Chapter 65 - Gerudo Temptations
Summary: In the Calamity Timeline, the more liberated Gerudo Vai of the present day host a party for their Hylian soldier guests, their intentions beyond mere celebration.
The blazing late afternoon sun beat down relentlessly on the edge of the Kara Kara Bazaar, its rays shimmering off the desert sands and causing a blinding glare. Hylian soldier Fallon and his comrades had just finished a grueling sparring session with a group of Gerudo guards. Sweat dripped from their foreheads, and their muscles were sore, even though the Gerudo had chosen to hold the session by the bazaar, where the temperature was slightly cooler than in the unforgiving open desert. But for the Gerudo warriors, this heat was apparently nothing compared to their daily challenges, as they showed no weariness or discomfort.
Despite the difficulties of fighting in such extreme conditions, Fallon excelled, outshining his fellow soldiers with his impressive skills and agility. His opponent, a fierce Vai fighter named Zara, couldn't help but offer him praise.
"You are a skilled fighter for a Hylian," she said admirably. "Your movements are graceful, and your defense is flawless."
"I owe my improvement to some combat training from a highly skilled Hylian warrior," Fallon modestly admitted. "It greatly enhanced my technique and confidence."
"Indeed!" Zara exclaimed. "I would love to learn more. You must tell me about it later."
Just then, Gerudo captain Greta called for everyone's attention.
"That was an impressive display of combat. Now it is time for some well-deserved celebrating and socializing," she announced. "Refreshments are waiting for us at a large tent by the sparkling oasis, including some icy cold Noble Pursuits. I recommend a quick swim to cool off before we begin our festivities. Towels to dry off are available, and one of our merchants has kindly supplied samples of her cologne in hopes that you will buy some from her afterward. Please feel free to give it a try."
A cheer erupted from the exhausted soldiers, and Torin, Fallon's close friend, eagerly approached him.
"Let's go for a swim and then head to the party. After all that fighting in this arid heat, I could really enjoy a swim and a cold drink. And who knows, maybe their cologne will help me attract some cute Vai there," he said with a sly grin.
"I suspect the reason for these combat training exercises is for Gerudo warriors to find potential suitors," Fallon whispered back with a small smile. "They don't learn any combat techniques from us. And rumor has it that their cologne is designed to stimulate our desire as much as theirs. I think I'll relax on my own after the swim and call it a day."
"Don't be such a loner, Fallon. That would be very impolite to our hosts. Or has the Princess put you under some spell that prevents you from being around anyone else? I warned you about the Royal Family's magic," Torin teased.
"If by spell you mean being in love, then yes," Fallon chuckled. "I wouldn't want to do anything to hurt her feelings. She means the world to me, Torin, and I count my lucky stars I ever met her."
"Why would going to a party thrown by our gracious hosts offend her? We need to express our appreciation and gratitude," Torin reasoned. "I'm sure not attending the party will reflect poorly on you and earn you a bad mark in our Captain's report, something you don't need if you still want to advance to a Royal Guard position. Or are you counting on the Princess to care for you now?"
"All right, I'll attend the party, but leave early," Fallon reluctantly conceded as they made their way towards the pool of water. They joined the other Hylian soldiers as they undressed and dove into the cool water.
"Ahh, that feels so refreshing!" said Torin as he floated on his back. "And I think one of the Gerudo Vai may have her eye on me."
"Now, maybe I should be the one warning you," laughed Fallon as he floated beside Torin. "Some Gerudo Vai can be very serious when it comes to relationships. Be careful not to start something that you're not ready for."
"You're stuck in the old ways of thinking, Fallon, how the Gerudo Vai were a generation or more ago," replied Torin. "Nowadays, they are more open to intimate experiences with Voe before settling down. There's only so much you can learn from a class."
"Fine, suit yourself," chuckled Fallon.
Nearby, the Gerudo warriors huddled in boisterous chatter after changing out of their guard uniforms and into more alluring evening attire inside the inn. Farana glanced at her friend Zara as they watched the Hylian soldiers swim.
"Have an eye on anyone?" Farana playfully prodded, her eyes dancing with mischievous intent.
Zara took a moment to ponder before responding.
"Maybe," she confessed. "The Voe I sparred with earlier displayed admirable strength and skill. He could potentially make a suitable mate and father strong offspring. However, I did not sense any hint of attraction for me in his eyes. I'll keep my options open, but I may have to look elsewhere. What about you?"
Farana chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "No one special," she answered coyly. "But Voes always seem more attractive after some Noble Pursuits, so who knows? Besides, any opportunity for seduction practice is never wasted. I prefer hands-on experience over lectures on how to woo a Voe."
Zara couldn't help but laugh.
Following a refreshing swim, the Hylian soldiers donned fresh uniforms and congregated at a nearby tent. A merchant was stationed at the entrance, inviting the Hylians to sample her cologne.
"Vasaaq! Try our alluring cologne, which is made with secret ingredients. No Vai can resist its fragrance!" she exclaimed. "And if you buy a bottle before the party ends, you'll get it at half price."
Many soldiers eagerly tried out the cologne, splashing it on their cheeks and necks, including Torin. Fallon politely declined.
"Let me see if she'll give you a sample to take back with you," suggested Torin. "The Princess might like it."
But the vendor refused, insisting that only those who purchase a bottle can take cologne with them.
"I don't need to attract a Vai, Torin," said Fallon. "I've already met the one of my dreams."
"You just can't let loose and have fun anymore, can you?" remarked Torin with a shake of his head. "It's that Royal Family spell I warned you about."
Fallon laughed as they entered the tent, which was dimly lit by colorful lanterns hanging from above. Upon entering, each Gerudo and Hylian guest was handed an ice-cold Noble Pursuit.
"For a toast to our camaraderie," explained the Vai handing out drinks. "It's our tradition here."
Once everyone was inside the tent, the Gerudo captain addressed them all.
"Vasaaq! Before we begin the festivities, it is customary to make a toast to our long-standing friendship and alliance with the Hylian army," announced Greta. "Everyone must finish their drink! Cheers!"
Torin easily gulped down his drink, but Fallon only took a small sip, which did not go unnoticed.
"If you keep being rude, you'll cause some hard feelings," whispered Torin. "Trust me, it's not that strong. It's been watered down with all this ice."
With some reluctance, Fallon finished his drink and immediately felt the effects.
"Not that strong?" he groaned as Torin chuckled.
"Come on, it will help you relax and enjoy yourself," encouraged Torin.
As the evening continued, drinks flowed, and the atmosphere in the tent became livelier. Gerudo and Hylian soldiers mingled, sharing laughs and stories. The musicians played exciting Gerudo melodies, filling the air with a captivating energy that inspired some to start dancing.
When Torin left to get another drink, Fallon suddenly found Zara standing beside him. The heady scent of the perfume she was wearing stirred something within him. She suddenly looked less like a warrior and more like a beautiful woman, her new outfit revealing more skin than it concealed. He found himself blushing and struggling to maintain his composure.
Zara flashed a cute smile as the beat of the music grew faster and louder, causing her to lean closer to be heard. Her warm breath brushed against his ear as she asked, "Could you tell me more about how you became such a skilled fighter?"
Fallon tried to focus, but her voice was soft and sultry, and the drink and her intoxicating perfume added to his difficulty. He felt flush, his heart racing.
"I … um, I received some combat tips from a descendant of the legendary Hero of Hyrule," he muttered.
"Indeed! That is quite fascinating," Zara purred as she twirled a strand of her long red hair around a finger. "Perhaps you could give me a lesson, show me in detail what you learned."
Fallon swallowed hard as he inhaled her enchanting scent again and replied, "I'm … not sure I could teach you much. You seem quite experienced already."
"Allow me to share some of my techniques with you, then," Zara smiled like a cat eyeing its prey as she drew nearer. "I have intimate knowledge of hand-to-hand encounters when weapons are unavailable."
As she smiled at him, his thoughts were suddenly consumed with vivid fantasies and not about sparring. He couldn't help but feel drawn towards her but knew he had to fight the urge. The drink and her perfume were affecting him too much. He shook his head to clear his thoughts.
Zara's voice dripped with seduction as she leaned in close, her lips brushing against his ear. "You know where to find me if you're interested," she said.
With a sly smile, she turned away and disappeared into the throng of bodies pulsing to the rhythm of the music in the tent's center.
"I should step outside," Fallon muttered to himself. "Between the drink and perfume in the air, I'm losing it."
Meanwhile, Torin was embroiled not just in spirited banter about desert combat tactics but also caught up in Farana's intoxicating charm. As they sipped their Noble Pursuits, their eyes locked onto each other. Then Farana leaned in, her voice a soft whisper that tickled Torin's ear and sent shivers down his spine.
"Are you enjoying yourself?" Farana asked as she gently touched the back of his hand, her fingers tracing a slow, deliberate pattern across his skin.
The simple touch caused a surge of electricity to shoot through Torin's body, igniting every nerve ending with desire.
"A dance now would be nice," said Torin as he took Farana's hand and led her to the tent's center, where bodies swayed to the music. Farana's body moved with a fluid grace that left little to the imagination, every sway hinting at hidden pleasures beneath her skimpy silk outfit. Their eyes locked as they moved together in sync with the intoxicating beat surrounding them. Unable to resist any longer, Torin wrapped his arms around Farana's waist and crashed their lips together in a hungry kiss. Their tongues caressed passionately as they ignored everyone else around them.
As the night wore on, suggestive glances and whispered promises filled the air. The soldiers - Hylians and Gerudos alike - found themselves caught up in the mood. Lips brushed against ears, sharing passionate words as some couples disappeared into nearby tents or booked beds at the inn for the night at a suddenly inflated price for Hylian guests. The Gerudo were savvy merchants, too, after all.
Meanwhile, as Fallon stepped outside into the crisp, night air, he felt a sudden wave of relief wash over him. The cool breeze danced across his skin, bringing a refreshing chill after the warmth of the crowded party indoors. Above, a black sky stretched above him, speckled with countless stars that twinkled like diamonds against the darkness. As he strolled further away from the bustling celebration, the desert landscape around him was serene and still. The only movement came from nearby palm trees, their fronds rustling gently in the quiet breeze.
"The desert has some of the most beautiful skies in Hyrule," he muttered to himself.
Gazing up at the stars, Fallon's thoughts immediately went to Astra. She had told him the story behind her nickname, and now, whenever he looked up at the starry nighttime sky, he couldn't help but think of her.
"I love you, Astra. I don't belong here; I belong with you. I can't wait to return to Hyrule Castle tomorrow."
Since everyone would be sleeping late, traveling back to Hyrule Castle would take the entire next day. Fallon made his way toward the camp where the Hylian soldiers were stationed. After undressing and settling into his sleeping bag, he fell into a deep and restful sleep, possibly helped by the drink he had earlier.
The next morning, Fallon awoke late but not as late as his colleagues. He dressed and then returned to the bustling Kara Kara Bazaar. The marketplace was busy, with colorful tents and carts all around. The warm morning air was filled with the fragrant scents of spices and fruit from nearby stalls.
The Starlight Memories jewelry shop had set up a small, ornate tent for the visiting Hylians, and Fallon made his way toward it. He carefully examined each piece on display, finally settling on a delicate sapphire bracelet that caught his eye. He hoped it would be a fitting gift for Astra, and he haggled with the merchant until he could afford the price. Then, he couldn't help but feel excited about soon holding Astra in his arms once again. He returned to camp and began packing for the trip home.
Later that day at Hyrule Castle, the sun cast an orange glow across the land as Astra finished her last meeting of the day. She stopped to glance out one of the open windows, where she could feel a gentle breeze blowing through her hair. It was a beautiful day, one she had been anxiously waiting for. Fallon was finally due back today. After a moment more to enjoy the view and fresh air, she emerged from her office, stepped into the hallway, and headed towards Zelda's Chief of Staff Myra's desk.
"Is there anything else needing my attention today, Myra?" inquired Astra.
"No, Highness," replied Myra with a smile. "You're all caught up. Your ability to meet deadlines has made life easier for Her Majesty."
"We aim to please," chuckled Astra. "In that case, I will be leaving a bit early today. Fallon is expected to return from his unit's visit to the Gerudo Desert, and I'd like to be ready to welcome him back. You remember Fallon, right?"
"Certainly, Highness," replied Myra with a smile. "He's the brave soldier who risked reprimand from his superiors to send a Princess flowers."
"That's the one," laughed Astra. "I'm looking forward to our reunion. Please inform Her Majesty once her meeting concludes."
"Of course, Highness," nodded Myra. "Enjoy your time together."
Astra's heart raced with excitement as she hurried down the stairs to her room, eager to freshen up and change into her casual travel clothes. She couldn't wait to see Fallon again after being apart for so long, and she thought it would be quicker to meet him outside the Castle rather than have him pass through the tedious security procedures inside.
As she prepared herself, Astra heard a voice in her head.
"Are you feeling well, Mistress?" Fi asked.
"I'm fine," replied Astra. "Why do you ask?"
"I sense heightened levels of anxiety as if you are preparing to face a difficult foe."
Astra chuckled. "The only 'foe' I'm facing is trying to control my desire to see Fallon again," she admitted. "You know, the other half of my mission?"
"Ah, yes," said Fi understandingly.
When Astra was finally ready, she made her way to the castle entrance. The guards nodded and greeted her respectfully as she passed by. She then headed towards the barracks alongside the castle grounds, finding a discreet spot to wait for Fallon. She scanned the area eagerly, hoping to catch a glimpse of him.
Meanwhile, soldiers she recognized as from Fallon's unit by their insignia arrived at the barracks with elated expressions on their faces.
"Man, I can't believe we're back!" exclaimed one soldier to his comrade. "And last night… whew! It was unforgettable. Those Gerudo women are as hot as the desert itself. After a couple of drinks, I completely lost myself."
His friend laughed in agreement. "I didn't get much sleep last night either. I ended up in a bed at the inn with someone named Beatra and never felt better my whole life! I'm going to try to see her again."
"It seems like everyone in our unit had a good time," chimed in the first. "Plenty of Gerudo Vai were willing to spend time with us."
"They were more than willing, if you know what I mean," the second soldier added with a smirk, then they both laughed.
More soldiers arrived, and Astra strained her neck, her heart racing with worry, searching for any sign of Fallon among the group. But he was nowhere in sight. Finally, she spied him, bringing up the rear, accompanied by another soldier he seemed to be consoling.
"I'm sure you'll feel better by tomorrow, Torin," said Fallon. "Just watch what you eat and rest."
"I will," said Torin with a groan. "I know my limit of Noble Pursuits now."
"Oh, there's the Princess," said Fallon hurriedly as he saw Astra wave. "I had better go."
Fallon rushed to where Astra was standing, and without saying a word, he took her in his arms. Then, they kissed several times before Fallon finally spoke up.
"Come on, let's go somewhere more private," Fallon said urgently, taking her hand and leading her from the group toward Hyrule Forest Park. "I've been dreaming of being back together with you since the day I left."
"Yes, let's," said Astra. "I want to hear all about your experience. Are you wearing perfume?"
"Huh? Oh, no. It's probably just some lingering scent on my clothes from the Gerudo women at last night's party," he said nonchalantly.
"Excuse me?" said Astra as her eyebrows shot up in surprise and confusion.
What had happened with Fallon at the party? But before she could inquire further, Fallon pulled her into a secluded spot behind a tree, and their lips met in another passionate kiss.
"I missed you so much," Fallon whispered between kisses.
"I missed you too, and I want to hear about your experience," Astra murmured, running her hands through his tousled hair, her heart beating wildly in her chest. "But first, tell me about the party."
"Well, it was a celebration to end our combat training time together. Many of the Hylian soldiers ended up … getting involved with the Gerudo women there, who behaved rather seductively. It was hard to avoid, given the situation, with drinking, music, dancing, and such."
"Hard to avoid?" Astra repeated, her eyes narrowing.
"For them, not for me," Fallon quickly clarified. "Trust me, I did not get involved with any Gerudo Vai. I bought you a present, though."
Fallon reached into his knapsack and removed the box with the bracelet. Astra opened it at once and admired it.
"It's beautiful! I love it!" Astra said as she slipped it on her wrist. "But please tell me you didn't get this out of guilt for your behavior."
"No, no, not at all, sweetheart. I got it because I love you, and I would never do anything to hurt you," said Fallon. "Please trust me on that."
"I do," said Astra. "Just hurry and pass that Royal Guard exam so you don't have to travel so much. And please wash off that scent from your clothes. I don't want to be reminded of Gerudo Vai the next time we're together."
"I will," laughed Fallon as they shared a kiss.
"Now tell me more about what the Gerudo Vai did to be so seductive," said Astra. "Maybe I can learn something from them."
"Do I really have to talk about that?" said Fallon, blushing. "You're already more seductive and beautiful than any of them, sweetheart, just being yourself."
"You really are good at giving the right answers," laughed Astra. "Shall we continue kissing then? You have a lot of time to make up for."
"With pleasure," laughed Fallon as he took her in his arms again, and they resumed kissing.
As their kisses deepened, Astra could feel her worries melting away. Her heart swelled with relief and love, a warmth spreading through her. There was something comforting in his presence, a sense of affection and familiarity that she had truly missed.
Fallon broke away from their kiss, his fingers tracing the line of her jaw gently. He looked into her eyes and said, "I've missed your beautiful smile, Astra. I've missed everything about you."
She gave a soft laugh, looking up at him with sparkling eyes. "And I've missed your charm," she replied softly.
He chuckled at that and embraced her tightly once more, burying his face in the crook of her neck. She ran her hands through his hair soothingly.
Then, their peaceful moment was interrupted by a growl from Fallon's stomach, which made Astra pull away with a giggle. His face turned slightly red as he admitted, "I guess I'm hungrier than I thought. I kept my friend Torin company on the way back, and he didn't feel well enough to eat anything, so neither did I."
"Come on then," she said, holding her hand for him to take. "Let's go to Castle Town, where we first met. We can grab something to eat there."
Fallon took her hand happily, and they began to walk together.
"And afterward, you can resume paying me for lost kisses while you were away," she added, making Fallon laugh. "You have a lot to go!"