Chapter 14: Nothing
The clear sky lit the entire landscape before Link and Zelda as they slowly rode their way back into Hyrule. Snowpeak was beautiful, yet deadly at most turns.
They were both eager to get home. Link, to get back to Ilia and guarantee her safety. Zelda, in her own words "...to sleep for a week"
After they had shared an embrace the previous night, Link apologising for his anger, there was peace between them again. Link still felt uneasy, as if he should be punished somehow still. But Zelda rode next to him, back to her normal self.
As they crested a small hill, they saw patches of grass through the snow, signalling they were finally near the border of Hyrule, through the Zora's domain.
The smell of the air changed too, to water and stone. It was a refreshing change from the stinging sterile cold air they had experienced over the past few days.
"Finally...I really hope I don't have to come back here any time soon." Link said, worn out.
"I know exactly what you mean. It is a shame it is such a hostile landscape, for all of its natural beauty. And that view of Hyrule from the top of Snowpeak? I'm going to try and commission a painting of that." Zelda remarked, equally as tired.
Link was happy they could talk again. But inside, something gnawed at him. She had outright told him that she loved him.
He was still reeling from it, unable to believe it.
He had certainly bonded with her deeply over this adventure and had grown to respect her even more. But to love him? That was the most confusing part.
All of her talk of his putting other people first and diving headlong into danger? He supposed he did those things, but it was never to 'be a hero'. It was just what felt right at the
time.
He didn't want to leave the topic undiscussed but felt incredibly awkward at even thinking about it. But he knew leaving it untouched would be a problem, if the thoughts lay in his head, maybe even hers too. He had had enough of that with thinking of Midna and having it hurt him.
He slowed Epona to a standstill atop the hill they were on, observing the path back through the mountain passage to the Zora's domain some miles away. Zelda looked to him, smiling gently once more.
"Are you well Link? You look as if you wish to say something."
Grateful she could even smile at him again, he summoned his bravery once more.
"I'm well enough, thank you. I did want to ask about something and talk to you. But I feel awkward even thinking about it. It feels important though." he managed to say.
"I understand Link. And I believe I may have an idea of what it is you wish to discuss. Please voice it. It is only you and I here, after all, we can afford to be honest with one another."
Grateful for her taking the initiative, he drew a long breath.
"Alright... I wanted to talk to you about what we discussed last night. Not the argument part, but what you said near the end. That...you loved me…"
The words felt like he was pushing rocks out of his throat. Instead of recoiling or blushing, Zelda merely nodded with an earnest smile.
"I thought you may wish to. I stand by what I said. It is true after all. But what did you wish to discuss specifically?" she wondered.
"I...don't really know? It was a surprise to hear, absolutely. And part of me can't even believe that you feel like that about me. It feels unreal almost"
Zelda laughed gently at his remark.
"Is it because I am a princess perhaps?" she teased.
"Well, a little!"
Of course it sounded unreal because of that, he thought. He looked into the distance, focusing and remembering his earlier life.
"Before any of this, I worked on a farm. Around the village, we only ever discussed what might be happening in the castle, never thinking we would ever be able to see it, let alone royalty themselves."
He felt a little better, being able to get his confused thoughts out. He pushed a little harder, getting every stray thought out.
"But I suppose to be told something like that? It's just unexpected. Everything you said about me was very sweet, but I've never tried to...do things like that?" he wondered.
"I mean if I am in a situation where I have to draw my sword, then the only thing I am thinking of is how I can end it so quickly that I can put it away again"
He hated having to draw his weapon. Not only was his own life at risk, but the simplicity of either hiim or his opponent dying was macabre enough.
"So to be told I am loved because I appear...altruistic? I don't feel like I am."
Even though the idea was half-formed in his mind, getting the words out seemed to release a knot of tension that had been in him for a while. A thought that he realised had been bothering him ever since people became more aware of people's reactions to his deeds. Zelda smiled warmly again.
"And there it is. You do not feel, perhaps, that you deserve love or adoration from people because you were just trying to survive?"
"Exactly! I couldn't have put it better myself" he said excitedly, glad for her wisdom.
She looked thoughtful for a moment as she worked something out.
"Well, I cannot imagine life through your eyes. But from my perspective on the outside of those eyes, let me tell you what your deeds look like to me."
She adjusted herself on Cyd, getting more comfortable.
"I have seen you fight and plan and adapt to all kinds of situations. Whether that is from your experience or ideas, you are able to triumph against very tall odds. When you first learned that you would have to defeat Ganondorf, did you have any notion that you would be successful?"
"Hah! Not even slightly. I felt like it would have been impossible. That changing the laws of gravity would have been easier." he remarked in an instant.
"Indeed!" she smiled back. "Here was a task that sounded impossible, but you went and did it anyway. There was no good reason to believe you would succeed but it did not stop you from trying. It is that attitude that inspires awe and love."
She let the words sink in for a moment, so he could try and imagine how it would look to people witnessing what he did.
"Also, with training, any swordsman could perform pirouettes or jumping attacks. But they are mere techniques. It is the indomitable spirit, the refusal to back down even in the face of probable defeat that inspires people. It is also why such deeds are committed to song, so that the story can be told again, short of the real event happening again in front of the onlookers."
Link appreciated her insight. He hadn't truly tried to consider why people viewed him as a hero
in some cases.
"Not only did those deeds bring me hope when I needed it most, but you kept on doing it. You went out of your way to ensure people were safe. I also recall Shad telling me of how you had shown off to some of the excited children from Ordon. And I think that is when I started loving you.
A hero who still made time and effort to be kind to the people around him." She looked lost in thought again.
"And, frankly, if I was to choose a suitor for myself, I would refuse anyone that could not put any other person before themselves. That is the mark of a just and true king, someone truly worthy of a throne."
Link felt as if he finally understood a little better. It had bothered him for some time, thinking about why people liked him so much. But as ever, Zelda's wisdom had proven to be exactly what he needed.
What he needed...
Then his thoughts shifted back to her. About how she had said she denied her love for him, because she knew it would make things more difficult for him. He had been entirely focused on getting back to the Twilight Realm and then trying to save Ilia. But she kept everything to herself as he had. She must have felt at least as bad as he had, stuck in perpetual misery.
"Thank you, Zelda. As always, your wisdom proves invaluable. I feel like it's a little clearer now."
"Of course Link. In truth, I am pleased that I can be of some help"
"Here's the thing though. We've spoken a lot about me, but you're an equally as important part of this. If you've felt anything along the lines of what I've felt since Midna left, then it must have been difficult at best"
His gut clenched again, diving into a topic that meant a lot to her and could easily beupsetting. But he had found that getting thoughts out of his head had proven to be better than not. Hopefully, it would be true for her as well.
She remained silent for a moment as she retreated into her mind.
"That is...accurate." she said quietly.
"I cannot express my gratitude to you enough. To be told that you love me? It's honestly the most flattering thing I can think of."
She looked to him, her eyes a little wider.
"You were right. I never thought that the princess of all Hyrule would ever be interested in me like that. I wondered about the possibility now and then, but shut the thought down, because I told myself it must be impossible. Maybe if I had tried, then perhaps it could have been different."
Zelda already knew this, but hearing it spoken aloud was a different matter. Whatever she
thought though, she masked whatever she was feeling.
"I am sorry. That I didn't have the foresight to even think about it. I feel foolish. And worse for making you feel so bad too. I know exactly how it feels...wanting what you tell yourself you can't have."
The feeling of his heart breaking was a distinct memory. But here she was, with him still in the world and travelling together, not acting on what she wanted just for his sake.
"Ah... how I wish life were simpler..." he said flatly
At this, Zelda managed to laugh finally.
"They say misery loves company. I feel as if I know what they meant now" she remarked, dryly.
She looked to the clear blue sky, lighting her features with a pale light. Link dismounted. They were due to eat soon anyway and their hilltop seemed as good a place as any. Zelda followed suit and unpacked some of her now dwindling rations. They were both making good time to get back to Hyrule.
As they ate together in silence, they both stared across the landscape, letting their minds empty, reaching a peaceful nothingness. Eventually, Zelda spoke softly.
"I do not think I could stop how I feel for you Link. I will have to try my hardest to accept your heart belongs elsewhere. It is something I have had to practice many times before, so I suppose I will one day be alright."
She looked to the floor, crestfallen.
"But I would ask you for a personal favour, if I may?"
It was unlike Zelda to ask him anything like this. He was eager to help, however he could.
"Of course! What is it?"
She moved and sat next to him. Leaning her head on his shoulder once more, surprising him again.
"Please...hold me. And do so again at some point."
He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer, resting his head against hers, enjoying the closeness.
"You spent all this time thinking of what would be best for me... I wish you would be a little more selfish sometimes, you know?" he remarked quietly.
"I am being selfish right now!"
They both shared a private laugh, just enjoying the quiet moment together. Before they moved apart, Link felt spurred on to do something, anything to thank her for how hard she had made things for herself, just so things would be a little easier for him.
He leaned in and kissed her cheek.
She touched her hand to where he had kissed her. What followed was the purest smile Link could recall.
"Thank you, Link... I am happy we could talk like this. I hope you will indulge me like this again when we have a private moment, sometime in the future. It helps a great deal"
Link stood up, feeling numb in the cold. He turned to face her.
"It would be my pleasure."
He offered her his gloved hand. She took it gently as he helped lift her up. She looked contented. He realised it was the first time he had seen her express herself naturally. Most of the time, she maintained a dignified posture and a focused gaze. She cast a large shadow. But here she was, a woman like any other.
They spent another quiet moment together looking over the snowy fields. Then, they mounted their horses and spurred them on.
They rode for a while longer, until the sun reached its highest peak. Before them, finally, stood the cavern entrance that led back to the Hylia River, and its source in the domain of the Zora people. Riding through to the other side, the temperature rose and they were both finally able to pack away their warm furs.
It felt liberating to wear lighter clothing finally. Though Link's tunic remained the same as ever, if battered from his journey through Snowpeak. For how difficult the journey had been, they were both back in civilisation now. He would have to act more professionally around Zelda and try to not cause her problems with his direct manner of speaking.
The freedom of travelling alone with her, he was already starting to miss. At the mouth of the cave stood two Zora guards, perhaps the same ones that challenged them both the first time they came through.
"Halt travellers!" said one of them as both lowered their spears and pointed the tips towards them both.
Zelda, removed her head covering.
"Well met again, honoured guards of the Zora's domain." she said whilst inclining her head.
"Oh! Princess Zelda! My apologies..." The guard quickly lifted his spear upon recognising
her. "And Master Link of course" he said, bowing admired the Zora. Born built for any waters, their sleek and pearlescent skin along with fine
scales felt like natural elegance. Though he was surprised to see the guards wearing silver-coated armour. It was worn to allow their mobility but protect their backs and sides. They hadn't worn this the last time they came through. Zelda took the initiative.
"Our work in the Snowpeak region is completed, but I am afraid our supplies are close to running out. Please contact Prince Ralis. I would like to ask his permission to enter his realm and rest."
"Actually your highness, Prince Ralis was told of your passage when you last came through here. He instructed me personally to invite you to his throne room at your earliest convenience" the guard explained.
Link marvelled at their mannerisms. When he had visited here with Midna and saved their realm from being frozen, he had noted that the Zora appeared to be somewhat reserved. They mostly spoke Hylian as far as he could tell, but it was an entirely different culture. For them
to practice Hylian mannerisms for trade and statesmanship, it spoke well of them.
"Shall we?" Zelda asked him.
He nodded silently, not wanting to risk saying anything that might complicate their visit. He knew the importance of maintaining diplomacy in foreign territories. They both dismounted and tied their horses to a tree along the great river's edge. The guard walked with them up the winding path to the throne room. Privately, Link sorely missed being able to use the power of Midna's magic to travel great distances in an instant. As they walked up, Link noticed something unusual. Normally, there would be Zora swimmers diving into the pools below, fishing in the river or enjoying themselves
with their families.
There was no such sight. Instead, he saw several armoured guards with their favoured spears. Some carried ornate longbows and graceful looking arrows, packed into quivers. They were in tactically sound positions, archers stood at high vantage points with wide views, the spearmen in groups of four or so were patrolling the river. There was a tension in the air. He looked across to Zelda, but she either hadn't noticed it or had and was not showing her reaction. He followed her lead.
Sometime later, they arrived in the throne room. Great carved walls with an ocean blue hue rose tall into the domed ceiling. Each inch of wall bore a carving, telling the Zora's history. Link felt he would have loved the time to learn it. As they walked along, they both saw clutches of Zora families nestled together in private pools. Each of them looked worried to one degree or another as they clung close together. What was
going on? Things were not this tense a few days ago.
Before he could wonder about the situation any further, they saw Prince Ralis sitting on his throne. Link recalled how his mother had been killed by Zant and his minions during the Twilight crisis. He felt like he owed him better than he was given. Link, Zelda and the guard stopped on a platform in front of the throne, separated by the royal pool, clean and pure water welling from a source deep below, the source of all water in Hyrule.
Kneeling, the guard addressed the Prince.
"My lord Ralis, I present to you Princess Zelda of Hyrule and her companion Link, hero of the Twilight Crisis."
"Thank you, Tizona. You may return to your post" he replied, flatly.
The guard bowed and made his way out.
Link noted that Ralis was not lacking protection. Guards wearing full-faced plate armour,
adorned in silver were positioned around the royal chambers. The security was intense.
"Princess Zelda, thank you for answering my summons." he spoke, devoid of energy. She bowed slightly from her waist.
"Prince Ralis, it is a pleasure to speak with the Zora as always."
Not bad, Link thought. Simple and polite. He started drafting his response as Ralis looked
at him.
"Link...it is an honour to have you here once more. How have you fared since we last met?" he asked, far more eagerly, leaning forward in his seat.
Taken aback, he cast his eyes to Zelda. She remained unreadable. Surely Zelda was supposed to receive the enthusiastic response? But Link quickly realised Ralis was young and thrust into the role of leading the Zora. It'd make sense for him to not have etiquette perfected yet.
"It's been a busy year my friend. It's good to see you again." Link flashed him a genuine
smile and was happy to see it reflected in Ralis.
"And you too! Learning to lead has been a challenge, but I am blessed to have found councillors who are very patient with me." he remarked honestly, eager to impress Link.
"So I imagine, worthy Prince." Link inclined his head a little, hoping to instil some confidence in him.
"May I ask why you asked for Zelda and myself to visit?" He was still aware that he was on a time limit to return to Ghirahim. The quicker he could find out what was going on, the sooner he could buy Ilia and his child more time.
"Ah of course..." he remarked, losing some of his vigour.
"Well, it's a developing situation. One that I would like to discuss in private. Guards, leave us."
Without hesitation, all twelve heavily armoured guards marched out of the room in perfect
cadence, not doubting their lord's decision even once. They were either very well trained or the
opinion of royalty was absolute, Link surmised.
When the doors to the room clicked shut, the Zora prince dove into the water, swam across the pool dividing them and emerged in less than a few seconds. The Zora could swim up waterfalls, yet seeing such speed in the water always astounded Link. Zelda as ever remained unreadable. How was she keeping such a straight face? Link shifted his attention back to Ralis.
"I'm not sure what is going on and I can't afford to look weak in front of my people. A leader is supposed to be swift and decisive. And I barely know what I'm doing...even after a year's worth of tutelage..." He hung his head, earnest to a fault.
However, Zelda looked at him with kind eyes.
"I know exactly what you are going through Prince Ralis. Learning to lead is not easy, but it is not impossible either. May I give you some advice that was once given to me?" she asked politely.
Ralis looked up, his eyes wide. He was eager for any help he could get.
"Please!"
"Sometimes you will have to make a decision that could have wide-reaching consequences and you may not understand all of the particulars of that situation. In this instant, pick the decision that appeals to you the most, you must then stick by it despite all opposition. Remain resolute in yourself and your decision."
She paused for a minute, allowing the weight of her words to sink into his young mind.
"The second you allow critics to change your opinion, every other person will try to do the same. Then making decisions is near enough impossible without it being another person's decision."
Ralis nodded, absorbing Zelda's advice. He looked as if he had learned something incredibly
valuable.
Link admired her ability to convey wisdom with such grace and authority. He had seen her lead with strength and compassion, qualities that made her a natural ruler. As Ralis pondered Zelda's words, Link's thoughts drifted to the pressing matter at hand. The tension in the Zora's domain, the increased security, and the worried expressions on the Zora families' faces all pointed to a significant threat. He hoped Ralis would soon reveal what troubled his people so they could help.
"Now, Prince Ralis, please tell us what has been happening here," Zelda gently urged, bringing the conversation back to the immediate concern.
Ralis took a deep breath, his youthful face lined with worry.
"There have been strange disappearances in our domain. Zora villagers have gone missing without a trace. It started a few days ago, and the numbers have been growing. We've increased our patrols and fortified our defences, but we still don't know what or who is behind these disappearances."
Link's heart sank. Disappearances were never a good sign, and in a place as tight-knit as the Zora's domain, it would be deeply unsettling.
He exchanged a glance with Zelda, who nodded slightly, indicating she understood the gravity of the situation.
"Have you found any clues or evidence that might indicate who or what is responsible?" Link asked, focused on every syllable.
Ralis shook his head, frustration evident in his voice.
"Nothing! It's as if spirits take our people, leaving no trace behind."
Link frowned, considering the possibilities.
"Alright, do you know where your people disappeared?"
"Hmm..." said Ralis as he scratched his chin, organising his thoughts.
"I believe the first reports came from around our Lakebed temple, in Lake Hylia. Though other reports come from the lower end of the Zora river, connecting to Lake Hylia."
Link reached into his memories.
He recalled defeating a great eel in the base of the temple during the Twilight crisis. Could that have something to do with this?
"How many people have been reported as missing so far?" Zelda asked, looking for whatever extra details she could.
"Two people the first day, another three the next day, then five more reported this morning. So...uh...ten people..." Ralis replied.
The uncertainty and fear seeped into his voice.
"Alright. That is good information Prince Ralis. Thank you. Could you please tell me what those people were doing? Or perhaps what their roles are?"
Link felt a surge of pride in Zelda. In one swift move, she had reassured the young Prince and also asked more pointed questions that could only help. Ralis was eager to resolve whatever was happening too.
"Well some of them are meant to patrol the river itself, to make sure nothing interferes
with the water along its path to the river. There was one who worked for the Hyrule postal
service, bringing letters up and down the river. Some hunted particularly nice fish. The others
were meant to watch over the Lakebed temple as we began reconstruction of it."
A thought burst into Link's mind, something that he had always wondered.
"Reconstruction? Does the lakebed temple serve a purpose beyond being a temple? When I fought through it, I saw many strange devices. The technology in there looked like it was beyond anything in Hyrule." he asked.
Zelda raised her eyebrows, surprised at Link's question but eager to hear the response too as she turned to listen to the eager young Ralis.
"Well, it controls and purifies the water in the lake itself. Lake water has a habit of getting polluted if left to nature. Algae blooms and the like. Hylian's drinking from spoiled water would not fare well. Zora would catch diseases in fouled waters too, so it's mutually beneficial."
He thrust his chest out slightly, proud of his recollection.
"As for the technology? I am sorry, but I have no idea. We did find runes written in the Sky language on some of the mechanisms though. Some theories say it was a gift from the sky ages ago. But without an Oocca to ask, I couldn't really say more."
Link's mouth dropped. Oocca technology! The people of the sky lived in a floating city, of course
they could produce technology to purify an entire lake!
"I never dreamed it would have been so grand..." Zelda said lightly, her mouth ever so slightly open.
"So it became a place of worship over the years?" Link asked, eager to know more.
"Ah yes. Because of its function, it holds significance to our people. Without the machinery working, life around the lake would eventually stagnate. So we used to pray there. Since you cleared the place, we've sought to restore its glory." Ralis said, looking a little wistful.
He clearly cared deeply for his people and their rich history.
"The room of worship was tainted by malevolent shadows during the time of the Twilight crisis. It's a room with a lone tree in the middle of it. It used to be beautiful once...or so I'm told."
Link shuddered, remembering the brutal fight he had in that same room, with his shadow self. It
had been his most surreal duel. More so than fighting Zant, he thought.
"Alright. We have some information to follow up on. Ralis, I promise that when I am done with my current task, I will look into this and try to find out what is going on" Link promised.
Prince Ralis however did not look reassured.
"Alright...but how long do you think it will take? I do not want more of my people to disappear..." he near pleaded.
Link didn't recall how many days he had spent finding the piece of the Triforce of power. He knew Ghirahim had given him ten days to find it. Had seven passed already? Five? His urgency in solving the problem was making him a little irritable. But, thankfully, Zelda spoke instead.
"Fair Prince Ralis, I promise you we will both look into this. We owe the Zora for the decline in safety during the Twilight crisis. At present, both I and Link are occupied with a matter of national security. If, we do not deal with it." She was polite, but just firm enough.
Prince Ralis looked defeated, but not hopeless at least.
"I understand. I hope you are both able to resolve your issue as soon as possible. If it were not for events here, I would commit whatever help I could"
Link didn't like what was developing with the Zora. It was so easy to walk by having a normal day and be blind to every problem occurring. He swore to himself he would help, just as soon as he could buy Ilia and his child more time.
"Prince Ralis, if I may suggest something?" Link asked.
Ralis looked up, curious.
"If travelling the Zora river is essential, then send out larger groups. With more bodies together, there may be a better chance of finding out what is going on and those people returning safely"
Ralis looked thoughtful but eager for any more advice.
"But, if you can manage without travelling the river, keep everyone nearby. It sounds like the problem is in the Lakebed Temple itself, so that's where we will head once we can. We will report back with whatever we find."
At this, Ralis looked more relieved, some tension loosening from his taut shoulders.
"There is one other thing. May we rest here for a day? Our supplies are spent and we are both exhausted" Zelda asked.
Link felt his stomach knot and heat up. She of all people should know the urgency of what they were doing. But she was wise after all, Link supposed she might have another option she wouldn't mention in front of Prince Ralis though, so he held his tongue.
Ralis was quick to offer help to those who helped him though.
"Of course! I'll see to it you get good rooms! I will see to it that you want for nothing here" he said, bouncing on his feet.
Link supposed he was happy to have a clear idea of something to do, even as a distraction. Ralis lead them personally back through the royal chamber with more of a spring in his step. Zelda asked him to recount some of the detail in the carvings around the throne room and the explanation took them all of the way to the rooms Ralis had prepared for them. The carvings told stories of great people over their long history. Builders who discovered how to carve dense rocks, hunters who had felled dangerous prey and even one of Queen Rutela shaking hands with Zelda's father, the former king.
Zelda remarked hearing about that from her father when she was younger, as well as being proud of her father for working towards diplomacy. Ralis led them to some guest rooms, normally reserved for visiting dignitaries. Link was given a private room that overlooked the river. Zelda was given one next door to him. With how tight security had become recently, there were no other visitors allowed.
The room itself looked beautiful. Adorned with fine carpets, oil paintings of the surrounding landscapes and solidly crafted beds. It seemed the Zora spared no expense when playing host. Ralis instructed a servant to tend to their every need whilst they were his guests. For all of his inexperience, Link felt Ralis would make a fine diplomat one day. Hopefully, if he was somehow able to resolve whatever was happening to the Zora, it would help boost his
confidence a little. The young prince bowed to them both and excused himself, royal duties awaiting.
For the first time in a long time, Link was by himself. He lay back on the bed and felt his every aching muscle relax. However, after breathing deeply, he was horrified. The smell of blood and sweat was mingled together in every inch of his tunic. Looking down at it, he saw spatters of blood.
Was it his own? Stains of varying colours and discolouration. It had puncture holes spotted around the leather and several chains of the undershirt were severed and bent.
"Oh come on..." he groaned aloud. He had been this messy in front of both Zelda and Prince Ralis. How long had it been this bad? So much for setting a good impression, he thought. Looking around, he didn't find any clothes of any kind. Sighing to himself, he left the room and rang a bell that Ralis had left for them.
Moments later, the servant appeared. They were elegantly dressed, in a webbed white suit that didn't hinder them at all.
"Ah, Master Link! A pleasure, sir" she said as she bowed deeply. "What may I assist you with?"
She was bright-eyed and earnest. A very friendly face. Link realised that Ralis' skill in diplomacy may have been far sharper than he had given him credit for.
"Nice to meet you! Apologies, but I've only just realised how shabby my clothes are. Do you have any I could wear as well a place that could repair what I'm wearing?"
"Of course! Do you happen to know your measurements, sir?" the servant asked enthusiastically.
"Oh... I have no idea..." he admitted. "Also, Link is fine. I've always felt awkward with honorifics".
"But of course, Link." the servant bowed, not missing a beat. "With your permission, may I take your measurements myself?" they said as they took a tape measure from their pocket and showed it to him.
"Oh! Well, thank you! What do you need me to do?" he asked.
"Not a lot. Please could you extend your arms?"
Link did so, feeling a little awkward and exposed. The servant took measure of his arms, torso and legs in under a minute. He felt like had hardly had time to blink.
"There we are. With your permission, I will fetch you some new garments to your taste. May I bring you some refreshments or food perhaps?"
He almost felt his heart flutter. This is what it felt like to be royalty. Before he let it get to his
head, he wanted to jump on the chance to try Zora cuisine.
"Sure! The only food I don't really like is anything that contains Mackerel. Without that, anything will be fine" he shared.
"Oh, do you happen to have an allergy to it perhaps?" the servant wondered
"No, I have no allergies that I know of. But every time I eat it, no matter how it's prepared, I get a really bad aftertaste from it"
It felt surreal to be able to be so picky with his food. He normally took whatever he could get his hands on and knew how to prepare meats properly.
"Of course. I shall go and ask Princess Zelda too and return within twenty minutes. Is there anything else I may do?"
Link allowed his imagination to run wild for a second, imagining himself as Zelda's husband, wearing a crown and having servants tend to him. In the same instant, it seemed like a fun idea, but it also felt too strange. He was capable of doing things himself after all.
"Thank you, but I'll be ok. I appreciate your work. What's your name by the way?"
"I am Rayla, Link." she said, bowing deeply once more.
"I will be back soon. If you wish, you may wash yourself in the room there. Simply turn the wheels on the wall and warm water will cascade down. There is soap to assist too." She smiled without a drop of malice, but Link got the message.
She left the room, leaving Link to hold his head in his hands, hiding his embarrassment.
Heading into the room Rayla had pointed out, he found it to be an unusual design. Simple light blue tiles lined the walls and floors. In the wall, a metal pipe with a strange head on it jutted out of the wall. Below it were two small wheels that she had mentioned. On the wall opposite hung several thick and large towels. It looked surreal. This room was for washing? In his days at Ordon village, the people normally washed in the river. It was clean as water
flowed through it. This however felt a world apart.
Link tested the small wheels, one tinted red and another blue. Twisting them both gently, he got the shock of his life as warm water splashed down on his head, from the strange pipe in the wall above him. It soaked his tattered hat and shoulders before he reflexively jumped back, The water continued to stream down, wisps of steam coming off of it.
"This...is incredible..." he said, staring at the setup with his mouth hanging open a little.
Curious now, he removed his worn and stinking clothes and neatly folded them. Then he stepped into the small waterfall. As the warm water fell around him, the warmth soothed his tired and stiff muscles. With the tension melting out of his shoulders, he let out a contented sigh. Now soaked head to toe, he looked for the soap. That at least, he was familiar with. After thoroughly cleaning everywhere, he started to rub the soap through his hair. It had grown somewhat over the year, nearly reaching his shoulders now. The dull blonde strands felt greasy as he ran his fingers through it. Looking around at the apparatus, he saw a small bowl in a recess in the wall. It had a pearl coloured liquid in it, but on the bowl, Hylian script that read "For Hair".
He sniffed at the bowl and caught the scent of flowers. Roses perhaps? Whatever the mix was, it didn't seem harmful at least.
Scooping some into his hands, he shrugged and rubbed it through his hair. As he did, great amounts of soapy suds multiplied out from it. Amazed by the sudden foam, he looked at it in his hands in childlike wonder as the water washed it away. Rinsing the mixture through his hair, all of the suds gradually fell away, pooling around his feet before disappearing through a small drain in the floor. Link felt refreshed, like every burden had been lifted from him, if briefly. He stared at the cascading water for a moment longer, marvelling at the design. Why wasn't this commonplace?
Everyone should be able to stand in this shower of water. He tucked the thought into his mind, thinking of another project he could do after his work was done.
The thought snapped him back to reality. Ilia and his child were still in danger at the hands of Ghirahim. And here he was, just enjoying himself. Getting annoyed, he turned the wheels the other way and the cascade slowed to a stop. He took a towel and dried himself off, taking some extra time with his hair. Looking at a lock of hair on his shoulder, he saw that it now appeared to shine. The dull blonde had changed to a lighter shade and seemed somewhat radiant. Twirling his fingers through his hair, he couldn't believe how soft it now felt. That settled it, he thought. He would try, someday, to make this a standard in Hyrule. Until then though, he had work to do. Heading back into his room, he was pleased to see that Rayla had
brought him some fresh clothes to wear.
There was a cream-coloured toga, tanned trousers and some open-toed shoes. As he got dressed, he felt how soft the fabrics were. He had been so used to his armoured tunic that he no longer paid attention to how it felt. These clothes were delightful. Looking over his arms, he felt as if he was dressed for a noble's ball. There was also a steaming plate of fried fish and potatoes garnished with herbs. Link ate away at it, enjoying the light flavours. Cleaned, refreshed and now full, he felt the familiar urge to find something to occupy himself with. Stepping outside, he saw Rayla walking towards him down a corridor. She wore her bright smile again.
"Link, if I may say so, you clean up rather well indeed." she said earnestly.
Link blushed a little, happy at the compliment.
"Well, thank you! Whatever that device is in that room, I wish I could see it all across Hyrule one day"
"If you wish, I would discuss that with his majesty, Prince Ralis. I understand it was his idea some months ago. I am certain he would be willing to share its design." she said helpfully.
Link was liking Ralis more and more. For all of the princes self doubting, he was certainly proactive. It was clear he needed a decisive victory though, to cement his position.
"I think I will. By the way, my tunic and clothes are in the bathroom. I...apologise for their state, but it comes with the nature of my work. Please could you see that they are repaired and cleaned?" he asked, feeling rude for even asking. "At once, Link. I shall have them returned to you before the end of the day. Zora smiths and hideworkers are of exceptional skill" she said with another perfect bow. Rayla collected the garments and kept a straight face as she carried them out of his room. A thought occurred to Link as she moved. The Zora were an aquatic species after all. Maybe their
noses worked differently.
"Rayla, a quick question. How is your sense of smell, or Zora in general?" he wondered.
She paused and turned to Link, eager to assist.
"Well, my sense of smell is rather sharp. So are most Zora. But it may please you to know that we are only able to smell anything once we are underwater. The receptors in our noses cannot smell anything on dry land. But in the water? We are able to smell odours from great distances, as they are carried far and wide by currents and the like."
Link marvelled at the information, and also breathed a sigh of relief.
"Thank you Rayla." he said, inclining his head a little.
She smiled and left with his tattered garments. Now, Link stood aimlessly, quickly feeling a sense of urgency building in him. He couldn't sit idle.
Unsure of what to do next, or where to go without his clothes, he decided to try and speak to Zelda. They could do with discussing their next moves.
He knocked on her door.
"Enter", came the quick reply.
As he stepped into her room, he saw she was dressed in clothes much like his. Somehow, it made her look even more regal, yet approachable at the same time. She had washed her haitoo, possibly with the same mix he had and her hair shined under the light of the room.
"As Rayla said to me, you clean up well!" he remarked.
Zelda's cheeks glowed red a little, but she remained composed enough.
"Thank you Link. And I agree with her, she was right. Please, come in"
Link felt a warm feeling spread through him. He moved to sit at a small table, Zelda sat opposite, ready to talk.
"Zora hospitality puts Hylians to shame. I am going to have to do a lot more work on this when I eventually get back to my role in the castle." she surmised, plotting changes and decorations already.
"That water shower... when I eventually have free time, I'd like to make those commonplace in Hyrule." he said, the daydream making him feel eager.
Zelda smiled warmly at the thought.
"Indeed. I'm grateful to Prince Ralis for this. But I imagine you did not come to me just to discuss how nice a shower is?"
"No, I didn't. I need to plan what to do next. The crisis mounting with the Zora is alarming. But I can't start investigating that without seeing Ghirahim first. Ilia and my child..."
The very thought stirred in him and surfaced anxiety again. He hoped that Ghirahim would have been true to his word at least, that Ilia and his child would have been fed and watered. It hurt him further that he still didn't even know the child's name. Then there was the issue of the
Gerudo assassins, the Red Vipers that he had in his employ. They had made strong claims that despite seeking assistance from Zelda and her father, their calls for help went unanswered. If Zelda came along...
"There may be another issue amongst this. I don't know what you plan to do, if you wish to return to the castle. But if you are to journey with me still, I should warn you."
He paused, waiting to see her reaction. She was still and focused on him. She wished to hear it at the very least.
"Ghirahim has in his employ a band of Gerudo assassins. They call themselves the Red Vipers" At his mention of them, Zelda's eyes shot open wide.
"The Gerudo?! You spoke with them?" she exclaimed loudly
"Well...yeah..."
"This is incredible! We have not heard from the Gerudo in decades. But you say they are assassins? How did they come to work for Ghirahim? Why have they not responded to our messages? Did you get the name of any of their leaders?" Zelda said rapidly, leaning forward on the edge of her seat, almost bouncing.
Link's surprise was immense. He had thought that as a leader that Zelda would have at least had knowledge of the Gerudo or some level of contact with them. He wondered about what she had said, that they hadn't had contact with them in decades. What was going on
"Well...when I spoke to one, called Sabbah, she...didn't paint a good picture of Hylians at all. She told me that her people had sent letters and rupees, requesting aid during times of drought in the desert, but that there was never any response from Hyrules royal family" Link explained, wondering where the communication breakdown started.
"What?! Link, we never once received any communication from the Gerudo. My father always strove for diplomatic ties and taught me to do the same. I sent multiple letters to them, asking for contact. This was years ago too!"
Alarmed as she was, Link shared her worries. What happened to those letters? From both sides. How could there have been such a void of communication between them both?
"I...don't know what to say..." Link admitted. He tried to assemble possibilities in his mind, but the shock of learning about the lack of contact made it harder to focus. Minutes of silence developed between them as they both tried to focus on ideas and imagine
what had happened.
Link wandered through every possibility he could think of. Was there some third party involved somehow? Was there lingering resentment for previous transgressions? Had bad weather in the desert killed all of the messengers?
"Ah..." Zelda finally uttered, grimly.
"You've had an idea?" Link asked
"Ganondorf." she said, looking Link dead in the eyes.
"So I imagine anyway. He has his origins in the Gerudo people. Born as the only male in a race of almost entirely women, destined to be their leader by their ancient traditions and father to the new generation. He would have much to gain, provoking the Gerudo in to believing Hyrule wasn't willing to make an effort with them."
Of course it would be him, Link thought. The one man who sought the throne of Hyrule could have made it far easier if he somehow removed Hyrule's allies, one by one. The freezing of Zora's domain, the shutting of the mine of Death Mountain, turning the Gorons hostile... Suddenly, the events of the Twilight crisis felt a lot easier to understand.
"Even as a prisoner in the Twilight realm, he eventually exerted influence in our world too. Before his imprisonment there, he was active. It follows that he would have multiple far-reaching plots." Link suggested
"Then the Gerudo too. It would be easier to instil hatred of Hyrule if he was already their leader before his activities. And he would probably know the diplomatic routes that messengers would take so they could be intercepted... Ah, how did I not see this earlier?" Zelda admitted,
defeated.
They both sat back in their chairs, letting the idea process in their minds. It made perfect sense. Why wouldn't Ganondorf seek to make his conquest of the throne easier? Then, an idea formed in Link's mind, something that could help a great deal with his current plight. Spurred on, he quickly prayed that Zelda could help. He leaned forward.
"Did you happen to make copies of those letters? I imagine diplomatic messages would
be recorded for reference...or something" he said.
In an instant, Zelda's eyes perked up as she sat bolt-upright.
"Proof! If we show the Gerudo proof that we tried to contact them, it would at least highlight that we tried but the messages never made it through! It would show the manipulation of their people!" she said, suddenly full of vigour.
"You are right too! We duplicate things like this so we have a record of what the castle has been doing over the years. There is an entire room that stores all of these copies!"
"Once we leave here, we will have to stop by the castle. Do you know how many days we've spent since we left the castle for Snowpeak?" Link asked, spurred on.
"Yes, it has been six days since we set out from the castle. However, three remain. It took you a day, after you first learned of the deadline, to reach me in the castle."
Link planned out what to do in his mind. He knew they could both reach the castle within a day, if they rode hard. Then hopefully collect the relevant documents on that same day and then set out again. They would likely have to stay the night here and then set out at dawn. But it seemed possible. He could make it back to Faron Woods and Ordon Village just in time. Provided all went well.
Link and Zelda enthusiastically started planning together, talking at length and detailing ideas. The energy sustained them for a long time. Rayla showed up later to bring them both a hot meal. Fish straight from the river served with steamed beans and a peppery sauce. Even a fruity cocktail that refreshed them.
Link thanked her profusely as she beamed once more, with a polite bow. As they finally fleshed out the finer details of what they were going to do, they both realised it had gotten late. The sun had set over the horizon, casting the Zora's domain into night. They felt as if they had exhausted most of their options and had a plan of what to do to get the documents as well as reach Ordon Village on time.
"I think that settles it, Link. Finally, we have a foil that could disrupt the balance in Ghirahims plans" Zelda said, satisfied.
She leaned back in her chair finally. Letting a long breath out.
"I can't believe it...we may have figured out how to solve a major problem just by sitting in a room together. I mean, we still need to do the things, but I've never had such clarity when solving problems before..." he said as pleased as he was drained.
There was a knock at the door.
"Enter" Zelda said.
Rayla had returned to bring the dishes back for washing, but something wasn't right. Her usual cheerful demeanour was pained. Even the colour of her skin had dulled somewhat. Seeing the two of them, she managed a weak smile that didn't last.
"Good evening...your majesty, and Master...Link" she said, far more weakly.
Link and Zelda looked to each other, worried.
"Rayla? Are you alright?" Link asked.
"Oh, not... to worry Master. I... am merely tired. A good night of... rest, and I shall be fine in the...morning" she replied, barely able to string the words together.
"Rayla, you look to be quite ill..." Zelda added.
"Ah, my...apologies...your Majesty... I will... see...our doctors shortly.
Link had no idea what was wrong with her. He knew his own body and what it felt like to be sick.
But to be so discoloured...
Rayla helped herself to the plates and left without a word. No enthusiastic bow, or even a weak
one this time.
Link and Zelda looked to each other.
"I hope she's alright...I like her. She's a model for a butler...or whatever the Zora equivalent is." Link said.
"It is concerning, yes."
Zelda looked as worried as Link felt.
"Still, if she says she will see a doctor, then we will have to leave it to her. I am no expert on Zora's physiology after all." she shrugged.
"I suppose so. As for us, we should probably get some rest too. There's lot to do tomorrow."
Zelda nodded and stood up to see Link out of her room. As she stood at the door, she asked one more thing.
"Before you go, please would you indulge me once more? I feel like we have enough privacy. If you do not mind that is?"
He could almost hear the hope masked in her voice. Without saying a thing, he wrapped his arms over her shoulder, around her waist and held her close as she did the same with him.
Feeling her let her head rest on his shoulders again, he held her closer.
"Thank you, Link" she said sweetly.
"It's a pleasure. I'm proud of us being able to work so well together, you know." he said honestly.
Zelda lifted her head and smiled, looking into his eyes for a moment. In them, he saw her affection laid bare. His heart fluttered at the sight.
"It is nice to be able to work with someone so capable. Good night Link, sleep well."
Smiling, he let himself out and went to sleep in his room. As he drifted into his dreams, his mind showed him a tapestry of his journey. From meeting Midna for the first time to speaking with the Hero of Time. Then traversing the depths of the Goron mines and when he had been a wolf. As he viewed them from the third person's perspective, he appreciated the detail he could see, from the pivotal moments to the tragic ones. Then there was Zelda...
He awoke gently on the incredible bed, feeling fully rested and refreshed. The Zora's hospitality had been incredible. But there was work to do now. In a box by the door of his room, he opened it and found his original clothes, now fully cleaned and repaired. The leather looked brand new and the chain links of the undershirt seemed to be made of another metal entirely now. It was tinted blue and felt even lighter than his previous iron one. Dressing himself, it felt good to step into his outfit once more. It fit like a glove and all traces of odour had gone. He was fresh and now, he felt ready. Gathering his equipment and strapping everything to himself, he stepped out into the corridor. Zelda was already waiting for him.
"Good morning!" She said, bright and cheerful.
"And to you. Did you sleep well?"
"I somewhat miss my own bed, but this was a wonderful one to sleep on. Are we ready to go? We should probably thank Prince Ralis from the bottom of our hearts for this."
Link nodded eagerly.
They made their way through the corridors, back to where Prince Ralis had spoken to them.
"Bit quiet don't you think?" Link remarked, feeling that the building was missing something.
"A little. Perhaps it's just the still of the morning." Zelda said, matching Link's pace.
As they reached the throne room though, Link's observation turned out to be right. There was nobody in the room. No guards, nor Prince Ralis.
"Hmm. Maybe they're outside?" Link wondered.
They both made their way through the ornate throne room. It felt strange. No noise beyond the trickle of water.
Stepping outside into the communal area was no better. Not a single Zora was in sight.
Looking at each other, Link and Zelda shared a look of concern.
"Do you think this had anything to do with their...people disappearing problem?" Link asked
"Possible...but I can't say for certain..."
They walked through the eerily empty halls, every footstep rebounding off the walls. Water reflections glinted off the ceiling to no spectators but them.
Soon enough, they made their way outside, seeing the great waterfall and the start of the Zora River. Nothing.
"And here too?!" Link said, exasperated.
Zelda went and started looking along the river further down the sloped path. Link went back into
the main hall.
"Hello?! Anybody here?!" he bellowed into the empty grand room, his voice echoing.
Nothing.
He went back outside to see if Zelda had found anything.
She hurried back up to him after she saw him come out.
"Link...I cannot find a single Zora anywhere... There is nothing"