything like that again, and I'll shove that rabbit down your throat." The fool made off with a skip and hop after that, clearly aware of the threat posed.
The night carried on like that for some time, laughs and merrymaking. Now it was time for dessert, Zelda's favorite part of the feast. Each night for the next three days, a certain theme would be given for the final delight of the evening. Tonight's theme was courage, and so the brilliant cooks brought forth a massive, towering cake, multilayered, resembling a steep climb to the top of a high tower once told of in legend, that of Hera and the bravery one must have to complete the task before the dawn rises or face being lost forever in a void.
Each layer was decorated with a different flavor and ornate design: the bottom was vanilla with pillowy puffs of cream, the center strawberry with tarts, and the top dusted and glazed in rare Zonaian cocoa. Zelda's absolute favorite—a treat even for someone of her high station.
"You're going to love this," Zelda whispered to Jun, only to find, to her happy shock and surprise, the boy had already begun eating ahead of her. "Oh, my, I spoke too soon!"
Urbosa chuckled. "Poor lad, must have been starving."
"I know, right?" Zelda agreed, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Though nobody asked for her opinion, the pompous lady from before made her thoughts known. "Well, I think it is unbecoming of an 'esteemed squire' as you say to behave so rudely in front of the princess. Honestly, stuffing his face like that, tsk, tsk."
Zelda blinked, incredulous at the brazenness of the woman's remark. She turned to the lady, noting her unavoidable rotund figure. *Really? And you say he has a problem stuffing his face?* she thought but kept her gentle nature intact. Instead, she said, "Well, he's going to have to eat if he is going to grow up strong like his master, Helmsworth," offering Jun a reassuring smile. The boy had slunk in his chair from embarrassment.
Zelda continued proudly. "He won the tournament today. And this lad helped him, so I say he deserves a reward. And what better reward for a boy than a belly full of treats?"
"Well said, my dear," added Prince Arcturus. "Well said."
The lady was left speechless, unable to rebuttal as she had expected a debate. Zelda's kind eyes met her condescending glares, and the lady removed herself from their presence to another table, her haughty demeanor crumbling.
Zelda's uncle, making his way over to conspire with the King, whispered in her ear first. "You know, I never liked that woman. I've met chamber pots with a better personality than her."
Zelda gasped, desperately holding back laughter. "Uncle!" she chastised playfully.
"Well, it's true," he said with a friendly rub of her shoulder. "But alas, I'm off to save the king."
"Save the king?" the princess questioned, confused. She was unaware of her father's whereabouts.
"Yes, from any more embarrassment," he said with a grin and a slurp from his goblet, sauntering off.
Zelda, caught off guard, hadn't realized her father was drunk in his cups. Far more so than she had ever hoped to dream of, he was dancing with a jester and another, nicer lady from court. Arms locked as one, they whirled across the floor in a crowd of others. Before the Prince could save him, the brawny King grabbed his brother-in-law for a dance, whether he wanted to or not. Around they went to Zelda's amusement.
Pleased, the Princess watched the party carry on. She even caught the stern High Chancellor wearing a smile from time to time. *I guess he isn't made entirely of stone after all. Who knew?*
Finally, the night grew late, and the music began to settle. Many candles were blown out, and the voices softened. Some of the attendees had already departed to their own tents to rest from the day's splendor. Jun beside her gave a midnight yawn, and the sight made her yawn too. Her father was slumped in his chair, snoring like a Hinox.
With a firm nod, Danarus, Chancellor to the King, instructed soldiers to carry the King to his Royal Pavilion to sleep. Four men lifted the chair by its golden handles and took their sire to bed.
Zelda leaned to face Jun, who patiently sat beside her. "Tired?" she questioned the lad.
"Oh, no," he said, stiffening in his seat, pretending to be alert. After all, a warrior never gets weary before a princess. "I was just—"
"It's quite alright," she yawned again, unable to fight it. "It's been a long day for all of us. I myself could do with some shut-eye soon."
Overhearing, Urbosa agreed with a nod, and so did Impa. The princess faced Jun again. "I believe it is time for us to retire. Let us say our farewells and be off to bed."
Jun didn't protest, secretly relieved. He could do with a good night's sleep. It had been over a week since he had honest rest. Lately, he and his comrades on the road were forced to sleep with one eye open to keep watch. But not tonight. Tonight, he was promised a bed. And not just any bed made from loose straw in a barn, but a real bed. Perhaps even a feather pillow if he was lucky. In either case, he didn't care; he just wanted to sleep in peace.
Zelda, on her court's behalf, humbly curtseyed to those remaining before departing with her ladies in waiting. Jun was the last to follow, nearly forgetting he was part of her honorable entourage now.
Inside her pavilion, Jun couldn't believe how massive it was. It had entire chambers separated and sectioned off by veils and curtains. The place was fully furnished with all the amenities a princess could ever want or need. In fact, Jun had never seen a home as big as her tent.
Zelda left him to his partition, a spacious and luxurious area beside hers and her ladies' sleeping quarters. Though it had a bit of its own privacy. There Jun sat on a bed that was as luxurious as any he could imagine. Meanwhile, the princess was at the other end of the rotunda in a separate area, still bathing with the help of her maids before bed.
The princess did say he could go on without her and sleep, and that they would see each other in the morning and greet Helmsworth at first light. Raised tough in his own mind, Jun opted to go without a hot, soaking bath of his own and instead sponged washed with a basin and assortment of rags until he was clean enough to his satisfaction. The princess graciously gifted him a pair of new clothes for bed.
Now ready, the boy eagerly plopped onto the cloud that was his mattress and, with a couple of winks staring up at the ceiling of the tent, the fatigue of the day got the better of him, and he began to doze off into his thoughts.
All the while, questions still stirred in his little boy's mind before he could drift to sleep. Of what must be done in the coming days. But how? How could he go through with it? The Princess and her friends were so kind to him—Especially the Princess. And then there was Link too. The thought that he would have to slay one as sweet as one of those girls to get the job done was more than he bargained for. They're not anything like what he expected them to be. He halfway hoped for them to be cruel, it sure would make the task a lot easier. Alas, they weren't. On the contrary. They were everything he secretly hoped they would be.
The boy tossed and turned over in his new bed, hoping to find relief from his worrisome thoughts and remember the task at hand. To be brave when the time came. However, the cradling of the soft sheets against his skin like a mother's touch softened his wary heart. A heart he could've sworn he lost long ago. It's been so long since he seen his parents, their memory no more than a distant dream, one that no matter how much he relived when his eyes closed, always ended up a nightmare.
Authors Notes: I hope you all enjoy this chapter. The climax is very soon. Just a couple more and we're back to the main story. I do hope that this is entertaining, nevertheless. As always, I love to hear your thoughts. Let me know what you think. It helps me reach new readers. Please leave a star if you like this chapter. Thank you so much. As always, stay well wherever you are in Hyrule.