21-07-2010, 09:48 PM
I started a new fic, hurrah. It's a serious one, :S. Anyways, if you're into tLoZ you might like this, and just so you know, it is based AFTER Twilight Princess.
Chapter One Spoiler:
Chapter Two Spoiler:
Chapter Three Spoiler:
Chapter Four Spoiler:
Chapter Five Spoiler:
Chapter Six Spoiler:
Chapter Seven Spoiler:
Chapter Eight Spoiler:
Chapter Nine Spoiler:
Chapter Ten Spoiler:
Chapter Eleven Spoiler:
Chapter Twelve Spoiler:
Chapter Thirteen Spoiler:
Chapter Fourteen Spoiler:
Chapter Fifteen Spoiler:
Chapter One Spoiler:
"He's back, and he's got a new trick..." - Magical Trevor 2
The cries of battle raged on, as swords clashed and blood was spilled. In the chaos of the battle, none noticed as an armoured individual, a determined look in his eyes as he forced his blade into that of his enemy. With a satisfied smirk he span around, slashing the long blade around to clear the area. Jumping in the air, he plunged his sword into the chest of his enemy, watching as he died. As he span around to meet his next opponent, he felt a fatal blow as a sword ripped through his back, and he fell into the inviting embrace of death...
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She woke in a cold sweat, gasping for breath as she sat bolt upright in her bed. She looked around her dark dorm room, staring uneasily through the gloom, listening to the other orphans breath easily in their sleep. This was the sixth night in a row that the strange dream had haunted her and she didn't understand why. She wasn't a violent person, so the dreams of battle and blood-lust were shocking to her.
Her name was Linda, and as far as she and the orphanage staff were concerned, she had lived in the orphanage in Castle Town all her life. Now seventeen years old, she was the oldest orphan in the orphanage and would soon have to leave.
Linda didn't know much about herself except that she'd been found on the doorstep of the orphanage with a lot of books, a letter with her name on it and a young foal. The orphanage had grudgingly taken her in, and attempted to sell the horse to keep funds up, however, the foal had repeatedly escaped and returned to Linda, so the orphanage had hired some builders to build a stable for the horse, allowing Linda to keep it under the condition that she allowed the other orphans to ride it as well.
The books on the other hand, had been locked away from her. The common opinion of the day was that orphans were all stupid, which Linda, if she weren't one herself, would have wholeheartedly agreed with. The kids around here were thick. However, Linda, who had been taught to read by a more sympathetic member of the staff, was a vibrant, intelligent person, but she was still forbidden from reading the books.
In all the time she'd owned the horse, she'd never once thought to give it a name. Anything suggested hadn't fit.
Back to the story, Linda decided that while it was night time she could steal the books. She was getting sick of the orphanage anyway, and she had the perfect getaway.
Changing her clothes and packing them into the saddlebag she kept under her bed at all times. Depositing it just outside with the horse, she ran to where she knew the books were hidden and picked the lock, using her sensitive long Hylian ears (which had been a point of ridicule when she'd been younger) to listen out for anyone who might be up.
The wall safe where the books were stored swung open, revealing a pile of books. Grabbing them, she headed back to the saddlebag, quickly put it on her horse, opened the gate and galloped off into the night.
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In the morning, Linda was under a tree, reading through the books. She was rather disappointed that they appeared to be diaries, when she'd been expecting some big secret. The person who had written them (who seemed to be a man) talked about a 'legacy' of some sort. Flicking through the most recent book, she found a letter addressed to her from her mother. It explained why she had been left at an orphanage, and (to her shock), that she was the last descendent of a hero who had saved not one, but two worlds.
Eventually, tiredness overwhelmed her and she fell asleep.
She was woken by the soft nose of a horse nuzzling her face.
"Are you alright?" asked a female voice,
Stirring, Linda looked up, and promptly jumped to her feet as she recognised the person sitting on the white horse in front of her,
"Your majesty!" she curtsied, her head bowed low, "Excuse me, I didn't mean to be rude or anything, I was just-" she stammered, eyes locked on the floor,
"Please, call me Zelda," the woman on the horse said, dismounting elegantly, "And there's no need for the ceremony either," she dipped down so she could look at Linda's face, which was hidden by her hair, "What's your name?"
"L-Linda," Linda said nervously, still not looking at the Princess,
"It's a very pretty name," Zelda said encouragingly, before looking at the pile of books near where Linda's horse was sleeping, "Are those yours?"
"Um, yes," Linda said quietly, completely overwhelmed by the informality of the situation, plus the fact that the Princess of the Kingdom was actually talking to her! She didn't know much about Zelda except that she was the same age as Linda.
Zelda flicked through the book Linda had been reading before she fell asleep, and gasped in shock as she read the letter Linda's mother had written, which (unbeknownst to Linda) had the royal seal on it, which signified the truth in the words written.
"Linda, you're the last in the Hero's line aren't you?" Zelda asked, placing the book down on the floor, her brown hair framing her elfin face,
Linda replied despondently, "That's what the letter said... I've, been having these dreams, of a battle, from a long time ago... I don't want to be like that, I don't want to fight, or kill, or..." she started sobbing,
Zelda, in royal garb no less, did what she thought was natural, and hugged the sobbing girl until the crying ceased.
Chapter One
The cries of battle raged on, as swords clashed and blood was spilled. In the chaos of the battle, none noticed as an armoured individual, a determined look in his eyes as he forced his blade into that of his enemy. With a satisfied smirk he span around, slashing the long blade around to clear the area. Jumping in the air, he plunged his sword into the chest of his enemy, watching as he died. As he span around to meet his next opponent, he felt a fatal blow as a sword ripped through his back, and he fell into the inviting embrace of death...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
She woke in a cold sweat, gasping for breath as she sat bolt upright in her bed. She looked around her dark dorm room, staring uneasily through the gloom, listening to the other orphans breath easily in their sleep. This was the sixth night in a row that the strange dream had haunted her and she didn't understand why. She wasn't a violent person, so the dreams of battle and blood-lust were shocking to her.
Her name was Linda, and as far as she and the orphanage staff were concerned, she had lived in the orphanage in Castle Town all her life. Now seventeen years old, she was the oldest orphan in the orphanage and would soon have to leave.
Linda didn't know much about herself except that she'd been found on the doorstep of the orphanage with a lot of books, a letter with her name on it and a young foal. The orphanage had grudgingly taken her in, and attempted to sell the horse to keep funds up, however, the foal had repeatedly escaped and returned to Linda, so the orphanage had hired some builders to build a stable for the horse, allowing Linda to keep it under the condition that she allowed the other orphans to ride it as well.
The books on the other hand, had been locked away from her. The common opinion of the day was that orphans were all stupid, which Linda, if she weren't one herself, would have wholeheartedly agreed with. The kids around here were thick. However, Linda, who had been taught to read by a more sympathetic member of the staff, was a vibrant, intelligent person, but she was still forbidden from reading the books.
In all the time she'd owned the horse, she'd never once thought to give it a name. Anything suggested hadn't fit.
Back to the story, Linda decided that while it was night time she could steal the books. She was getting sick of the orphanage anyway, and she had the perfect getaway.
Changing her clothes and packing them into the saddlebag she kept under her bed at all times. Depositing it just outside with the horse, she ran to where she knew the books were hidden and picked the lock, using her sensitive long Hylian ears (which had been a point of ridicule when she'd been younger) to listen out for anyone who might be up.
The wall safe where the books were stored swung open, revealing a pile of books. Grabbing them, she headed back to the saddlebag, quickly put it on her horse, opened the gate and galloped off into the night.
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In the morning, Linda was under a tree, reading through the books. She was rather disappointed that they appeared to be diaries, when she'd been expecting some big secret. The person who had written them (who seemed to be a man) talked about a 'legacy' of some sort. Flicking through the most recent book, she found a letter addressed to her from her mother. It explained why she had been left at an orphanage, and (to her shock), that she was the last descendent of a hero who had saved not one, but two worlds.
Eventually, tiredness overwhelmed her and she fell asleep.
She was woken by the soft nose of a horse nuzzling her face.
"Are you alright?" asked a female voice,
Stirring, Linda looked up, and promptly jumped to her feet as she recognised the person sitting on the white horse in front of her,
"Your majesty!" she curtsied, her head bowed low, "Excuse me, I didn't mean to be rude or anything, I was just-" she stammered, eyes locked on the floor,
"Please, call me Zelda," the woman on the horse said, dismounting elegantly, "And there's no need for the ceremony either," she dipped down so she could look at Linda's face, which was hidden by her hair, "What's your name?"
"L-Linda," Linda said nervously, still not looking at the Princess,
"It's a very pretty name," Zelda said encouragingly, before looking at the pile of books near where Linda's horse was sleeping, "Are those yours?"
"Um, yes," Linda said quietly, completely overwhelmed by the informality of the situation, plus the fact that the Princess of the Kingdom was actually talking to her! She didn't know much about Zelda except that she was the same age as Linda.
Zelda flicked through the book Linda had been reading before she fell asleep, and gasped in shock as she read the letter Linda's mother had written, which (unbeknownst to Linda) had the royal seal on it, which signified the truth in the words written.
"Linda, you're the last in the Hero's line aren't you?" Zelda asked, placing the book down on the floor, her brown hair framing her elfin face,
Linda replied despondently, "That's what the letter said... I've, been having these dreams, of a battle, from a long time ago... I don't want to be like that, I don't want to fight, or kill, or..." she started sobbing,
Zelda, in royal garb no less, did what she thought was natural, and hugged the sobbing girl until the crying ceased.
Chapter Two Spoiler:
"The story so far: In the beginning the Universe was created. This has made a lot of people very angry and has been widely regarded as a bad move." - the Restaurant at the End of the Universe, the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
The two girls were sitting under the tree discussing their collective history. Zelda, who had been schooled in this from a young age, knew a lot about her family's relationship with the Hero's line;
"The Hero of Time was the first member of your family we knew about, but a couple of generations ago we met another from your line from the Ordona province, who saved the country from a veil of Twilight, though I'm not sure what that means exactly,"
Linda didn't have much to contribute, "I don't know much except what I learned at the orphanage, which wasn't much, it was kind of glossed over because the teacher didn't think it was important," she sighed, and slumped back against the tree,
Zelda smoothed her dress, looking at the taller girl, "Well, for you it is very important," she looked through the books again, and re-read the letter Linda's mother had written, and looking through another book, found another piece of paper with a message written in archaic runes, "You told me you were found with a message with your name on it right?"
"Yes," Linda said, staring out at Hyrule Field in front of her,
Zelda passed the paper to her, "I didn't know they taught Old Hylian,"
"They didn't, I can't read this," Linda looked at the Princess, "Why?"
"Well, this doesn't say Linda, I assume they could only partially translate it, but from what I understand your name should be closer to Alynnedé," Zelda told her,
The name stirred a memory within Linda, "It sounds... familiar, and better than Linda, a lot better,"
Zelda nodded, "It means beautiful one," she smiled as Linda blushed profusely, and sympathetically changed the subject, "They'll be expecting me back at the castle soon, do you want to come with me?"
Linda, not wanting to be parted with the first friend she had made since the last one was adopted, and curious about her own history, agreed, "Let me just put these books away and then I'll follow you up,"
"Alright, Alynnedé," Zelda said slyly, mounting her white horse,
Linda, not allowing herself to be baited, smiled impishly, "If you're going to insist on that, call me Lynn,"
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Linda, now Lynn in an attempt to re-establish her connection to her past, rode with renewed confidence through the streets of Castle Town.
This, coupled with the fact that she was following a mere few feet behind the crown princess was working the townsfolk into a bit of a bother. The children were in awe, some of the older ones heckling and asking if she were being escorted to her execution. Lynn brushed it off, she felt untouchable.
As they left the town and headed up the hill towards the castle, Zelda looked around apologetically, but Lynn just shook her head, smiling.
Reaching the castle, the two teenagers dismounted, Zelda telling one of the stable hands to look after Lynn's horse for her.
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Zelda led Lynn to the East Wing of the castle, where her apartments were located.
"Right, I'm going to have to speak to father about this, I'm not really allowed guests, but I'm sure he'll understand when he finds out who you are," Zelda chattered as she walked, "You can stay in this room," she stopped halfway down the corridor, "If you need me I'll usually be in my room at the end of the corridor there," she pointed down the corridor,
Lynn nodded, unaware that she'd attracted the attention of a guard, "Alright, I'll um, see you later then,"
"I'll be as quick as possible, I promise," Zelda smiled uneasily, "In the mean time, have a bath, or just a nap, just get comfortable," she hurried off, and Lynn, now seemingly alone opened the door and entered.
The guard who was stationed at the end of the corridor edged nervously towards the door, if that had been who he thought it was...
He hesitated at the door, before knocking. The door opened and Lynn leaned out, "Hello?"
"Linda?" the guard asked, an eyebrow raised, "It is you!"
Lynn was completely perplexed, "Uh, do I know you?"
"It's me, Colin, from the orphanage," said the guard, relaxing his grip on his spear, his chain mail clinking. He lifted his helmet with one hand, showing Lynn his face,
"Oh, now I remember you!" Lynn smiled, "You were the little blonde kid who got adopted about eight years ago right?"
"Yeah, you taught me how to ride a horse," Colin said, "Still not that confident on that score, but I've grown a lot," he smiled weakly,
"Yeah, you're huge now, last I saw you you were the smallest kid your age, how old are you now?" Lynn asked, squeezing Colin's bicep in bemusement,
"I'm sixteen now, old enough to work, and I should really get back to my post before the Guard Captain shows up. Why are you here?" he asked inquisitively,
"Searching for my past, turns out I'm descended from a Hero, Princess Zelda offered to help me find the information I need," Lynn told him,
"Yeah, the Princess is very eager to help people. She usually greets me in the mornings. It was a bit weird for the first few months but I got used to it. Anyway," Colin leaned back, looking up and down the corridor, "It's been nice seeing a familiar face, good luck with your search,"
"Thanks," Lynn said cheerfully, "Oh, and for future reference, it's Lynn now," she said, before closing the door. She sat down in one of the empty chairs, looking around. She just couldn't get over how clean everything was. As someone raised in the squalor of a cheaply run orphanage, it was rare she ever got to see a floor indoors that wasn't covered in a layer of dust and muck.
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When Zelda returned, Lynn answered the door feeling a lot fresher than she had in a long time, "Hello," she said, smiling good-naturedly, her face falling when she saw Zelda's rather dejected expression,
"Father wants to see you, he doesn't seem happy about you being here," Zelda was refusing to make eye contact,
"Why?" Lynn asked, her eyes wide, searching,
The young princess just shook her head, "I don't know, just, come with me,"
"Alright..." Lynn was feeling nervous again. She'd only just got used to being around Zelda, who, as a royal, was incredibly (and weirdly) informal and friendly. The King wasn't known as a harsh or cruel man, but meeting someone of much higher status to herself freaked Lynn out, and that was without the fact that her presence was unwanted.
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Reaching the throne room, Zelda stopped Lynn, "Be polite, I'll try and back you up here, don't say anything unless spoken to, and ignore my brother," she rolled her eyes to the heavens at the mention of the Prince, "He's a mite pigheaded,"
"Alright," Lynn replied, her voice no more than a whisper, why did they have to do this now?
"Are you okay?" Zelda asked, her voice one of concern,
"I'll be fine," Lynn braced herself mentally,
Zelda gave her a final glance before opening the doors.
Chapter Two
The two girls were sitting under the tree discussing their collective history. Zelda, who had been schooled in this from a young age, knew a lot about her family's relationship with the Hero's line;
"The Hero of Time was the first member of your family we knew about, but a couple of generations ago we met another from your line from the Ordona province, who saved the country from a veil of Twilight, though I'm not sure what that means exactly,"
Linda didn't have much to contribute, "I don't know much except what I learned at the orphanage, which wasn't much, it was kind of glossed over because the teacher didn't think it was important," she sighed, and slumped back against the tree,
Zelda smoothed her dress, looking at the taller girl, "Well, for you it is very important," she looked through the books again, and re-read the letter Linda's mother had written, and looking through another book, found another piece of paper with a message written in archaic runes, "You told me you were found with a message with your name on it right?"
"Yes," Linda said, staring out at Hyrule Field in front of her,
Zelda passed the paper to her, "I didn't know they taught Old Hylian,"
"They didn't, I can't read this," Linda looked at the Princess, "Why?"
"Well, this doesn't say Linda, I assume they could only partially translate it, but from what I understand your name should be closer to Alynnedé," Zelda told her,
The name stirred a memory within Linda, "It sounds... familiar, and better than Linda, a lot better,"
Zelda nodded, "It means beautiful one," she smiled as Linda blushed profusely, and sympathetically changed the subject, "They'll be expecting me back at the castle soon, do you want to come with me?"
Linda, not wanting to be parted with the first friend she had made since the last one was adopted, and curious about her own history, agreed, "Let me just put these books away and then I'll follow you up,"
"Alright, Alynnedé," Zelda said slyly, mounting her white horse,
Linda, not allowing herself to be baited, smiled impishly, "If you're going to insist on that, call me Lynn,"
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Linda, now Lynn in an attempt to re-establish her connection to her past, rode with renewed confidence through the streets of Castle Town.
This, coupled with the fact that she was following a mere few feet behind the crown princess was working the townsfolk into a bit of a bother. The children were in awe, some of the older ones heckling and asking if she were being escorted to her execution. Lynn brushed it off, she felt untouchable.
As they left the town and headed up the hill towards the castle, Zelda looked around apologetically, but Lynn just shook her head, smiling.
Reaching the castle, the two teenagers dismounted, Zelda telling one of the stable hands to look after Lynn's horse for her.
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Zelda led Lynn to the East Wing of the castle, where her apartments were located.
"Right, I'm going to have to speak to father about this, I'm not really allowed guests, but I'm sure he'll understand when he finds out who you are," Zelda chattered as she walked, "You can stay in this room," she stopped halfway down the corridor, "If you need me I'll usually be in my room at the end of the corridor there," she pointed down the corridor,
Lynn nodded, unaware that she'd attracted the attention of a guard, "Alright, I'll um, see you later then,"
"I'll be as quick as possible, I promise," Zelda smiled uneasily, "In the mean time, have a bath, or just a nap, just get comfortable," she hurried off, and Lynn, now seemingly alone opened the door and entered.
The guard who was stationed at the end of the corridor edged nervously towards the door, if that had been who he thought it was...
He hesitated at the door, before knocking. The door opened and Lynn leaned out, "Hello?"
"Linda?" the guard asked, an eyebrow raised, "It is you!"
Lynn was completely perplexed, "Uh, do I know you?"
"It's me, Colin, from the orphanage," said the guard, relaxing his grip on his spear, his chain mail clinking. He lifted his helmet with one hand, showing Lynn his face,
"Oh, now I remember you!" Lynn smiled, "You were the little blonde kid who got adopted about eight years ago right?"
"Yeah, you taught me how to ride a horse," Colin said, "Still not that confident on that score, but I've grown a lot," he smiled weakly,
"Yeah, you're huge now, last I saw you you were the smallest kid your age, how old are you now?" Lynn asked, squeezing Colin's bicep in bemusement,
"I'm sixteen now, old enough to work, and I should really get back to my post before the Guard Captain shows up. Why are you here?" he asked inquisitively,
"Searching for my past, turns out I'm descended from a Hero, Princess Zelda offered to help me find the information I need," Lynn told him,
"Yeah, the Princess is very eager to help people. She usually greets me in the mornings. It was a bit weird for the first few months but I got used to it. Anyway," Colin leaned back, looking up and down the corridor, "It's been nice seeing a familiar face, good luck with your search,"
"Thanks," Lynn said cheerfully, "Oh, and for future reference, it's Lynn now," she said, before closing the door. She sat down in one of the empty chairs, looking around. She just couldn't get over how clean everything was. As someone raised in the squalor of a cheaply run orphanage, it was rare she ever got to see a floor indoors that wasn't covered in a layer of dust and muck.
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When Zelda returned, Lynn answered the door feeling a lot fresher than she had in a long time, "Hello," she said, smiling good-naturedly, her face falling when she saw Zelda's rather dejected expression,
"Father wants to see you, he doesn't seem happy about you being here," Zelda was refusing to make eye contact,
"Why?" Lynn asked, her eyes wide, searching,
The young princess just shook her head, "I don't know, just, come with me,"
"Alright..." Lynn was feeling nervous again. She'd only just got used to being around Zelda, who, as a royal, was incredibly (and weirdly) informal and friendly. The King wasn't known as a harsh or cruel man, but meeting someone of much higher status to herself freaked Lynn out, and that was without the fact that her presence was unwanted.
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Reaching the throne room, Zelda stopped Lynn, "Be polite, I'll try and back you up here, don't say anything unless spoken to, and ignore my brother," she rolled her eyes to the heavens at the mention of the Prince, "He's a mite pigheaded,"
"Alright," Lynn replied, her voice no more than a whisper, why did they have to do this now?
"Are you okay?" Zelda asked, her voice one of concern,
"I'll be fine," Lynn braced herself mentally,
Zelda gave her a final glance before opening the doors.
Chapter Three Spoiler:
"The major problem — one of the major problems, for there are several — one of the many major problems with governing people is that of whom you get to do it; or rather of who manages to get people to let them do it to them.
To summarize: it is a well known fact that those people who most want to rule people are, ipso facto, those least suited to do it. To summarize the summary: anyone who is capable of getting themselves made President should on no account be allowed to do the job. To summarize the summary of the summary: people are a problem." - the Restaurant at the End of the Universe, the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
The two girls entered the throne room. Zelda, regal as ever, remained composed as she strolled towards the king. Lynn on the other hand, was nervous and fidgeting, her face flushed a slight red.
Her father, King Daltus Hyrule, solemnly awaiting his daughters arrival, as well as that of her companion.
His son, Prince Nohan, lounged in his throne, smirking. This would be entertaining at least, and if not, well, Zelda's new friend was attractive.
As they reached the thrones, Lynn bowed her head, unaware that she was hiding her face behind her hair. Zelda curtsied as she greeted her father, and introduced Lynn.
"Father, this is the person I was telling you about, the last of the Hero's line. Her name is Alynnedé and-"
Nohan chuckled, "Hero? This little girl? Ha," he shouted extravagantly and scornfully, waving his hand dismissively, sitting upright in his throne,
Lynn winced at his words, but didn't look up.
Daltus cleared his throat, glaring at his son, "Nohan! Show some respect, you shouldn't judge on appearance alone," he turned to Lynn, and smiled encouragingly, though she didn't see, "Now, Alynnedé, I don't want to have to tell you this, but your presence here troubles me,"
Lynn finally plucked up the courage to look up, "Troubles you, your majesty? But I'm just an orphan..." she trailed off, looking down again,
Daltus cleared his throat again, a little uneasily, he hated this part of the job, "What I meant to say is, that whenever one of your family shows up in Hyrule Castle, trouble is usually not far behind,"
"Father, that's not fair!" Zelda stepped forward, coming to Lynn's rescue, "You know as well as I do that the Hero's line has only appeared when it was needed to stop any trouble. And you should also know, that whenever a child is born into the family with this on her hand," she removed one of her silk gloves, brandishing the back of her hand towards her father, "That they're likely to be involved. That is, after all, why I was named Zelda," she finished, smiling,
Lynn looked up, and while she couldn't see what was on Zelda's hand, she saw that the King was speechless, and Nohan was looking at the hand in, what? Jealousy? It looked more like hunger...
Finally, Daltus found words to say, "What are you asking of me Zelda? That I let the child stay?"
"Yes, and allow her to find out about her past and study methods of survival, in case she is needed," Zelda said, putting her glove back on,
Daltus sighed, "Fine, Alynnedé," the teenager looked up at him, her sky blue eyes wide and fearful, "You are an honoured guest in my castle. You may, as Zelda has suggested, peruse the Hyrule family archive to find the information you are searching for. You are also encouraged to learn the ways of your family, how to fight and survive. If your services are required, you will be summoned, now, Zelda, Alynnedé, leave us,"
Nohan sniggered as the two girls left the throne room.
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"Well, that could have gone better," Zelda said sourly, as the walked back to her apartments,
"What? How?" Lynn asked, stopping,
"Well, father's word is law, and he just said you could never leave in case you're needed," Zelda explained,
"And I told you that I don't want to kill people," Lynn said hotly,
"Lynn, fighting doesn't necessitate killing, and you have to learn how to survive," Zelda looked at her, her sea blue eyes hardened,
Lynn held her gaze before faltering, "Alright, fine. What's on the back of your hand?"
Zelda removed her glove again, before showing Lynn her left hand, "The mark of the Goddesses," she smiled thinly,
Sitting in the centre of her hand was a birthmark in the shape of three triangles, two holding up a third. The bottom left triangle pulsed, glowing golden.
"The Triforce of Wisdom grants me great knowledge, which can be a burden. Since the Hero of Time, every few generations a Princess will be born with this. As a recurring motif, a Hero will appear, usually in the possession of the Triforce of Courage," she pointed to the bottom right triangle, "To fight an evil who has been in possession of the Triforce of Power," she pointed to the top triangle, "In retrospect, both times that evil appeared it was the same person, granted immortality through greed. But he's been killed for good now,"
"Alright, but why was the Prince looking at you so strangely?" Lynn asked, brushing a stray strand of blonde hair out of her eyes,
"He might be older, but I was born with the Triforce," Zelda replied, "He's not used to being told he can't have things, he's a spoilt impudent scoundrel. He'll do no good as the monarch," she finished shortly, before continuing the march to her apartments,
Lynn ran to catch up, slowing after a few strides as she drew level with the Princess, "You think he'll do more harm than good?"
"You saw what he's like Lynn, he has a narrow view of the world. He thinks the people are his playthings and if he wants something he'll get it. Thankfully I was granted a little more humility and self-control. He will lead this country to ruin, and if by some miracle he dies before he has children, even I wouldn't be able to drag Hyrule out of the darkness," Zelda said bitterly, lifting her skirts a little to increase her speed.
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As they reached Lynn's room, Zelda said, "I'll speak to the Guard Captain, I'm sure he'll be willing to teach you some basic sword combat. I'll have some maids sent up here to outfit you with more appropriate clothing. That'll take a while though, so you can go and look in the library, see if you can find any information on your family, I should be back in about an hour,"
"Right, what do you mean 'outfit' me? I'm not going to have to wear a suit of armour am I?" Lynn asked, eyebrow raised,
"No, I think we'll find you more appropriate clothing than clunky armour. Your ancestors had a very distinctive clothing style, we'll try and replicate that for you, alright," Zelda said warmly,
"Okay, but one thing, you said a Hero will appear with the Triforce of Courage, but, I don't," Lynn said, pointing at her unmarked wrist,
"A mark of a hero is bravery. When the time comes, it may well be you that is marked above the rest," Zelda said mysteriously, before departing.
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Half an hour later, Lynn was in the library. She'd found nothing except an incomplete family tree, which had last been updated around twenty years ago. The family had branched off, and these branches had usually died out or disappeared, aside from the direct line, which finished on one specific point (and also contained a couple of people with the same name). The last generation recorded consisted of only one child, someone named 'Dyllan', and though Lynn had her theories, there was no evidence to prove that this Dyllan character was her father, and the lack of birthdate put a damper on things. Making a detailed and accurate copy of the family tree in a notebook, Lynn kept on searching.
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She was still searching when Zelda arrived, "Any luck?"
Lynn shook her head, "Not enough that I know what to look for,"
"Well, I organised the lessons, and the maids are ready. I even managed to get hold of the head seamstress. She's usually charged with making royal clothing, but she was up for the challenge," Zelda said, motioning for Lynn to follow her.
As they walked, Lynn piped up, "Hey Zelda?"
"Hmm?"
"The books I was found with, why did no one tell me about my lineage, or even try to sell them off?"
"The books had a couple of simple spells on them. The first was to make the books impossible for outsiders to read unless you want them to, which would make them essentially worthless, but the second spell compelled them to store the books away. If the books were separated before you had read them, they will be drawn back to each other. I picked them up when I came across the books but didn't think to mention it," Zelda said, blushing slightly.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back in Lynn's room, Lynn had her arms raised horizontally as the expert seamstress took many precise measurements.
"For these clothes you'll want practicality, but you'll also want decency. It doesn't do for a girl to be running around in a tunic and tights these days. I'll stay as true to the original design as I can, but I'll add whatever extras I deem appropriate," she explained as she took the length of Lynn's arm span,
"Thank you very much," Zelda said politely, "Can I make an addition or two?"
"By all means your majesty," the seamstress told her, smiling tenderly,
"Lynn, which hand do you use?"
Lynn fidgeted a little as a pin scratched lightly against her skin, "I use my left,"
Zelda nodded, "Right, well, I've asked the royal armourer to forge a shoulder plate to this design," she showed the seamstress a drawing she had made on some parchment, which Lynn couldn't see, "If you could pick that up tomorrow, that'll be fantastic,"
The seamstress studied the design on the parchment, "I like it, and it works great if her right is to be her shield arm. Anything else?"
Zelda considered this for a moment, before brightening, "Yes, there is one more touch, I can't believe I almost forgot!" she rummaged through some of the frankly ancient images of Lynn's more prolific ancestors, which was littered with design sketches and notes, until she found what she was looking for. She handed it to the seamstress,
"Ah yes, can't be doing without that," she chuckled. Lynn just wondered what it was and when she could put her arms down.
To summarize: it is a well known fact that those people who most want to rule people are, ipso facto, those least suited to do it. To summarize the summary: anyone who is capable of getting themselves made President should on no account be allowed to do the job. To summarize the summary of the summary: people are a problem." - the Restaurant at the End of the Universe, the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Chapter Three
The two girls entered the throne room. Zelda, regal as ever, remained composed as she strolled towards the king. Lynn on the other hand, was nervous and fidgeting, her face flushed a slight red.
Her father, King Daltus Hyrule, solemnly awaiting his daughters arrival, as well as that of her companion.
His son, Prince Nohan, lounged in his throne, smirking. This would be entertaining at least, and if not, well, Zelda's new friend was attractive.
As they reached the thrones, Lynn bowed her head, unaware that she was hiding her face behind her hair. Zelda curtsied as she greeted her father, and introduced Lynn.
"Father, this is the person I was telling you about, the last of the Hero's line. Her name is Alynnedé and-"
Nohan chuckled, "Hero? This little girl? Ha," he shouted extravagantly and scornfully, waving his hand dismissively, sitting upright in his throne,
Lynn winced at his words, but didn't look up.
Daltus cleared his throat, glaring at his son, "Nohan! Show some respect, you shouldn't judge on appearance alone," he turned to Lynn, and smiled encouragingly, though she didn't see, "Now, Alynnedé, I don't want to have to tell you this, but your presence here troubles me,"
Lynn finally plucked up the courage to look up, "Troubles you, your majesty? But I'm just an orphan..." she trailed off, looking down again,
Daltus cleared his throat again, a little uneasily, he hated this part of the job, "What I meant to say is, that whenever one of your family shows up in Hyrule Castle, trouble is usually not far behind,"
"Father, that's not fair!" Zelda stepped forward, coming to Lynn's rescue, "You know as well as I do that the Hero's line has only appeared when it was needed to stop any trouble. And you should also know, that whenever a child is born into the family with this on her hand," she removed one of her silk gloves, brandishing the back of her hand towards her father, "That they're likely to be involved. That is, after all, why I was named Zelda," she finished, smiling,
Lynn looked up, and while she couldn't see what was on Zelda's hand, she saw that the King was speechless, and Nohan was looking at the hand in, what? Jealousy? It looked more like hunger...
Finally, Daltus found words to say, "What are you asking of me Zelda? That I let the child stay?"
"Yes, and allow her to find out about her past and study methods of survival, in case she is needed," Zelda said, putting her glove back on,
Daltus sighed, "Fine, Alynnedé," the teenager looked up at him, her sky blue eyes wide and fearful, "You are an honoured guest in my castle. You may, as Zelda has suggested, peruse the Hyrule family archive to find the information you are searching for. You are also encouraged to learn the ways of your family, how to fight and survive. If your services are required, you will be summoned, now, Zelda, Alynnedé, leave us,"
Nohan sniggered as the two girls left the throne room.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Well, that could have gone better," Zelda said sourly, as the walked back to her apartments,
"What? How?" Lynn asked, stopping,
"Well, father's word is law, and he just said you could never leave in case you're needed," Zelda explained,
"And I told you that I don't want to kill people," Lynn said hotly,
"Lynn, fighting doesn't necessitate killing, and you have to learn how to survive," Zelda looked at her, her sea blue eyes hardened,
Lynn held her gaze before faltering, "Alright, fine. What's on the back of your hand?"
Zelda removed her glove again, before showing Lynn her left hand, "The mark of the Goddesses," she smiled thinly,
Sitting in the centre of her hand was a birthmark in the shape of three triangles, two holding up a third. The bottom left triangle pulsed, glowing golden.
"The Triforce of Wisdom grants me great knowledge, which can be a burden. Since the Hero of Time, every few generations a Princess will be born with this. As a recurring motif, a Hero will appear, usually in the possession of the Triforce of Courage," she pointed to the bottom right triangle, "To fight an evil who has been in possession of the Triforce of Power," she pointed to the top triangle, "In retrospect, both times that evil appeared it was the same person, granted immortality through greed. But he's been killed for good now,"
"Alright, but why was the Prince looking at you so strangely?" Lynn asked, brushing a stray strand of blonde hair out of her eyes,
"He might be older, but I was born with the Triforce," Zelda replied, "He's not used to being told he can't have things, he's a spoilt impudent scoundrel. He'll do no good as the monarch," she finished shortly, before continuing the march to her apartments,
Lynn ran to catch up, slowing after a few strides as she drew level with the Princess, "You think he'll do more harm than good?"
"You saw what he's like Lynn, he has a narrow view of the world. He thinks the people are his playthings and if he wants something he'll get it. Thankfully I was granted a little more humility and self-control. He will lead this country to ruin, and if by some miracle he dies before he has children, even I wouldn't be able to drag Hyrule out of the darkness," Zelda said bitterly, lifting her skirts a little to increase her speed.
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As they reached Lynn's room, Zelda said, "I'll speak to the Guard Captain, I'm sure he'll be willing to teach you some basic sword combat. I'll have some maids sent up here to outfit you with more appropriate clothing. That'll take a while though, so you can go and look in the library, see if you can find any information on your family, I should be back in about an hour,"
"Right, what do you mean 'outfit' me? I'm not going to have to wear a suit of armour am I?" Lynn asked, eyebrow raised,
"No, I think we'll find you more appropriate clothing than clunky armour. Your ancestors had a very distinctive clothing style, we'll try and replicate that for you, alright," Zelda said warmly,
"Okay, but one thing, you said a Hero will appear with the Triforce of Courage, but, I don't," Lynn said, pointing at her unmarked wrist,
"A mark of a hero is bravery. When the time comes, it may well be you that is marked above the rest," Zelda said mysteriously, before departing.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Half an hour later, Lynn was in the library. She'd found nothing except an incomplete family tree, which had last been updated around twenty years ago. The family had branched off, and these branches had usually died out or disappeared, aside from the direct line, which finished on one specific point (and also contained a couple of people with the same name). The last generation recorded consisted of only one child, someone named 'Dyllan', and though Lynn had her theories, there was no evidence to prove that this Dyllan character was her father, and the lack of birthdate put a damper on things. Making a detailed and accurate copy of the family tree in a notebook, Lynn kept on searching.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
She was still searching when Zelda arrived, "Any luck?"
Lynn shook her head, "Not enough that I know what to look for,"
"Well, I organised the lessons, and the maids are ready. I even managed to get hold of the head seamstress. She's usually charged with making royal clothing, but she was up for the challenge," Zelda said, motioning for Lynn to follow her.
As they walked, Lynn piped up, "Hey Zelda?"
"Hmm?"
"The books I was found with, why did no one tell me about my lineage, or even try to sell them off?"
"The books had a couple of simple spells on them. The first was to make the books impossible for outsiders to read unless you want them to, which would make them essentially worthless, but the second spell compelled them to store the books away. If the books were separated before you had read them, they will be drawn back to each other. I picked them up when I came across the books but didn't think to mention it," Zelda said, blushing slightly.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back in Lynn's room, Lynn had her arms raised horizontally as the expert seamstress took many precise measurements.
"For these clothes you'll want practicality, but you'll also want decency. It doesn't do for a girl to be running around in a tunic and tights these days. I'll stay as true to the original design as I can, but I'll add whatever extras I deem appropriate," she explained as she took the length of Lynn's arm span,
"Thank you very much," Zelda said politely, "Can I make an addition or two?"
"By all means your majesty," the seamstress told her, smiling tenderly,
"Lynn, which hand do you use?"
Lynn fidgeted a little as a pin scratched lightly against her skin, "I use my left,"
Zelda nodded, "Right, well, I've asked the royal armourer to forge a shoulder plate to this design," she showed the seamstress a drawing she had made on some parchment, which Lynn couldn't see, "If you could pick that up tomorrow, that'll be fantastic,"
The seamstress studied the design on the parchment, "I like it, and it works great if her right is to be her shield arm. Anything else?"
Zelda considered this for a moment, before brightening, "Yes, there is one more touch, I can't believe I almost forgot!" she rummaged through some of the frankly ancient images of Lynn's more prolific ancestors, which was littered with design sketches and notes, until she found what she was looking for. She handed it to the seamstress,
"Ah yes, can't be doing without that," she chuckled. Lynn just wondered what it was and when she could put her arms down.
Chapter Four Spoiler:
"I'm the best there is at what I do. What I do best isn't very nice." - Wolverine, X-Men Origins: Wolverine
"Are you sure about this?" Lynn asked, glancing at Zelda,
"Yes, it's fine, it allows for manoeuvrability, flexibility and I think you look nice in it," Zelda said, motioning for Lynn to turn around,
"Fine, but does it have to be so... green?" Lynn looked at the tunic she wore, feeling the coolness of the chain-mail she wore over a white under shirt. Her waist was held in a brown belt, buckled with a Triforce emblem. Her tunic, contained in a loose-fitting corset to prevent unnecessary swaying, split off at the centre, becoming skirt-like. Her wrists were contained with tough leather gauntlets, her thin, delicate hands in fingerless gloves. On her right shoulder, and strapped around her upper torso, was a metal shoulder plate, which covered the upper portion of her arm, also had a Triforce emblem on it. On her legs she wore black, tight-fitting shorts and tights, which were tightly bandaged for what appeared to be purely aesthetic purposes. Basic, sturdy brown boots finished the display, along with the final touch; a waist-length green hat, with a yellow motif sown in. Under this, her hair fell to her shoulders.
"It's green because past heroes have worn green," Zelda smiled, "And it suits you," she straightened her skirt,
"And I got the earring because...?" Lynn asked, gesturing at the blue ring in her left ear,
"A rite of passage your family goes through, signifies adulthood," Zelda smirked, "As an added plus, it makes you look tougher," she giggled softly as she said this,
Lynn looked at her reflection in a full-length mirror. I could get used to this, she thought, and she's right, I do look sort of tough, but in a good way.
"Alright, so, what now?" Lynn asked, turning to the Princess,
"How about we take a walk around the castle grounds before your first lesson, get you used to the clothes, get some fresh air into your lungs," Zelda suggested,
"I could do with a stretch, no offence, but I don't think I could stand living in a place this size," Lynn said, smiling,
"I know what you mean, it drives me mad sometimes," Zelda smiled back,
The two girls made their way outside into the Castle gardens.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the gardens, Lynn yawned, "You know, in the morning, it really is quite beautiful," she said, admiring the view the gardens had of the kingdom, an endless desert to one side, and a sparkling lake to the other.
"Heh, yes," Zelda smiled, looking at her friend,
"What have we here? Thinking of doing something sinful Zelly?" a familiar, unwanted voice drawled,
Zelda winced at her unwelcome nickname, "What do you want Nohan?"
Her elder brother sauntered over, "I hear the little Hero is studying sword combat. Wouldn't you be better off in the kitchen away from the men's work?" he taunted, his voice laced with scorn,
"Leave her alone!" Zelda stood, her hands balled into fists,
"Don't try it Wise girl, you might have your precious triangles," his eyes flashed dangerously, "But, as a woman, your tiny mind can't possibly comprehend the complex man's work that being in charge involves," he stepped forward, towering over the small Princess, "You will never run this country. After father dies, I will take over. Following next week's ball I will have a bride, and she will fulfil her only purpose in life by providing me with sons, who will take my place after I grow old. There is no place for women in politics, just sit quiet and look pretty, because that's all you're good fo-" Nohan was promptly stopped mid-rant by a fist connecting with his nose. The force behind it made him step back a few steps in bewilderment in bewilderment before falling down on his rump, staining his pristine clothes in the grass,
Lynn uncurled her fist, "Shut up, and leave her alone," she said coldly, glaring at the stunned figure on the ground, his usually coiffed blonde hair messy and unkempt. Lynn looked at the growing patch of damp in between his legs, and scoffed, "Wow, you're an even bigger wimp than I thought you were,"
Nohan, looking at his legs, squealed like the little pig that he is and ran away, "I'll get you for this!" he sobbed,
Lynn watched him go before turning to the Princess, who had tears running down her face, "Hey, are you alright?"
Zelda sniffed, "Yes, thanks, for that. He deserved it," she tried to smile, but tears kept falling.
Lynn just hugged the shorter girl, "Well, don't worry, the way he reacted he won't be telling anybody about it, bad enough that he got beaten in one punch from a girl, but that he wet himself afterwards? There is no way he'll ever bring that up," she held Zelda at arms length, "He's nothing but a bully, and I've learned from experience that bullies always get what's coming to them, okay?"
Zelda sniffed again, brushing a lock of golden brown hair out of her eyes, "Okay," she said wetly, smiling,
"Do you want to go back to your room?" Lynn asked, concerned,
Zelda shook her head, "I'll be fine, now come on, your lesson starts soon," she dabbed her eyes with a handkerchief, leading the way to the Guards quarters.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Alright, I won't pretend I've ever trained a girl in sword combat before, so I'll be blunt, I don't think you can do it, but if her majesty insists, then I shall give it my all, and I ask you to do the same," the captain of the Guard, Russell, told Lynn, "Now, take a sword from the rack, and try to hit me, you can try any method you like, but if I land three hits on you with this," he hefted his heavy spear, "We stop,"
Lynn went over to the sword rack and looked through the swords. Testing a few, she found that she understood each sword's faults, this was too heavy, another too unbalanced, until she found one that was just right.
Turning back to Russell, she held the sword loosely in her left hand, her legs already in a battle ready stance.
When Russell nodded for her to begin, she let gut instinct guide her, feinting a hit to the thigh before whipping it up to Russell's shoulder. But he was just as fast, dodging out of the way, surprisingly agile for a man his size. He rolled on the wet grass and sprang to his feet, facing Lynn.
Lynn span around, and ran in for another attack. Swinging the blade in a wide arc, which narrowly missed the guard captain, Lynn span the sword around in her hand, holding the sword so the blade was behind her, and swung the sword towards Russell, which he barely dodged.
Lynn yelled out viciously, going in for another swing, which Russell blocked with his spear, before shoving her with it, which caused her to stop her onslaught and back away a little. Best not to end this too quickly.
The two circled each other for a while, Lynn not entirely sure what she should attempt next, should she attempt another attack? Or try something a little more devious? Noticing that Russell was focussing more on facing her so he could block or dodge her attacks, she quickly formulated a strategy. Using her natural athleticism and cunning, she ran towards Russell. The guard captain quickly readied his spear for a second strike when Lynn flipped right over him and smacked him with the flat of her sword on his back.
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"I guess you win then," Russell grunted as he picked himself up from the floor, rubbing his back,
Zelda, who had been watching from the fence of the training ring, clapped her hands, "Well done!"
Lynn dropped to the floor, gasping, "That was exhilarating,"
"You were a lot better than I expected, where did you learn to fight like that?" Russell asked, "Not once have I been bested in battle by a recruit," he said, but he said it cheerfully, as if proud,
"I don't know, once the sword was in my hand it was like instinct took over. I mean, I was always the most athletic when it came to games at the orphanage, but I've never done anything like that before," Lynn told him, laughing,
"You were right Princess," Russell laughed, "She is a natural,"
Zelda nodded, smiling. Lynn looked up at the Guard Captain, "What do you mean a natural?"
"I mean you're naturally adept at sword play. When training with swords, many are clunky, mechanical, but watching you was like watching a dancer. The sword moved like it was an extension of your being, and you were fast, almost unbelievably so. You were performing moves naturally that take lots of people weeks to learn," he helped the teenager up, "Yeah, after a few lessons even I won't have anything to teach you," Russell chuckled,
Lynn couldn't believe the praise she was receiving, and flushed with pride, which was greeted with Russell pinching her long ear.
"But don't go getting a big head, you have a long way to go before you become a true Sword Master," Russell let go of her ear, "Next time, we'll begin training with the shield," he walked off, as Lynn rubbed her ear, "Same time tomorrow!" he shouted over his shoulder.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zelda and Lynn walked back into the castle together, Lynn still massaging her ear, which had gone pink,
"He didn't have to pinch so hard..." she grumbled,
"Oh stop complaining," Zelda told her, "He just doesn't want you to think you're better than you are,"
Lynn shouldered her new sword belt, feeling the unnatural weight of the sword on her back, "I still wasn't expecting to be given the sword as a gift,"
"The way you moved, it was like you and the sword were made for each other," Zelda said dreamily, "It was beautiful, in a way..."
"Hmm," Lynn said distractedly, looking up at the castle. She'd had the feeling she was being watched, which was confirmed as she saw a pale person whip out of sight from one of the windows,
"...and Russell was right, it really was like a dance, and- hey! Are you listening?" Zelda asked, looking at Lynn, before following her gaze, "What is it?"
"Unfinished business," Lynn muttered, before brightening up, "Come on, you can help me search for more information. I'll race you!" she laughed before running off, Zelda trailing behind as she yelled, in a particularly unladylike manner, about the problems of wearing dresses, corsets and high heels while running.
Chapter Four
"Are you sure about this?" Lynn asked, glancing at Zelda,
"Yes, it's fine, it allows for manoeuvrability, flexibility and I think you look nice in it," Zelda said, motioning for Lynn to turn around,
"Fine, but does it have to be so... green?" Lynn looked at the tunic she wore, feeling the coolness of the chain-mail she wore over a white under shirt. Her waist was held in a brown belt, buckled with a Triforce emblem. Her tunic, contained in a loose-fitting corset to prevent unnecessary swaying, split off at the centre, becoming skirt-like. Her wrists were contained with tough leather gauntlets, her thin, delicate hands in fingerless gloves. On her right shoulder, and strapped around her upper torso, was a metal shoulder plate, which covered the upper portion of her arm, also had a Triforce emblem on it. On her legs she wore black, tight-fitting shorts and tights, which were tightly bandaged for what appeared to be purely aesthetic purposes. Basic, sturdy brown boots finished the display, along with the final touch; a waist-length green hat, with a yellow motif sown in. Under this, her hair fell to her shoulders.
"It's green because past heroes have worn green," Zelda smiled, "And it suits you," she straightened her skirt,
"And I got the earring because...?" Lynn asked, gesturing at the blue ring in her left ear,
"A rite of passage your family goes through, signifies adulthood," Zelda smirked, "As an added plus, it makes you look tougher," she giggled softly as she said this,
Lynn looked at her reflection in a full-length mirror. I could get used to this, she thought, and she's right, I do look sort of tough, but in a good way.
"Alright, so, what now?" Lynn asked, turning to the Princess,
"How about we take a walk around the castle grounds before your first lesson, get you used to the clothes, get some fresh air into your lungs," Zelda suggested,
"I could do with a stretch, no offence, but I don't think I could stand living in a place this size," Lynn said, smiling,
"I know what you mean, it drives me mad sometimes," Zelda smiled back,
The two girls made their way outside into the Castle gardens.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the gardens, Lynn yawned, "You know, in the morning, it really is quite beautiful," she said, admiring the view the gardens had of the kingdom, an endless desert to one side, and a sparkling lake to the other.
"Heh, yes," Zelda smiled, looking at her friend,
"What have we here? Thinking of doing something sinful Zelly?" a familiar, unwanted voice drawled,
Zelda winced at her unwelcome nickname, "What do you want Nohan?"
Her elder brother sauntered over, "I hear the little Hero is studying sword combat. Wouldn't you be better off in the kitchen away from the men's work?" he taunted, his voice laced with scorn,
"Leave her alone!" Zelda stood, her hands balled into fists,
"Don't try it Wise girl, you might have your precious triangles," his eyes flashed dangerously, "But, as a woman, your tiny mind can't possibly comprehend the complex man's work that being in charge involves," he stepped forward, towering over the small Princess, "You will never run this country. After father dies, I will take over. Following next week's ball I will have a bride, and she will fulfil her only purpose in life by providing me with sons, who will take my place after I grow old. There is no place for women in politics, just sit quiet and look pretty, because that's all you're good fo-" Nohan was promptly stopped mid-rant by a fist connecting with his nose. The force behind it made him step back a few steps in bewilderment in bewilderment before falling down on his rump, staining his pristine clothes in the grass,
Lynn uncurled her fist, "Shut up, and leave her alone," she said coldly, glaring at the stunned figure on the ground, his usually coiffed blonde hair messy and unkempt. Lynn looked at the growing patch of damp in between his legs, and scoffed, "Wow, you're an even bigger wimp than I thought you were,"
Nohan, looking at his legs, squealed like the little pig that he is and ran away, "I'll get you for this!" he sobbed,
Lynn watched him go before turning to the Princess, who had tears running down her face, "Hey, are you alright?"
Zelda sniffed, "Yes, thanks, for that. He deserved it," she tried to smile, but tears kept falling.
Lynn just hugged the shorter girl, "Well, don't worry, the way he reacted he won't be telling anybody about it, bad enough that he got beaten in one punch from a girl, but that he wet himself afterwards? There is no way he'll ever bring that up," she held Zelda at arms length, "He's nothing but a bully, and I've learned from experience that bullies always get what's coming to them, okay?"
Zelda sniffed again, brushing a lock of golden brown hair out of her eyes, "Okay," she said wetly, smiling,
"Do you want to go back to your room?" Lynn asked, concerned,
Zelda shook her head, "I'll be fine, now come on, your lesson starts soon," she dabbed her eyes with a handkerchief, leading the way to the Guards quarters.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Alright, I won't pretend I've ever trained a girl in sword combat before, so I'll be blunt, I don't think you can do it, but if her majesty insists, then I shall give it my all, and I ask you to do the same," the captain of the Guard, Russell, told Lynn, "Now, take a sword from the rack, and try to hit me, you can try any method you like, but if I land three hits on you with this," he hefted his heavy spear, "We stop,"
Lynn went over to the sword rack and looked through the swords. Testing a few, she found that she understood each sword's faults, this was too heavy, another too unbalanced, until she found one that was just right.
Turning back to Russell, she held the sword loosely in her left hand, her legs already in a battle ready stance.
When Russell nodded for her to begin, she let gut instinct guide her, feinting a hit to the thigh before whipping it up to Russell's shoulder. But he was just as fast, dodging out of the way, surprisingly agile for a man his size. He rolled on the wet grass and sprang to his feet, facing Lynn.
Lynn span around, and ran in for another attack. Swinging the blade in a wide arc, which narrowly missed the guard captain, Lynn span the sword around in her hand, holding the sword so the blade was behind her, and swung the sword towards Russell, which he barely dodged.
Lynn yelled out viciously, going in for another swing, which Russell blocked with his spear, before shoving her with it, which caused her to stop her onslaught and back away a little. Best not to end this too quickly.
The two circled each other for a while, Lynn not entirely sure what she should attempt next, should she attempt another attack? Or try something a little more devious? Noticing that Russell was focussing more on facing her so he could block or dodge her attacks, she quickly formulated a strategy. Using her natural athleticism and cunning, she ran towards Russell. The guard captain quickly readied his spear for a second strike when Lynn flipped right over him and smacked him with the flat of her sword on his back.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I guess you win then," Russell grunted as he picked himself up from the floor, rubbing his back,
Zelda, who had been watching from the fence of the training ring, clapped her hands, "Well done!"
Lynn dropped to the floor, gasping, "That was exhilarating,"
"You were a lot better than I expected, where did you learn to fight like that?" Russell asked, "Not once have I been bested in battle by a recruit," he said, but he said it cheerfully, as if proud,
"I don't know, once the sword was in my hand it was like instinct took over. I mean, I was always the most athletic when it came to games at the orphanage, but I've never done anything like that before," Lynn told him, laughing,
"You were right Princess," Russell laughed, "She is a natural,"
Zelda nodded, smiling. Lynn looked up at the Guard Captain, "What do you mean a natural?"
"I mean you're naturally adept at sword play. When training with swords, many are clunky, mechanical, but watching you was like watching a dancer. The sword moved like it was an extension of your being, and you were fast, almost unbelievably so. You were performing moves naturally that take lots of people weeks to learn," he helped the teenager up, "Yeah, after a few lessons even I won't have anything to teach you," Russell chuckled,
Lynn couldn't believe the praise she was receiving, and flushed with pride, which was greeted with Russell pinching her long ear.
"But don't go getting a big head, you have a long way to go before you become a true Sword Master," Russell let go of her ear, "Next time, we'll begin training with the shield," he walked off, as Lynn rubbed her ear, "Same time tomorrow!" he shouted over his shoulder.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zelda and Lynn walked back into the castle together, Lynn still massaging her ear, which had gone pink,
"He didn't have to pinch so hard..." she grumbled,
"Oh stop complaining," Zelda told her, "He just doesn't want you to think you're better than you are,"
Lynn shouldered her new sword belt, feeling the unnatural weight of the sword on her back, "I still wasn't expecting to be given the sword as a gift,"
"The way you moved, it was like you and the sword were made for each other," Zelda said dreamily, "It was beautiful, in a way..."
"Hmm," Lynn said distractedly, looking up at the castle. She'd had the feeling she was being watched, which was confirmed as she saw a pale person whip out of sight from one of the windows,
"...and Russell was right, it really was like a dance, and- hey! Are you listening?" Zelda asked, looking at Lynn, before following her gaze, "What is it?"
"Unfinished business," Lynn muttered, before brightening up, "Come on, you can help me search for more information. I'll race you!" she laughed before running off, Zelda trailing behind as she yelled, in a particularly unladylike manner, about the problems of wearing dresses, corsets and high heels while running.
Chapter Five Spoiler:
"In a city gripped by fear and greed, on streets greased with blood and tears, who is left to look out for the little guy and see if he's got any money on him? Yes, it's the surprising adventures of me, Sir Digby Chicken Caesar!" - Sir Digby Chicken Caesar, That Mitchell and Webb Look
A week later, Lynn had been through the length and breadth of every book in the castle library that could have contained any mention of her family, which was still very little. The only information that held any information as to her families possible whereabouts and history were locations where her more prolific descendants had visited and spoke about in the diaries (the books Lynn had been found with), among these was that her great-grandfather, who Zelda said had saved Hyrule from a veil of twilight, had lived in a small village in the south of Hyrule. Both Zelda and Lynn figured that the village, known as Ordon, would be the best place to start, as it was the most recent location recorded. The only problem was that Lynn was unable to leave the castle grounds, by order of the king. As soon as night fell, she wasn't allowed to leave the castle at all.
Zelda knew that the guards had been warned to keep an eye on Lynn, and the guards posted on the outer wall were given instructions to bring her in if she attempted to escape. So Zelda had to hatch a plan...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Where are we going again?" Lynn asked, as the two girls walked down some stairs leading under the castle,
"I'll tell you when we get there, I don't want to be overheard," Zelda said, lithely jumping the last few steps. She had chosen to wear more casual dress today, and to hell with the consequences, she had said.
Opening a rather ornate looking door, wincing as the hinges creaked, Zelda motioned for Lynn to go through, lighting a torch, "I figured out an escape route. This cellar has a rail track running from here to Kakariko Village," Zelda pointed at the tracks set into the floor, and a small train with two carriages sitting upon it, "It hasn't been used in years, and it was built to provide an easy escape in case the castle ever came under attack, but you can use it as an escape at night,"
Lynn studied the track and train, and followed the track with her gaze until it disappeared into darkness, "Seems good, but I can't leave the castle after dark,"
"No, but Nohan's ball is tonight. I have it all arranged so you can make your escape. Bring your horse down here before dark, and get her on one of the carriages. When the distraction at the ball occurs, get down here and wait in the train. I have an expert engineer who will leave as soon as everything is ready. Bring everything else you might need when you bring the horse down," Zelda smiled as the two girls pulled closed the door, blowing out the torch,
"How will I recognise the distraction?" Lynn asked, taking the stairs two at a time,
"Oh, it'll be impossible to miss, trust me," Zelda grinned, her perfect white teeth glinting like pearls.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Later, as the ball started to get into full swing, Lynn and Zelda watched from the balcony above the banquet hall.
"So, when is this distraction supposed to start?" Lynn asked, adjusting her hat so it sat firmly on her head,
"Any minute now, just be patient," Zelda grinned, eating some of the delicious chocolate mousse the kitchen staff had whipped up, "Come on, eat something! This is your last meal here after all,"
Lynn's stomach grumbled, but she just shook her head, "Can't, I'm too nervous, if I eat something I'll have something to throw up," she looked at the people dancing below, "Why are we up here by the way?"
"Two reasons, first is that my brother doesn't want me to outshine him or you to bring up what you did to him last week, and second is that we don't want to be in the way when the fun starts," Zelda kept eating as a huge bang echoed throughout the hall, shocking the paid musicians into silence.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the centre of the crowd of people stood a tall boy, his brown hair tousled and spiky, holding a small flintlock pistol to the air. He was dressed in the garb of an aristocrat, but with a curious addition, an eye-patch over his right eye.
"Alright then, time to liven things up!" he shouted, at which many of the men (and a couple of women) in the crowd cheered, and began drawing weapons from concealed holsters in their clothes,
The boy looked up at the balcony for a second before continuing, "Guys, you have one order, and one order only," he paused dramatically, and everyone in the hall watched him with bated breath, "Have fun!" he laughed as they began waving swords around dangerously, chasing the aristocrats about,
The boy jumped up on the table at the front of the hall, kicking bowls and plates in every direction, until a rapier to his neck stopped him,
"Evening Nohan," the boy grinned, turning to the Prince,
"Hawk," the Prince said shortly,
"Great party," Hawk moved out of the way of the rapier and jumped down, landing next to the Prince, "So how've you been?" he asked mockingly,
"What are you doing here?"
"Crashing a party, what does it look like?" Hawk picked up an apple, taking a bite,
"And why now?"
"Let's just say someone owes me a favour and I came to collect," Hawk grinned slyly, "Hey, guess what I heard?"
"What?" Nohan growled,
"I heard some girl hit you, and you were so scared you pissed your pants," Hawk laughed as he dodged out of Nohan's way, the rapier narrowly missing him,
"You know," Hawk said, drawing his own sword, which had a long, curved blade, "You always were bad at face to face combat mate,"
Nohan made to strike Hawk, but his strike was easily blocked. The two duelled, Nohan with wild determination, Hawk with carefree abandon as he blocked, parried and dodged every one of Nohan's strikes.
They both ignored the chaos around them, and as they moved across the hall, jumping and avoiding broken chairs, tables, and the occasional unconscious noblewoman, the two men were separated by other people moving into the way.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eventually it was drawn to the point where Nohan was facing down pretty much every one of the party crashers, unaware that Hawk was standing right behind him,
"Alright then! Who wants some!" Nohan shouted, hoping he sounded braver than he felt, when a bottle smashed on his head, sending him straight to unconsciousness,
"Just wanted the pleasure of doing that myself," Hawk said, before shouting, "Alright guys, get going before you get arrested, go on," the party crashers, their fun over, quickly ran from the castle, using whatever escape methods possible.
Hawk just wandered slowly through the corridors, when he came across the person he was looking for,
"Hello Princess," he grinned.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lynn was sitting in the train, waiting for this so called 'expert' engineer.
"Come on, where are you?" she asked the air, because she knew no one could hear her, when the door creaked open, and shut again.
A figure climbed into the carriage, seemingly carrying someone else over their shoulder.
The person they were carrying was deposited on the seat with a familiar sounding squeak, and then the torches were lit,
Lynn found herself sitting next to Zelda, and the expert engineer was none other than...
"You? You're the engineer?" she asked the tall boy, staring at the one eye he had visible,
"The one and only," Hawk grinned,
Zelda stood, feeling slightly disoriented, "You didn't have to carry me you know, I could have walked, you didn't have to carry me," she grumbled, smoothing her dress,
"But Princess, that would have made it less authentic, it'd make it look like you organised this," Hawk said with mock concern before laughing again,
"Wait, you two know each other?" Lynn asked, feeling confused,
"Yes, a few years ago Nohan tried to have me married off, and invited hundreds of possible suitors from all over the country, the continent even. Redd was there, and seeing that I didn't want to be there, started a riot. Nohan was never allowed to hold a party again without father's permission," Zelda giggled at the memory, "It was fun,"
"And we haven't been formally introduced, Redd Hawk, at your service," Redd grinned, shaking Lynn's hand, "You know those clothes do not flatter you at all, it should be a dress or nothing,"
Lynn blushed as Zelda giggled, "Nice to meet you Redd,"
"Now, if you ladies don't mind, I'm gonna start this train before we attract attention," Redd hopped out of the carriage, and filled the engine of the small steam train.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Zelda, why didn't you tell me you were coming?" Lynn asked, sitting down next to her friend, as the train chugged silently through the underground tunnel,
"I wanted it to be a surprise, and I didn't want to say goodbye," Zelda smiled sadly, "And I thought, I'm never going to be queen anyway, so why not just leave?"
Lynn could see the flaws in this plan, it didn't do to just run away, but seeing Zelda's hopeful expression, didn't have the heart to point it out.
"So, Kakariko Village then?" Lynn asked, changing the subject,
"Yes, I want to visit mother's grave while we're there, is that alright?" Zelda asked,
Lynn, who knew that the recently deceased queen had been loved by many, nodded.
"And don't worry," Zelda added, "It's not as if we're going on a world saving mission or anything," she laughed.
Chapter Five
A week later, Lynn had been through the length and breadth of every book in the castle library that could have contained any mention of her family, which was still very little. The only information that held any information as to her families possible whereabouts and history were locations where her more prolific descendants had visited and spoke about in the diaries (the books Lynn had been found with), among these was that her great-grandfather, who Zelda said had saved Hyrule from a veil of twilight, had lived in a small village in the south of Hyrule. Both Zelda and Lynn figured that the village, known as Ordon, would be the best place to start, as it was the most recent location recorded. The only problem was that Lynn was unable to leave the castle grounds, by order of the king. As soon as night fell, she wasn't allowed to leave the castle at all.
Zelda knew that the guards had been warned to keep an eye on Lynn, and the guards posted on the outer wall were given instructions to bring her in if she attempted to escape. So Zelda had to hatch a plan...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Where are we going again?" Lynn asked, as the two girls walked down some stairs leading under the castle,
"I'll tell you when we get there, I don't want to be overheard," Zelda said, lithely jumping the last few steps. She had chosen to wear more casual dress today, and to hell with the consequences, she had said.
Opening a rather ornate looking door, wincing as the hinges creaked, Zelda motioned for Lynn to go through, lighting a torch, "I figured out an escape route. This cellar has a rail track running from here to Kakariko Village," Zelda pointed at the tracks set into the floor, and a small train with two carriages sitting upon it, "It hasn't been used in years, and it was built to provide an easy escape in case the castle ever came under attack, but you can use it as an escape at night,"
Lynn studied the track and train, and followed the track with her gaze until it disappeared into darkness, "Seems good, but I can't leave the castle after dark,"
"No, but Nohan's ball is tonight. I have it all arranged so you can make your escape. Bring your horse down here before dark, and get her on one of the carriages. When the distraction at the ball occurs, get down here and wait in the train. I have an expert engineer who will leave as soon as everything is ready. Bring everything else you might need when you bring the horse down," Zelda smiled as the two girls pulled closed the door, blowing out the torch,
"How will I recognise the distraction?" Lynn asked, taking the stairs two at a time,
"Oh, it'll be impossible to miss, trust me," Zelda grinned, her perfect white teeth glinting like pearls.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Later, as the ball started to get into full swing, Lynn and Zelda watched from the balcony above the banquet hall.
"So, when is this distraction supposed to start?" Lynn asked, adjusting her hat so it sat firmly on her head,
"Any minute now, just be patient," Zelda grinned, eating some of the delicious chocolate mousse the kitchen staff had whipped up, "Come on, eat something! This is your last meal here after all,"
Lynn's stomach grumbled, but she just shook her head, "Can't, I'm too nervous, if I eat something I'll have something to throw up," she looked at the people dancing below, "Why are we up here by the way?"
"Two reasons, first is that my brother doesn't want me to outshine him or you to bring up what you did to him last week, and second is that we don't want to be in the way when the fun starts," Zelda kept eating as a huge bang echoed throughout the hall, shocking the paid musicians into silence.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the centre of the crowd of people stood a tall boy, his brown hair tousled and spiky, holding a small flintlock pistol to the air. He was dressed in the garb of an aristocrat, but with a curious addition, an eye-patch over his right eye.
"Alright then, time to liven things up!" he shouted, at which many of the men (and a couple of women) in the crowd cheered, and began drawing weapons from concealed holsters in their clothes,
The boy looked up at the balcony for a second before continuing, "Guys, you have one order, and one order only," he paused dramatically, and everyone in the hall watched him with bated breath, "Have fun!" he laughed as they began waving swords around dangerously, chasing the aristocrats about,
The boy jumped up on the table at the front of the hall, kicking bowls and plates in every direction, until a rapier to his neck stopped him,
"Evening Nohan," the boy grinned, turning to the Prince,
"Hawk," the Prince said shortly,
"Great party," Hawk moved out of the way of the rapier and jumped down, landing next to the Prince, "So how've you been?" he asked mockingly,
"What are you doing here?"
"Crashing a party, what does it look like?" Hawk picked up an apple, taking a bite,
"And why now?"
"Let's just say someone owes me a favour and I came to collect," Hawk grinned slyly, "Hey, guess what I heard?"
"What?" Nohan growled,
"I heard some girl hit you, and you were so scared you pissed your pants," Hawk laughed as he dodged out of Nohan's way, the rapier narrowly missing him,
"You know," Hawk said, drawing his own sword, which had a long, curved blade, "You always were bad at face to face combat mate,"
Nohan made to strike Hawk, but his strike was easily blocked. The two duelled, Nohan with wild determination, Hawk with carefree abandon as he blocked, parried and dodged every one of Nohan's strikes.
They both ignored the chaos around them, and as they moved across the hall, jumping and avoiding broken chairs, tables, and the occasional unconscious noblewoman, the two men were separated by other people moving into the way.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eventually it was drawn to the point where Nohan was facing down pretty much every one of the party crashers, unaware that Hawk was standing right behind him,
"Alright then! Who wants some!" Nohan shouted, hoping he sounded braver than he felt, when a bottle smashed on his head, sending him straight to unconsciousness,
"Just wanted the pleasure of doing that myself," Hawk said, before shouting, "Alright guys, get going before you get arrested, go on," the party crashers, their fun over, quickly ran from the castle, using whatever escape methods possible.
Hawk just wandered slowly through the corridors, when he came across the person he was looking for,
"Hello Princess," he grinned.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lynn was sitting in the train, waiting for this so called 'expert' engineer.
"Come on, where are you?" she asked the air, because she knew no one could hear her, when the door creaked open, and shut again.
A figure climbed into the carriage, seemingly carrying someone else over their shoulder.
The person they were carrying was deposited on the seat with a familiar sounding squeak, and then the torches were lit,
Lynn found herself sitting next to Zelda, and the expert engineer was none other than...
"You? You're the engineer?" she asked the tall boy, staring at the one eye he had visible,
"The one and only," Hawk grinned,
Zelda stood, feeling slightly disoriented, "You didn't have to carry me you know, I could have walked, you didn't have to carry me," she grumbled, smoothing her dress,
"But Princess, that would have made it less authentic, it'd make it look like you organised this," Hawk said with mock concern before laughing again,
"Wait, you two know each other?" Lynn asked, feeling confused,
"Yes, a few years ago Nohan tried to have me married off, and invited hundreds of possible suitors from all over the country, the continent even. Redd was there, and seeing that I didn't want to be there, started a riot. Nohan was never allowed to hold a party again without father's permission," Zelda giggled at the memory, "It was fun,"
"And we haven't been formally introduced, Redd Hawk, at your service," Redd grinned, shaking Lynn's hand, "You know those clothes do not flatter you at all, it should be a dress or nothing,"
Lynn blushed as Zelda giggled, "Nice to meet you Redd,"
"Now, if you ladies don't mind, I'm gonna start this train before we attract attention," Redd hopped out of the carriage, and filled the engine of the small steam train.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Zelda, why didn't you tell me you were coming?" Lynn asked, sitting down next to her friend, as the train chugged silently through the underground tunnel,
"I wanted it to be a surprise, and I didn't want to say goodbye," Zelda smiled sadly, "And I thought, I'm never going to be queen anyway, so why not just leave?"
Lynn could see the flaws in this plan, it didn't do to just run away, but seeing Zelda's hopeful expression, didn't have the heart to point it out.
"So, Kakariko Village then?" Lynn asked, changing the subject,
"Yes, I want to visit mother's grave while we're there, is that alright?" Zelda asked,
Lynn, who knew that the recently deceased queen had been loved by many, nodded.
"And don't worry," Zelda added, "It's not as if we're going on a world saving mission or anything," she laughed.
Chapter Six Spoiler:
"Screw the rules, I have money!" - Kaiba, Yu-Gi-Oh! The Abridged Series
Zelda and Lynn were sleeping in the carriage when the train ground to a halt.
Redd leaned in, "It only took an hour," he muttered to himself good-naturedly, putting a blanket over the two girls.
He stretched his arms, and yawned, "I could do with a kip," he looked around the cramped carriage space and whistled quietly, "The floor it is," he dropped lithely to the floor, hands behind his head, and was asleep within seconds.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zelda was the first to wake up, blinking blearily as she sat up. She'd been woken by the sound of Redd snoring, and as she leant forward Lynn, who had been leaning against her, fell onto the seat, which woke her up immediately.
"What happened?" Lynn asked, before rubbing the side of her face that had hit the chair as she sat up,
"I think we fell asleep," Zelda said, removing the ornate and complicated headdress she wore carefully, wincing as it pulled a few strands of hair out, "Redd must have decided not to wake us up,"
Lynn stood up, her chain mail clinking, before crouching back down next to Redd. Nudging him, she said, "Redd, wake up,"
Redd grumbled in his sleep, so Zelda kicked him, which woke him up easily, "Wassat?" he said sleepily, rubbing his bruised rib, "Morning," he grinned at the girls,
"Do you mind getting out of the carriage, I'm getting changed," Zelda said, pointing at the door. Redd smiled ruefully before exiting, Lynn following behind, laughing.
Outside, Lynn shook Redd's hand again as they walked, "I didn't get to introduce myself before, I'm Lynn,"
"Lynn hmm? That short for anything?" Redd asked curiously,
"Alynnedé," she said, "I'm the last known descendant of the Hero of Time,"
"Well, that explains the green," Redd joked, "So, are we in any imminent danger now that you've shown up?"
"I don't think so," Lynn smiled, "Why do you wear an eye-patch?"
Redd looked at the eye-patch with his free eye, "Oh yeah, forgot I was wearing it," he laughed, pulling it off.
Underneath the eye-patch was another eye, the eye-patch had clearly been part of a disguise, however, unlike his left eye which was blue, his right eye was...
"Red?" Lynn asked, looking at the strange eye,
"Yes?"
"Not you, your eye, it's red,"
"Really? I hadn't noticed," Redd said,
"How did it happen?"
"It didn't 'happen', I was just born with it, I had a Hylian father and a Sheikah Mother," Redd explained,
"Sheikah?"
"You know, the Shadow folk? They have red eyes," Redd said, "Mostly associated with myths but they show up every now and then. They're often protectors of the Royal family, though that hasn't been the case for generations now,"
"And so you're named Redd, because of your eye?" Lynn asked,
Redd smiled and chuckled, but didn't answer,
"Come on! Tell me!" Lynn pleaded, but was interrupted by Zelda emerging from the carriage.
She had her long golden brown hair down to her waist. She was wearing a white sleeveless top, the hemline of which stopped a good three or four inches above her navel. Tied around her neck was a simple red neck-scarf, and on her left wrist was a white bandage, which covered the back of her hand, hiding the Triforce mark. Around her waist was a red belt, which held up a pair of loose shin length shorts. On her feet she wore brown sandals.
"Zelda?" Lynn asked, as the girl who had emerged from the carriage looked very different, her once pale skin now tanned, a golden ring in her long ear,
"That's me," Zelda giggled, winking,
"What happened?"
"The power of the Triforce allows me to disguise myself," Zelda grinned, "To the untrained eye, I'm someone completely different,"
Redd shrugged, "I saw it coming,"
"You knew?" Lynn asked accusingly,
"Zelda keeps me updated monthly with the goings on around the castle, so I was mildly surprised when I received a short letter from her asking me to crash a party and 'kidnap' her," Redd grinned, "And when I found out who was running the party, well, how could I resist?" he smiled roguishly,
Lynn looked at Zelda questioningly, "He and Nohan have hated each other since they met ten years ago. Redd was always the better fighter too," she smiled,
"So I fed him some false information about someone owing me a favour, I trust I won't be subject to a nationwide manhunt?" Redd asked, an eyebrow raised in mock concern,
"Don't worry, I told father all about it in a letter. Don't expect any let up from Nohan though. He'll hunt you to the ends of the world if he has to," Zelda said grimly, "Now can we get out of here, this place is like a dungeon,"
"Right, onwards and upwards," Redd said cheerfully, opening a door and letting sunlight into the cellar-like tunnel, "Ladies first,"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kakariko Village, Lynn mused, is definitely the kind of place I can imagine living. It's got this rustic sort of feel to it, and the townsfolk are friendly enough.
She was lying in the branch of a tree outside of the graveyard, waiting for Zelda, who was visiting her mother's grave.
"Say Redd," she asked the boy, who was slumped against the trunk fo the tree,
"Yeah," he grunted,
"Where did you get those people in the banquet hall, you know, the ones you told to have fun?"
"Hired 'em,"
"Ok then..." she said faintly, "Redd, where do you live?" she asked, twisting a lock of her in her fingers,
"I go where the wind takes me, I'm an adventurer, a rogue," Redd replied, looking up at the sky, before standing, "And on that note, this is where I leave you, tell Zelda I'll be seeing her,"
"Wait, you're not coming with us?" Lynn asked, dropping from the tree and landing gracefully,
"No, I've got some things to do," Redd turned to her, "But we'll see each other again, I guarantee it,"
"Bye," Lynn said to his retreating back, to which he just waved, not turning back.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lynn's horse was munching on the thin grass when Zelda returned.
"Redd gone?" she asked,
"Yeah," Lynn replied, "Said he had stuff to do,"
Zelda nodded, then watched as Lynn's brown horse tossed it's white mane, "Have you still not got a name for her?"
"No, but my ancestors have each possessed similar horses, and both the Hero of Time and the last one both called their horses Epona, which I think fits, a lot," Lynn said,
Zelda nodded, "Epona it is then,"
Lynn stood up and stretched, "So are we leaving then?"
"Yes, I think so. Time to head south," Zelda said, while Lynn mounted Epona, taking the hand offered and sliding gracefully into the saddle.
Chapter Six
Zelda and Lynn were sleeping in the carriage when the train ground to a halt.
Redd leaned in, "It only took an hour," he muttered to himself good-naturedly, putting a blanket over the two girls.
He stretched his arms, and yawned, "I could do with a kip," he looked around the cramped carriage space and whistled quietly, "The floor it is," he dropped lithely to the floor, hands behind his head, and was asleep within seconds.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zelda was the first to wake up, blinking blearily as she sat up. She'd been woken by the sound of Redd snoring, and as she leant forward Lynn, who had been leaning against her, fell onto the seat, which woke her up immediately.
"What happened?" Lynn asked, before rubbing the side of her face that had hit the chair as she sat up,
"I think we fell asleep," Zelda said, removing the ornate and complicated headdress she wore carefully, wincing as it pulled a few strands of hair out, "Redd must have decided not to wake us up,"
Lynn stood up, her chain mail clinking, before crouching back down next to Redd. Nudging him, she said, "Redd, wake up,"
Redd grumbled in his sleep, so Zelda kicked him, which woke him up easily, "Wassat?" he said sleepily, rubbing his bruised rib, "Morning," he grinned at the girls,
"Do you mind getting out of the carriage, I'm getting changed," Zelda said, pointing at the door. Redd smiled ruefully before exiting, Lynn following behind, laughing.
Outside, Lynn shook Redd's hand again as they walked, "I didn't get to introduce myself before, I'm Lynn,"
"Lynn hmm? That short for anything?" Redd asked curiously,
"Alynnedé," she said, "I'm the last known descendant of the Hero of Time,"
"Well, that explains the green," Redd joked, "So, are we in any imminent danger now that you've shown up?"
"I don't think so," Lynn smiled, "Why do you wear an eye-patch?"
Redd looked at the eye-patch with his free eye, "Oh yeah, forgot I was wearing it," he laughed, pulling it off.
Underneath the eye-patch was another eye, the eye-patch had clearly been part of a disguise, however, unlike his left eye which was blue, his right eye was...
"Red?" Lynn asked, looking at the strange eye,
"Yes?"
"Not you, your eye, it's red,"
"Really? I hadn't noticed," Redd said,
"How did it happen?"
"It didn't 'happen', I was just born with it, I had a Hylian father and a Sheikah Mother," Redd explained,
"Sheikah?"
"You know, the Shadow folk? They have red eyes," Redd said, "Mostly associated with myths but they show up every now and then. They're often protectors of the Royal family, though that hasn't been the case for generations now,"
"And so you're named Redd, because of your eye?" Lynn asked,
Redd smiled and chuckled, but didn't answer,
"Come on! Tell me!" Lynn pleaded, but was interrupted by Zelda emerging from the carriage.
She had her long golden brown hair down to her waist. She was wearing a white sleeveless top, the hemline of which stopped a good three or four inches above her navel. Tied around her neck was a simple red neck-scarf, and on her left wrist was a white bandage, which covered the back of her hand, hiding the Triforce mark. Around her waist was a red belt, which held up a pair of loose shin length shorts. On her feet she wore brown sandals.
"Zelda?" Lynn asked, as the girl who had emerged from the carriage looked very different, her once pale skin now tanned, a golden ring in her long ear,
"That's me," Zelda giggled, winking,
"What happened?"
"The power of the Triforce allows me to disguise myself," Zelda grinned, "To the untrained eye, I'm someone completely different,"
Redd shrugged, "I saw it coming,"
"You knew?" Lynn asked accusingly,
"Zelda keeps me updated monthly with the goings on around the castle, so I was mildly surprised when I received a short letter from her asking me to crash a party and 'kidnap' her," Redd grinned, "And when I found out who was running the party, well, how could I resist?" he smiled roguishly,
Lynn looked at Zelda questioningly, "He and Nohan have hated each other since they met ten years ago. Redd was always the better fighter too," she smiled,
"So I fed him some false information about someone owing me a favour, I trust I won't be subject to a nationwide manhunt?" Redd asked, an eyebrow raised in mock concern,
"Don't worry, I told father all about it in a letter. Don't expect any let up from Nohan though. He'll hunt you to the ends of the world if he has to," Zelda said grimly, "Now can we get out of here, this place is like a dungeon,"
"Right, onwards and upwards," Redd said cheerfully, opening a door and letting sunlight into the cellar-like tunnel, "Ladies first,"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kakariko Village, Lynn mused, is definitely the kind of place I can imagine living. It's got this rustic sort of feel to it, and the townsfolk are friendly enough.
She was lying in the branch of a tree outside of the graveyard, waiting for Zelda, who was visiting her mother's grave.
"Say Redd," she asked the boy, who was slumped against the trunk fo the tree,
"Yeah," he grunted,
"Where did you get those people in the banquet hall, you know, the ones you told to have fun?"
"Hired 'em,"
"Ok then..." she said faintly, "Redd, where do you live?" she asked, twisting a lock of her in her fingers,
"I go where the wind takes me, I'm an adventurer, a rogue," Redd replied, looking up at the sky, before standing, "And on that note, this is where I leave you, tell Zelda I'll be seeing her,"
"Wait, you're not coming with us?" Lynn asked, dropping from the tree and landing gracefully,
"No, I've got some things to do," Redd turned to her, "But we'll see each other again, I guarantee it,"
"Bye," Lynn said to his retreating back, to which he just waved, not turning back.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lynn's horse was munching on the thin grass when Zelda returned.
"Redd gone?" she asked,
"Yeah," Lynn replied, "Said he had stuff to do,"
Zelda nodded, then watched as Lynn's brown horse tossed it's white mane, "Have you still not got a name for her?"
"No, but my ancestors have each possessed similar horses, and both the Hero of Time and the last one both called their horses Epona, which I think fits, a lot," Lynn said,
Zelda nodded, "Epona it is then,"
Lynn stood up and stretched, "So are we leaving then?"
"Yes, I think so. Time to head south," Zelda said, while Lynn mounted Epona, taking the hand offered and sliding gracefully into the saddle.
Chapter Seven Spoiler:
"Oh no / We gotta go / We're not gonna live forever / Why? Why? We gotta die / You know that we'll be together / Hey hey we gotta say / I could never be a saviour / You don't have to be there / Cause I'm never never never / Comin' home..." - Dracula from Houston, Butthole Surfers
It was noon when the two girls arrived at the woods.
"So Ordon Village is through there?" Lynn asked Zelda, who was studying the map,
"Should be, yes, this is Faron Woods," Zelda replied, looking up from the map,
"Does it have to be so imposing?" Lynn smiled as she nudged Epona to proceed,
Zelda laughed at this, "It's from these woods that the Hero of Time's adventures first began, the village on the other side is quite new,"
"New?"
"Well, supposedly it was built where the Hero of Time grew up as a child, legend states that it was once populated by the forest children, the Kokiri, but they have disappeared. Your family stayed, and the village was repopulated and rebuilt by the humans who moved in,"
"Humans? Those are the ones with the round ears right?"
"Yes, and have since become an integral part of Hyrulean society. Humans have a knack for swift adaptation and quick-thinking which rivals that of a Hylian," Zelda looked around, "If we just stick to the path we should be fine,"
"So, humans are just Hylians but without any of the magical input from the Goddesses?" Lynn asked curiously,
"Seems like it, great fighters though," Zelda answered, "According to the map, we should be coming to a spring soon, do you want to rest up?"
Lynn nodded, "Yeah, I need to stretch my legs," she winced cheerfully.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Epona was drinking the water from the pool as Lynn lay on the bank, her bare feet being gently tickled by the water. She had her eyes closed and was just drifting off to a peaceful sleep when something small hit her directly in the forehead, hard.
"Ouch!" Lynn exclaimed, sitting up and rubbing her sore head, but there was no sign of what had hit her or where it had gone, "What was that?" she asked herself, before scowling at the horse, who was looking at her funny,
"That was me," said a voice, somehow above Lynn,
"What? Who's there?" Lynn asked, standing up and turning around,
"As I said before, me," the voice said again, giggling,
"Right..." Lynn said suspiciously, "And do you have a name?"
"Of course I do, but I'm not telling you, you're invading my spring,"
"Well, sorry if it seems that way, but honestly, we're just resting, we'll be on our way soon," Lynn said reassuringly, "And where are you anyway?"
Lynn felt something moving in her hair, and the voice said quietly, "Sorry, about attacking you, I haven't seen anyone in ages, since the monsters came, they attacked the village near here," a small thing with wings lifted itself from her hair and fluttered in front of her, "My name is Skye,"
The fairy, for that was what it was, was a small girl, with short blonde hair and a simple white dress. Four wings extended out of her back, fragile and thin. She emanated a soft white glow.
As she perched on Lynn's finger, Lynn asked, "Wait, monsters attacked Ordon?"
Skye nodded, "It was a long time ago, but when they came, all of the other fairies flew away, they were so frightened. I got caught up in the chaos and hurt my wing. By the time I'd got better, they'd all gone, and I couldn't find them, so I stayed here,"
"Well, I'm looking for my family too, you feel like tagging along? Maybe we'll both find what we're looking for," Lynn said as Skye lifted herself back into the air,
"Sounds good to me,"
"One more question, what did you hit me with?" Lynn asked, pointing to the red mark on her forehead,
Skye pointed her tiny finger at her own head, "I'm not good with forward planning," she laughed,
Zelda arrived back at the spring, having taken a quick moment to stretch her legs, "Who are you talking to?"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After a quick introduction, they soon arrived at the village.
"Skye, you really weren't kidding when you said monsters attacked," Lynn grimaced, "Look at it, there's nothing left,"
Zelda closed her eyes, "Skye, what did these monsters look like?"
The fairy, who had been hovering near Lynn's head, landed on the back of Epona and folded her wings, "They had green skin, and... awful green eyes," she shuddered at the memory, "Compared to you two, they were quite short, except for this really big one who rode on a giant pig. Oh, and they had horns," Skye finished, blinking tears out of her brown eyes,
"Bulblins," Lynn and Zelda said simultaneously,
"I thought they were at peace with Hyrule since the last Hero defeated their leader?" Lynn asked, turning in her saddle to face Zelda,
"They're known for allying themselves with the strongest, clearly at some point they found someone they believe to be stronger than Hyrule. Skye, when did they attack, can you give me a more precise time?" Zelda asked,
Skye closed her eyes, rubbing her forehead in concentration, her glow dimming before brightening again, "It must have been about a year ago,"
"Right, we may have to deal with that then," Zelda said, "For now though, I think I saw a house back there," she pointed towards the edge of the woods,
Lynn turned Epona back towards the woods, but stopped when she saw the house Zelda was referring to. Pulling a diary out of the saddlebag, she flicked through it until she found a sketch of her ancestor's house, "This is it," she said, unable to contain her excitement. She hopped off Epona, running up to the house, which was built into the tree behind it, and climbed the ladder to the front door.
Trying the handle, she found it was locked, and there was no sign of a key, "Damn, and I was so close," she said miserably,
Skye flew up to the lock, "Hang on," she folded her wings behind her back and wriggled in, "This might take a bit, sorry, do you want to just wait," she asked, poking her head out of the key hole,
"Sure," Lynn said, climbing down the decrepit ladder, before looking around at Zelda, and frowning,
"What?" Zelda asked, looking around,
Lynn shushed her, looking at Epona, whose ears had just pricked up. Drawing her sword, she said, "I'll be right back, stay here."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lynn cautiously re-entered the destroyed village, sword in one hand, shield in the other.
Listening carefully, she silently stepped towards one of the only remaining buildings, where she could hear the sound of something moving.
Wriggling through the half-open door, making sure not to make a noise, she saw what was making the noise, though the half-light made it impossible to identify any distinguishing features.
Pointing her sword towards its back, she kicked the door off its hinges, flooding the house with sunlight.
"Agh!" it shouted out in shock, dropping something which made a tinkling as it hit the floor,
As it turned around, Lynn could see that it wasn't an 'it' at all, but rather a man. He must have been in his mid-twenties or early thirties. He was thin, with brown hair, a small goatee and a moustache. He had bags under his eyes, and his face could only be described as 'bony'. He was tall, with long arms ending in long fingers. He wore a blue trench coat, blue waistcoat with white under-shirt, a gold belt which held up a pair of green-blue trousers and black boots.
Holding a green Rupee (the currency of Hyrule), he smiled uneasily at Lynn, "Hehe."
Chapter Seven
It was noon when the two girls arrived at the woods.
"So Ordon Village is through there?" Lynn asked Zelda, who was studying the map,
"Should be, yes, this is Faron Woods," Zelda replied, looking up from the map,
"Does it have to be so imposing?" Lynn smiled as she nudged Epona to proceed,
Zelda laughed at this, "It's from these woods that the Hero of Time's adventures first began, the village on the other side is quite new,"
"New?"
"Well, supposedly it was built where the Hero of Time grew up as a child, legend states that it was once populated by the forest children, the Kokiri, but they have disappeared. Your family stayed, and the village was repopulated and rebuilt by the humans who moved in,"
"Humans? Those are the ones with the round ears right?"
"Yes, and have since become an integral part of Hyrulean society. Humans have a knack for swift adaptation and quick-thinking which rivals that of a Hylian," Zelda looked around, "If we just stick to the path we should be fine,"
"So, humans are just Hylians but without any of the magical input from the Goddesses?" Lynn asked curiously,
"Seems like it, great fighters though," Zelda answered, "According to the map, we should be coming to a spring soon, do you want to rest up?"
Lynn nodded, "Yeah, I need to stretch my legs," she winced cheerfully.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Epona was drinking the water from the pool as Lynn lay on the bank, her bare feet being gently tickled by the water. She had her eyes closed and was just drifting off to a peaceful sleep when something small hit her directly in the forehead, hard.
"Ouch!" Lynn exclaimed, sitting up and rubbing her sore head, but there was no sign of what had hit her or where it had gone, "What was that?" she asked herself, before scowling at the horse, who was looking at her funny,
"That was me," said a voice, somehow above Lynn,
"What? Who's there?" Lynn asked, standing up and turning around,
"As I said before, me," the voice said again, giggling,
"Right..." Lynn said suspiciously, "And do you have a name?"
"Of course I do, but I'm not telling you, you're invading my spring,"
"Well, sorry if it seems that way, but honestly, we're just resting, we'll be on our way soon," Lynn said reassuringly, "And where are you anyway?"
Lynn felt something moving in her hair, and the voice said quietly, "Sorry, about attacking you, I haven't seen anyone in ages, since the monsters came, they attacked the village near here," a small thing with wings lifted itself from her hair and fluttered in front of her, "My name is Skye,"
The fairy, for that was what it was, was a small girl, with short blonde hair and a simple white dress. Four wings extended out of her back, fragile and thin. She emanated a soft white glow.
As she perched on Lynn's finger, Lynn asked, "Wait, monsters attacked Ordon?"
Skye nodded, "It was a long time ago, but when they came, all of the other fairies flew away, they were so frightened. I got caught up in the chaos and hurt my wing. By the time I'd got better, they'd all gone, and I couldn't find them, so I stayed here,"
"Well, I'm looking for my family too, you feel like tagging along? Maybe we'll both find what we're looking for," Lynn said as Skye lifted herself back into the air,
"Sounds good to me,"
"One more question, what did you hit me with?" Lynn asked, pointing to the red mark on her forehead,
Skye pointed her tiny finger at her own head, "I'm not good with forward planning," she laughed,
Zelda arrived back at the spring, having taken a quick moment to stretch her legs, "Who are you talking to?"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After a quick introduction, they soon arrived at the village.
"Skye, you really weren't kidding when you said monsters attacked," Lynn grimaced, "Look at it, there's nothing left,"
Zelda closed her eyes, "Skye, what did these monsters look like?"
The fairy, who had been hovering near Lynn's head, landed on the back of Epona and folded her wings, "They had green skin, and... awful green eyes," she shuddered at the memory, "Compared to you two, they were quite short, except for this really big one who rode on a giant pig. Oh, and they had horns," Skye finished, blinking tears out of her brown eyes,
"Bulblins," Lynn and Zelda said simultaneously,
"I thought they were at peace with Hyrule since the last Hero defeated their leader?" Lynn asked, turning in her saddle to face Zelda,
"They're known for allying themselves with the strongest, clearly at some point they found someone they believe to be stronger than Hyrule. Skye, when did they attack, can you give me a more precise time?" Zelda asked,
Skye closed her eyes, rubbing her forehead in concentration, her glow dimming before brightening again, "It must have been about a year ago,"
"Right, we may have to deal with that then," Zelda said, "For now though, I think I saw a house back there," she pointed towards the edge of the woods,
Lynn turned Epona back towards the woods, but stopped when she saw the house Zelda was referring to. Pulling a diary out of the saddlebag, she flicked through it until she found a sketch of her ancestor's house, "This is it," she said, unable to contain her excitement. She hopped off Epona, running up to the house, which was built into the tree behind it, and climbed the ladder to the front door.
Trying the handle, she found it was locked, and there was no sign of a key, "Damn, and I was so close," she said miserably,
Skye flew up to the lock, "Hang on," she folded her wings behind her back and wriggled in, "This might take a bit, sorry, do you want to just wait," she asked, poking her head out of the key hole,
"Sure," Lynn said, climbing down the decrepit ladder, before looking around at Zelda, and frowning,
"What?" Zelda asked, looking around,
Lynn shushed her, looking at Epona, whose ears had just pricked up. Drawing her sword, she said, "I'll be right back, stay here."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lynn cautiously re-entered the destroyed village, sword in one hand, shield in the other.
Listening carefully, she silently stepped towards one of the only remaining buildings, where she could hear the sound of something moving.
Wriggling through the half-open door, making sure not to make a noise, she saw what was making the noise, though the half-light made it impossible to identify any distinguishing features.
Pointing her sword towards its back, she kicked the door off its hinges, flooding the house with sunlight.
"Agh!" it shouted out in shock, dropping something which made a tinkling as it hit the floor,
As it turned around, Lynn could see that it wasn't an 'it' at all, but rather a man. He must have been in his mid-twenties or early thirties. He was thin, with brown hair, a small goatee and a moustache. He had bags under his eyes, and his face could only be described as 'bony'. He was tall, with long arms ending in long fingers. He wore a blue trench coat, blue waistcoat with white under-shirt, a gold belt which held up a pair of green-blue trousers and black boots.
Holding a green Rupee (the currency of Hyrule), he smiled uneasily at Lynn, "Hehe."
Chapter Eight Spoiler:
Chapter Nine Spoiler:
Chapter Ten Spoiler:
Chapter Eleven Spoiler:
Chapter Twelve Spoiler:
Chapter Thirteen Spoiler:
Chapter Fourteen Spoiler:
Chapter Fifteen Spoiler:
