The Maid with Starry Eyes

❤ OC RP blog from the Legend of Zelda: Four Swords universe ❤ Love interest of Blue. ❤ This is a sideblog so I cannot follow directly but will follow back on ask-ravio-stuff!

[brownstarryeyes]

[I HAVE SINNED. Spent too much time in a doll maker lol]

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Red nodded, jamming his hands into his pockets as he studied the girl before him. She was younger, if he had to guess, around sixteen. That would make Blue and Vio, what, three years her senior? He supposed she was shooting high. And to have both…well, he would not have expected behavior from someone so young. Though, he supposed he saw a bit of himself in her. The same foolishness…and the guilt afterwards. It was plain on her face. 

“Yeah, I’ve heard quite a lot, actually.” Red said, unable to help his clipped tone. As much as he felt for her, and he did, he could not ignore the fact that she’d broken not one, but two of his brother’s hearts. The people he held dearest to him were suffering because of her. And that wasn’t something he could so easily forgive - even if he was no better. 

“So,” he paused. “Mind telling me about this whole mess you’ve caused?” He asked, not at all tactful in his approach. He would certainly regret it later. “After all, you broke Blue’s heart. And Vio’s as well. So….care to explain why you did that?”

[brownstarryeyes]

She meekly wrapped her arms around herself. Of all things, Mari didn’t want to talk about this again. Why couldn’t they just leave her be? It would be easier to forget if they just ignored her existence entirely. Certainly the other already knew most of it. Vio and Blue both said that Red was somewhat like the confidant of the four. Continuous confrontation was only pulling her apart over and over. Drilling into her head what an awful, stupid person she was. Mari was feeling pressure in her chest, shortness of breath creeping in. “You don’t need to say it...as if I did it purposefully.” she replied. His incredulous tone was weighing her down and she wanted nothing more than get away from this. Go hide in a hole. He was right though, it was certainly a mess, “I never...I just...” she bit her lip, turning so that she faced away from him, covering her face with her hands. Looking at him would just make this all much worse. Be strong, and brave. It repeated in her head, her confidence so stiffed by this terrible depression.

“I was stupid, They were both wonderful people who actually loved me.” she said, voice somewhat muffled from her hands, “I wasn’t sure what to do with that, I’ve never felt that way about anyone. I was scared that...if I was too hasty I would make the wrong decision. Ironic. Now everyone in this castle calls me a whore behind my back, making up stories, acting as if I was with both of them in the worst of imaginably repulsive of ways! Do you really think that I could be so vile??”

Mari choked back a small whimper, slowly leaning against the wall to keep herself standing. Despite facing the other direction, it was obvious she was starting to shake. “Gods it’s bad enough I can’t just quit this job and disappear from their lives forever so everyone could just forget I even existed and then maybe joke about the stupid girl named Mariette ten years from now when they’re all married and happy. I have to see glimpses of them every day, I have to constantly be interrogated, hear the same whispers, and be asked the same questions over and over and over!” she cried, just giving up and sinking down to the ground. “No one even cares about how I feel! How I feel about not being able to have meaningful talks with Vio everyday or how I feel about Blue running off to something stupid because of what I did! To everyone I’m nuisance, the princess was kind enough to try to keep me away from the brunt of it, but I’m sure it’s only because I’m a disruption to everyone else who works here-- I’m alone, don’t you get that?? I don’t have anyone who cares about me enough to ask me how I feel or give me advice! The only person I have in my life is my little brother and he’s too young for me to place this kind of burden on!”

She was melting down, finally sick of dealing with this. Everything she had been feeling had been bottled up to prevent worrying Tauny, to try to look at least somewhat normal everyday she came to work. Her facade was failing because she was just too worried about Blue to care anymore.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[brownstarryeyes]

Mari nodded to Zelda. She understood that maybe she shouldn’t blame herself so much but it was hard to help. These past few days she’d been so down, so hard on herself. Everything bad was happening cause she was a bad person and deserved it. A bit much, but it was hard to be confident these days. Brown eyes glanced up when the door opened again. Vio. Her heart jumped in her chest with a bit of fear and surprise. Since the falling out with Blue and Vio, she’d avoided him, and he her. This built up the anxiety of finally seeing him as close as this. At least he also looked surprised to see her. Worse, though was when he looked directly at her. Immediately she averted her attention away, not wishing to see his eyes and their sharp, incredulous judgement. At least green didn’t kick her out. Of course she wanted to know about what was happening with blue, but it was not her place. Simply, she nodded and stood, leaving the room with rowan in arms.

When the door clicked behind her, she moved to the wall across from it and sat there. Mari needed some way of distracting her from all of this and simply began humming to a slightly restless Rowan. It was a gentle lullaby her mother taught her. When she was a child, she believed it had magic powers because after listening, she would always feel calmer and happier. In a way, the lullaby was more for herself.

[stormyeyedknight]

Vio sighed, watching Mariette leave. 

“I am sorry you had to see her,” Zelda murmured. “I was trying to-”

“No, it’s alright.” Vio sighed. “I am not so petty to hold her indecision against her. I mean…I suppose it stings. But I have had many partners…and it’s not like…I saw a future for us.”

“Yes you did.” 

Vio frowned, removing his glasses and rubbing the lenses against his cloak. “Perhaps. But that is moot now, isn’t it?”

“I suppose so. Still, I am sorry.”

“Don’t be. Still…” he frowned. “She’s worried about Blue…I think,” he sighed. “I think he left because he’s having a hard time. I didn’t realize just how invested they were in each other. I can’t help but feel I’ve ruined things.”

“It’s hardly your fault.”

“Perhaps.”

Zelda folded her hands, resting her lips against her knuckles. 

“Anyway, that is not the reason I had her leave. You said he took the Four Sword…well, I have bad news.” Vio murmured. “I think he took mine as well.”

Zelda raised her head, eyes wide. “He what?” She demanded. 

“Yes. I have checked. Mine is missing. I wouldn’t be surprised if he somehow managed to grab Green’s and Red’s, too, as they were stored together.”

“You’re joking. What is he planning?”

“The seal, remember? On the cave. Where Vaati must be…it’s definitely his magic, after all. He’s going to try and break it. He’s impulsive and he’s upset and I think…he wants to take out his frustration on something. So this was his plan. Either that, or he still doesn’t trust us not to try and return the sword when he is gone. Likely it’s both. But I know Blue…and if he’s reverting to his, ah, old ways…he’s trying to vent his frustration. He’s talked to me before…about slipping. And after he came back the other night injured, I imagine he’s having a hard time controlling himself. Thus the retreat…and the stupid ideas. I wouldn’t be surprised if he was drinking when he came up with this genius plan.”

“Then you have to get him back. Soon. Link will return soon with Theo and then you all should set out. I’ll send someone to have your horses readied. He could get himself killed. And, if word gets out that he’s done this, he could lose his rank. I….honestly should revoke the position. This is a breach of trust…but..” she sighed. “Demoting him would reveal the truth of the Four Sword to the public. And the truth behind these monster attacks…we cannot let anyone find out.”

“Don’t worry. We won’t. He can’t be far…Arrow’s fast, but not that fast. And once he gets to the mountains he would have to proceed on foot. My and Red’s magic can help us there.”

-

As the conversation proceeded inside, Red and Green proceeded down the hall, conversing quietly about the situation at hand. At least, until they spotted Mariette in the hall. 

“What are you doing out here?” Green asked, frowning. “Here. I’ll take my son. Why don’t you go and get some rest?” Green suggested, stooping to pick up his child, and then proceeding into the room with the others. 

Red, however, lingered in the hall. He looked down at the maid, face rather serious for the typically jovial baker. 

“So.” He began cooly. “You’re Mariette, hm?”

[brownstarryeyes]

By the time Green returned with Red, she’d finished her lullaby and was just letting Rowan pap her in the face with his little chubby baby hand and making stupid faces at him in an attempt to lift her spirits a bit. Baby laughter always seemed like a cure-all. She was a bit caught off guard by the two approaching and visibly jumped a bit. Mari glanced up towards Green and tried her best to work up even a small smile, “Ah...yes my arms are getting a bit tired.” she said. It was kind of a lie, she wouldn’t have minded holding Rowan more. He was warm and cuddly. Without the baby in her arms, she felt somewhat empty and useless again. Part of her worried that maybe the prince didn’t want someone like her taking care of his son, despite Zelda’s intentions. Mari sighed, only to have her thoughts interrupted by Red. Mari got up quickly, trying her best not to seem rude to a stranger. It was weird to see this sort of serious expression on someone Blue always said was the funniest, kindest, and happiest of all of his brothers. It was easy for her to assume why he would look at her that way. Obvious, really. Her hands fidgeted nervously, gaze down. This was not the way she would have wished to meet him. She couldn’t even look at him. Same stupid face as Blue and Vio. She couldn’t look at any of them for more than a moment or two. It was so unlike her to feel anxious. Sure she had fears, but never fear of conversation. “Ah...yes, that’s my name...” she replied. Mari imagined in her head what their real first meeting would be like. Him asking the same question, her replying with a sarcastic answer, enough to make a joke and cause a bit of a laugh. Instead, this was the reality. She assumed he hated her. Rightfully so. Blue was gone because of her, no matter how much Zelda insisted otherwise. She caused it by being foolish. “I...I’m sure you’ve heard a bit about me...” her voice quieted. Probably more than a bit if he’d been around the castle. Mari hoped that maybe Blue had said good things about her to his brother before all of this, that maybe, even just a little, those good things could ease the bad. The awful. Almost all of the words spoke about her in the castle lately had been untruths, but how was anyone else to know that. It was bad enough the other maids were calling her the door knob of Hyrule (”everyone gets a turn”). Over exaggeration, over blown...who had the better gossip about the latest joke, Mariette.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Zelda sighed, sitting heavily at her desk as Green departed. She looked to Mari, expecting the maid to be worried..and she was correct. “Mariette,” Zelda began, shaking her head. “This is not your fault. You should not feel guilty about this. Blue has always been impulsive…” she began, trying to do some damage control when Vio appeared in the doorway - throwing open the doors as Green had done before him. Though the brothers were all quite different in many ways, they still had similar reactions to troubling situations. 

“I just saw Green in the hall - he said you would explain to me what has been-” he paused, noticing Mariette. There was a slight hitch in his breath, a hesitation, before he went on. “Been going on? Blue is missing, is this true?” He asked. 

He would not even look at the maid. 

“Yes, it seems to be the case. Link is fetching Red as we speak and the three of you will go together to stop Blue before he does something reckless. Gods hope he hasn’t. He has taken his sword with him…” Zelda said, earning a puzzled look from Vio. 

“His sword? Why wouldn’t he-?” He cut off, realizing what Zelda meant. “Gods.” His voice was softer now. “Gods, I know where he is. I know exactly where he is.”

“Green seemed to know, too. Is it the barrier? Would he be stupid enough to-” Vio raised his hand, cutting the Princess off. It was then that he finally, finally looked to Mariette.

“Mariette.” He said, voice sharp. “If you could…give us a moment?” Vio asked, frowning down at her. He noticed the tears, the guilt-ridden expression. In his heart he knew the truth…he could see it plain on her face, how much Mari cared for her missing love. It just made his pain all the worse. Sighing he adjusted his glasses, lips thinning as he waited for the maid to remove herself from the room. 

Zelda studied the scholar a moment, before she looked to Mari, nodding. “Go on, take Rowan with you, it will just be a moment.”

[brownstarryeyes]

Mari nodded to Zelda. She understood that maybe she shouldn’t blame herself so much but it was hard to help. These past few days she’d been so down, so hard on herself. Everything bad was happening cause she was a bad person and deserved it. A bit much, but it was hard to be confident these days. Brown eyes glanced up when the door opened again. Vio. Her heart jumped in her chest with a bit of fear and surprise. Since the falling out with Blue and Vio, she’d avoided him, and he her. This built up the anxiety of finally seeing him as close as this. At least he also looked surprised to see her. Worse, though was when he looked directly at her. Immediately she averted her attention away, not wishing to see his eyes and their sharp, incredulous judgement. At least green didn't kick her out. Of course she wanted to know about what was happening with blue, but it was not her place. Simply, she nodded and stood, leaving the room with rowan in arms.

When the door clicked behind her, she moved to the wall across from it and sat there. Mari needed some way of distracting her from all of this and simply began humming to a slightly restless Rowan. It was a gentle lullaby her mother taught her. When she was a child, she believed it had magic powers because after listening, she would always feel calmer and happier. In a way, the lullaby was more for herself.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Zelda nodded. While she did not feel the girl had been wise in this situation, she supposed she could not fault her. She was young, younger than Link and his brothers, she was sure. This whole mess was a naive mistake and nothing more. Zelda could see that this girl had never truly intended to harm Blue or Vio. 

She sighed, nodding at Mariette’s question. “Yes, he was injured. But I am glad to know it was not you who decided to take his anger out on. He’s always had a temper, but it’s been quite some time since I’ve seen him lose control. I feared the worst, if I’m being quite honest.” She frowned. “You have such confidence in him,” Zelda noted. “But I suppose you would. You don’t know…” she trailed off, realizing perhaps she’d said too much. 

She brushed her hand across her desk, frowning at the dust she collected on her fingers. How was it already so filthy? Sighing, she looked back to Mariette. “Anyway, if you’re well enough, I do want you to stay and tend to my little one while I do some work. Perhaps we can talk some more throughout this week, if you would not mind? It may be nice to get your feelings sorted, as you are a member of my staff, I would hate for this incident to end in you feeling uncomfortable to work within the castle.”

-

And so Mariette would return the following day and the next, Zelda keeping the maid rather close. There was the occasional odd encounter with Vio in the halls but, it was nothing of consequence. The man had taken to avoiding Mariette as best he could, so Zelda was sure he was relieved that she had given him a new assistant. At least she hoped so. 

Zelda was at her desk, happy to be able to work (Mari was quite skilled with children, and little Rowan proved to be lest distracting than usual) and catch up on things she’d been missing. Though she did not have full control of Hyrule, as her Father still lived on, she still was swamped, helping him to manage the country. 

Her work would be disrupted though as, suddenly, the doors to her study burst open and in rushed Green - rumpled and out of breath. 

“What is it, dear?” Zelda asked immediately, surprised to see him. He was often in meetings and overseeing other things in the palace, busy as she, so what…what was he doing here in the middle of the day?

The panicked look on his face had her heart sinking.

“It’s Blue,” Green said, a bit too loudly. “Blue he’s…shit.”

“Link? What in the world? Did Vio and Blue…?”

“No, no. Nothing like that. Vio’s not involved but Blue’s gone.”

“What do you mean gone?” Zelda asked, puzzled.

“Missing! He’s…Gods, nobody has seen him all day. We think he left the other night. But he’s gone. His horse, and a fair amount of his stuff and his Four-” Green cut off, noticing only then that Mariette was in the room. He dared not finish his sentence…after all, only a select few knew of the Four Sword…and the fact that it was never returned to its pedestal. 

“What?!” Zelda demanded, standing. Fear and anger in her voice. “Why, why of all things would Blue take that? And where? Have we sent trackers after him? What in the world is going on!? Gods..” Zelda ran her fingers through her hair frustrated. “Is he just protecting it? How long is planning on being gone?”

“Based on what he took, it’s hard to say. But in his current emotional state..” Green couldn’t help but look at Mariette. Though he’d never met her, he’d heard plenty of stories. “I can guess where he might be going.”

“You and the others must go after him immediately. If anyone can bring him back it’s you three.”

“Three? Red, too?” 

“Yes. If he’s off to try and fight…” she trailed off. “Idiot. What an idiot!” 

“I’m sorry..” Green sighed. “I should’ve watched him.”

“No. You couldn’t have predicted this. Just…go. Bring him home, alright? Send Vio and Red my way when you have the chance.”

“Of course. I’ll tell Vio now, I’m sure he already knows.”

“I’m sure he does. I love you.” Zelda murmured.

“Love you, too. It’s going to be alright. We’ll get him back before he does something reckless.” 

Green nodded, cape swishing as he turned and left the room.

[brownstarryeyes]

Mariette was quite appreciating the time with the princess. It was an honor to be in her presence and she observed poise and confidence the maid only wished she could emulate. Talking to her also helped Mari feel better, less completely wiped. It did hurt to occasionally see Vio in the halls...she never saw Blue, much to her relief and dismay. Mariette missed so much about him. His smile, his laugh, his blue eyes. Everything. It hurt to think about, but she had to stay strong at work and strong at home. The only time she allotted thinking about it all was when she was walking home. Alone. She spent her time now at work playing with Rowan, making him happy with games, getting him dressed and cleaned up. It reminded her of when she would help take care of Tauny when he was a toddler. Those were better days. Perhaps a job as a nanny may be a good idea, if being a maid ended up not working out. She knew Princess Zelda would not need her forever.

Her thoughts were interrupted when Green burst into the room. Mari listened quietly with wide eyes as Green explained the situation, however, when he looked to her, she glanced away, guilt filling her heart again. She sunk at bit, though still rocking Rowan gently on her lap. More trouble caused by her. More inconvenience to the others. How much longer did this need to continue? How much more damage could she possible do with such a childish mistake? When she heard the door shut, she looked up again, though this time with tears in her eyes. Blue was missing and it was her fault. 

“I-I’m so sorry, your highness...” she said quietly.Her heard was beating in her chest rapidly, worry and anxiety about blue beginning to spring up through her. What was he doing?? Running so recklessly out there and yet he always lectured her about safety in numbers and being impulsive. And what could she do? Nothing. it wasn’t as if she could go out there looking for him. She could just sit here, useless again

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Zelda glanced up at Mariette, smiling thinly. “The whole truth then….how were you expecting them to handle that?” She asked softly. “After all, while I understand why you did what you did, it still is not something most people do…trying both dresses on at the same time, so to speak.” She sighed. “But it is Blue you love…yes, Link suspected a much…” she admitted. “He told me that the only reason Vio found out was because you had been seeing him less and less…and spending more time with Blue.” She explained. “Vio had suspected you were moving on, I suppose he was too blind to realize it was Blue that was his rival in all of this. And Blue…well, he had no clue about anything, hmm? He’s not keen on surprises…so I am sure he did not handle it well…” she frowned. 

“I must ask…by the way, there are rumors.” She paused. “Blue returned to the castle late in the evening and he was observed to have a bloodied hand. Forgive me for giving such a heinous fabrication such weight but…did he strike you at all, during the events of last night?” Zelda asked, examining Mariette closely - searching for any hint that she might be lying. 

“If so, I would suggest giving both brothers a wide berth…and,” she frowned. “If he did become violent, I would ask you tell us. Blue…has been known to have certain tendencies in the past so he must be carefully watched.” Zelda explained, wishing she could fully explain why she was truly concerned.

Blue, as the aggressive fragment of the Hero’s soul…he had the most potential to fall into a chaotic state. But Mariette would not understand such things…the man, after all, was just a “long lost brother of Link” to most people in Hyrule.

[brownstarryeyes]

“I don’t know...honestly. I guess it was just something I thought would work out if I just...did what was necessary. At least then it wouldn’t have seemed like I was keeping things secret just so I could be with both.” She said tiredly. Of course things could have ended up just like this anyways. The whole situation had become too far gone. When the princess began questioning about the events of the night before, she looked surprised and worried, “Blue’s hand was hurt? No...he didn’t hit me or...anything like that.” But she hadn’t seen him strike the tree, so the matter of how his had gotten bloodied was confusing to her. “He did mention controlling some anger in the past...but he didn’t hit me. I know he wouldn’t even if he was furious...he wouldn’t do that.”

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Zelda smiled, and nodded, straightening as she helped the maid to her feet. “Yes, I have heard of him.” Zelda responded, nodding her head. She studied Mariette and folded her hands in front of her. “As for why I need your assistance, one of my maidens has taken ill. I figured….” she paused, giving Mariette a knowing look. “I figured that you would not mind having a week away from Vio’s office. He will have another maid assigned to him. In the meantime,” she turned, moving down the hall. “Come along. I need you to help me care for my son while I work.” She explained, walking down the hall, checking over her shoulder to be sure Mariette followed her. 

They arrived soon in Zelda’s study, the woman crossing the room to relieve her guard, a Sheikah woman, from her child. 

“Mariette, I am not sure you have met him personally yet but this is Rowan.” She said, picking up the toddler, cradling him before she handed him off to the maid. “I have much work to do, so I cannot spend my time entertaining him.” She laughed, smiling at Mariette. “But…” she sat at her desk, studying the papers spread out there. “While I do need your assistance, you seem an intelligent woman. You must know there is more than one reason why I have brought you here. And no, do not worry, personal issues aside - you are valued on the staff. So you shall not be relieved of your position. But…I am not deaf to the rumors. And I have noticed that my brothers-in-law have been in a foul temper since last evening. I trust you may know why that is?” She studied Mariette a moment, before she sighed. 

“And based on your response to all of this…I trust they are not without guilt as well? Here, dear,” she said, taking a bit of a motherly tone with the younger woman. “Take this.” She said, passing her a kerchief from one of the desk drawers. “And tell me what has happened.”

[askraviostuff]

Mariette almost melted when she was handed the baby. He was so adorable with little chubby cheeks and blonde hair. A bit heavy, but after carrying books this was hardly anything. In her past jobs, she had taken care of infants before so this wasn’t really new. But she was holding the prince and possible future king so…that was a thing.  Her eyes glanced up from the baby’s face to Zelda’s when she began hinting at the stewing drama that was floating around the mouths of the servants in the castle. Her cheeks reddened and she instantly felt embarrassed. Of course she knew that was why Zelda would come to her. Why else would the princess care about her existence? At least hearing that she wouldn’t be fired was good to know. One worry from here mind. One less stressor. She took the handkerchief and sunk down in the chair across from the desk. This was interrupting Zelda work as well. How many more disruptions in people’s lives was she going to cause?

“Well…” she gulped, rocking Rowan idly in her arms, “I had…been in a relationship with Vio, albeit quiet…but intimate I did love him. Blue…might say otherwise, but I wasn’t using him for anything. He’d already asked me to work with him and gave me a significant raise…what on earth could I have possibly wanted besides his affection?” Mari went on to describe that she did love Vio, even if no one believed her, but Blue came into the picture and something about him just starstruck her. “I wanted to be with Blue…I realized but I still had feelings for Vio…I’d never really felt like that for anyone so…I wanted to wait to see if…things with Blue were as they seemed to be. Princess…I will admit I’m selfish…I was afraid of being alone. No men had every cared about me like that before…but Blue captivated me. He’s so…intricate. I was hesitant to make a choice…” At this point the maid was crying, dabbing her eyes with the handkerchief in her free hand. Thankfully she hadn’t bothered with makeup. “Vio found out and told Blue…they both confronted me…” She spoke of the fight, her trying to make her case and the brothers both unwilling to hear it. Subsequent Blue begrudgingly walking her home. the fight in the field. How she felt like they both despised her now, like she was a tricky witch with some master plan. But there had been none. Just a girl who made a mistake. A stupid mistake, but a mistake none the less. She never meant for them to be hurt and, she was nearly ready to decide on which one she would pursue, but before any of that could happen, everything fell apart. And she lost both. Mari hung her head, no longer able to look at the princess out of guilt and unworthiness. “You must think of me as a…whore..” she said with a wavering voice, memories of previous encounters in her mind, more secrets she was hesitant to speak of.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Zelda listened, though she did not look at the maid. She kept her head bent over documents, humming from time to time as the girl explained the whole messy affair. While Zelda did think the girl could have handled it better…it made a great deal more sense than what Link had told her earlier. So animatedly talking of this girl who broke her brother’s hearts on purpose…

Zelda was smart enough to seek more answers. 

“So. you made a mistake.” Zelda said calmly, not looking up from her work. “But your world does not have to end because of it. And the way they treated you..the way you describe it - it was unfair of them. You know Red - or perhaps you call him Theo, still, he…has been involved in a similar situation before. Perhaps I should not be telling you this, but they sided with him in that…” she paused. “Though for Vio and Blue, they both, clearly, feel for you in some way. And you have captured their hearts…they are feeling the effects of that today…” she sighed quietly. 

“I do not feel it is good to have both brothers sulking or in a bad temper, so I would like to seek a solution to this…so I must ask you a bit of a difficult question. I…cannot say your relationships with them would be mended - but who would you have chosen. You say you love them both, but…” she trailed off. To her, it seemed one of the brothers was a mere infatuation…

“And, contrary to what you seem to think, I do not find you worthy of that dirty label. You are simply confused, and young…and no one is without error - especially in matters of the heart.”

[askraviostuff]

Mariette let Rowan take her finger and hold onto it, with him babbling baby talk at her. She listened quietly as Zelda explained that Red had also gotten himself in a jam as well as some point. The brothers were just close and protective. If Tauny was older and had an issue with a girl, for sure she would defend him. Of course she was also more willing to make him admit his own mistakes rather than making it very one sided.  She understood that it was perhaps all too far gone. She would still like to be friends, at least. Vio might be more willing to forgive her at least that much, though Blue seemed so…angry…she couldn’t be sure about him. And that hurt, hurt more than possibly losing Vio. “You may think I’m lying but I was…within the week, going to talk to Blue and Vio…tell them how I felt and the truth…I was going to choose Blue. There’s just something about him…I just love so much…” there was a weak smile on her face. So many things about him, with him, she felt happiness and self-worth than no other ever provided.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

The events of the previous evening were largely unknown - but the rumors began to fly when Blue returned to the palace late in the evening. Hand bloodied and enraged, people assumed the worst. The horrid stories began when Mariette arrived looking weak and tired the following day. 

“Did he hit her?” One maid whispered as she passed. 

“No, Sir Barrett? He would never! Besides, I thought they were seeing each other?”

“That’s my point!”

“Did you see Master Emeryss though? He looked a mess. Perhaps he and Barrett fought!”

“Over someone like her? No way. You know how she gets around.”

“Shh, she’ll hear you!”

Conversations such as these occurred throughout the day, people whispering whenever any of the three involved passed by. Though, when Mariette slumped at the end of the hallway, tearful, only one person remained nearby. 

Zelda had been walking around the palace, and lady that she was, she was always in tune with the latest events. It was for this reason that she sought out the maid, hoping to spare Blue and Vio of her presence, as well as spare the maid of having to wander the halls and listen to the rumors. 

The Princess (not yet Queen due to her father’s hold on the throne) found the maid rather easily, sighing as she saw the girl collapsed - a mess - just outside Vio’s office. She stopped and studied the maid, before she stooped and held out a hand. 

“It is Mariette, correct? Come now. You are needed. I hear you are good with children, correct?”

[brownstarryeyes]

Mariette had been so involved in her misery that she hadn’t heard the footsteps come up the hall. It was only when Princess Zelda spoke that she looked up. THE princess was standing before her, holding out her hand... With uncertainty, she stood up, remembering her manners she curtsied. “Ah...y-yes. I am...” she said. But what did the princess want with her? She had personal handmaidens, Mari was just...a maid. Still she couldn’t question. This was essentially her employer. And future queen. It made her head spin. “I...suppose I am good with children. I have a little brother.” Mari said shifting awkwardly, trying her best to hide her sorry state. “What could I do to help you, princess?”

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Blue watched her. So…weak. Mariette before all this had more spark, more fight to her…he half expected her to yell at him. Tell him he was wrong. But no…easy defeat. She practically rolled over and died. He didn’t know what to feel. 

The man watched her before he walked a few paces in the opposing direction…though he didn’t get far before he cried out again, and swung his fist once more - hitting a nearby tree. The branches shook and trembled, loose leaves fluttering to the ground. 

He stayed there for a moment, hunched by the tree. He huffed, barely registering the split knuckles, blood, and pain. He straightened then, walking back toward the town…shaking, sick with anger and heartbreak. 

[brownstarryeyes]

Mari went home, with Tauny incredibly disappointed that Blue wasn’t with her. She gave him a hug and then proceeded to move on autopilot, preparing dinner for herself and her little brother. A dinner she didn’t eat. Mari just watched Tauny dig in and wondered what the future would hold now. Would she get fired from her job? She couldn’t possibly expect Vio to tolerate her after what she had done. How would she make money? The castle job had been steady and well-paying. Maybe they’ll just...move her. Probably a less satisfactory position. It was fair. She deserved it, after all. If word was already spreading, as gossip typically did, the other maids would probably hate her. They idolized Blue and while they were never the fondest of Vio, they would sympathize with him over a promiscuous woman. Things had been looking up, but now, it seemed, she’d stumbled right back into a ravine. 

The night turned into a sleepless one. Still, in the morning, she got up to go to work. Put on her uniform, kissed a sleeping Tauny on the head and left. Dread hovered over her, but there was one thing preventing her from just curling up in a hole somewhere and it was her little brother. He needed her. She had to work to make sure he could be comfortable. Still, she walked the path towards the castle, practically dragging her feet. It was nice when Blue would come in the morning to save her the walk, but now...

She arrived at work looking sullen and deep purple bags under her eyes. As expected the other servants were whispering. The knight was raging like stampede of angry monsters, it was hard not to notice. Mari ignored them, making her way towards Vio’s office. Once she got to the closed door, she paused, hand hovering over the door knob in hesitation. She backed up, withdrawing the hand to her chest and sinking down on the wall adjacent to the door. How was she going to get through this? How could she even look him in the eye? She sniffled and pushed her face into her knees.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Blue furrowed his brow, and laughed. Laughed in her face. “Not leading us on!?” He demanded, incredulous. “So you think sleeping with my brother while you’re trying to get me to do the same isn’t taking advantage and leading us on!? Are you dense?” he demanded, scoffing and shaking his head. “Scared? Scared of what. That he’d be mad that you started a relationship with someone else, his brother, no less while you were in a relationship with him? Yes. I suppose you should’ve been scared. People don’t do that!”

His rage only increased as she apologized, tried to defend herself against him. “Never intended to get caught? No. I get it. You…you…Gods! And to think I almost-? Ugh!” He turned again, swinging his arm at the air, crying out as he did so. “What gives you the right to act all innocent in this? Your crying and pleading? Mari, you….trying to use my feelings for you to your advantage again?” He asked, his voice was softer, his body less tense. “Forget about it. I’m done with you.”

[brownstarryeyes]

She winced and took a step back, no longer able to look up at him. There was silence, only interrupted by her soft whimpers. “That’s not what I...meant...” she stated, her voice lower now. The reality of it all really starting to sink in. Mariette had been afraid to end her relationship with Vio because she was unsure about hers with Blue. She liked them both quite a bit, for different reasons. Yes she was scared Vio would be mad, but also scared of other things. To cause him pain. He was her friend as much as a lover. Though, she suppose, that was no longer as well.  Was she really playing innocent? Was that the truth? Was this all just a poor way of garnering sympathy in order to get what she wanted?...Probably. Mari tried to be a good person, she really did, but perhaps he was right and she just couldn’t see that. She was doubting herself and her own integrity.

“Okay...” was all she could manage to say, trying to breathe, trying to think. It all felt wrong, as if this was not what fate had intended for them. “You...You don’t have to tolerate me...anymore. I’m sorry...I...I’ll just leave you alone, if that’s...what you want.” She was so weak. A stupid weak little girl who was too afraid to take a chance and lost the game. Mariette took a few steps backwards, towards the darkness that lead home. “Goodbye Blue.”

Mariette turned and started up the dirt path with her spirits low and body tired.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Blue shook his head and raised his hand, how could he accept that? A lame excuse for an explanation for the strain she had caused. “What, you never intended for me to say I loved you? Or you never intended for Vio to get wise and let your little secret out? Which one is it?!” Blue demanded, his voice loud, harsh. He wasn’t holding back now…he couldn’t anymore. 

All the damage she had done, to him and his brother. How could one woman so thoroughly destroy two relationships in the course of one evening? 

“Why lead him on, or were you leading me on?” He asked, he was yelling no more, but his voice was low - threatening. All the suppressed rage of years of careful control was finally coming to the surface - all at once. In his head, in the small rational part he had left, he knew that he didn’t want this. Mariette…he knew, he knew she hadn’t meant harm. How could she? She wasn’t a twisted person…but right now, rage clouded judgement. The pain of heartbreak warped into boiling anger that showed in his red face and shaking body.

“How could you do what you did with no intention of breaking our trust!? It doesn’t make sense. And now…Vio…I’ve worked so hard to feel like I can be on good terms with him and this…this is completely your fault!”

[brownstarryeyes]

Her eyes were wide like a cornered animal. She’d never seen him like this. Blue was always so kind to her, smiling and laughing like a goof. A personality, she thought, that didn’t fit the toughened exterior. But now, he was almost monstrous, towering over her. “I wasn’t leading either of you on! I love you both– I-I was planning on telling Vio, but- I was so scared!” Mariette cried, trying to hold back tears. She was always to strong, or at least tried to give people the perception of that. A hard working girl with a steadfast personality, not the fragmented, brittle person she tried to hide from everyone, including her own brother. It was hard to breathe steadily, every now and then she gasped for air, as if the world was closing in around them despite them standing in an open field on the path way to her home.

“I’m s-sorry! I know that isn’t enough for you, but I’m n-not a vile person! I wasn’t using either of you…I-I didn’t know it would…I never intended-…” Mari’s lip quivered as he continued to shout, his last few words stabbing her deep enough to cause tears to pour out of her eyes. Her entire body was shaking, knees bent as if to keep herself standing.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[stormyeyedknight]

Blue shook his head and raised his hand, how could he accept that? A lame excuse for an explanation for the strain she had caused. “What, you never intended for me to say I loved you? Or you never intended for Vio to get wise and let your little secret out? Which one is it?!” Blue demanded, his voice loud, harsh. He wasn’t holding back now…he couldn’t anymore. 

All the damage she had done, to him and his brother. How could one woman so thoroughly destroy two relationships in the course of one evening? 

“Why lead him on, or were you leading me on?” He asked, he was yelling no more, but his voice was low - threatening. All the suppressed rage of years of careful control was finally coming to the surface - all at once. In his head, in the small rational part he had left, he knew that he didn’t want this. Mariette…he knew, he knew she hadn’t meant harm. How could she? She wasn’t a twisted person…but right now, rage clouded judgement. The pain of heartbreak warped into boiling anger that showed in his red face and shaking body.

“How could you do what you did with no intention of breaking our trust!? It doesn’t make sense. And now…Vio…I’ve worked so hard to feel like I can be on good terms with him and this…this is completely your fault!”

[brownstarryeyes]

Her eyes were wide like a cornered animal. She’d never seen him like this. Blue was always so kind to her, smiling and laughing like a goof. A personality, she thought, that didn’t fit the toughened exterior. But now, he was almost monstrous, towering over her. “I wasn’t leading either of you on! I love you both-- I-I was planning on telling Vio, but- I was so scared!” Mariette cried, trying to hold back tears. She was always to strong, or at least tried to give people the perception of that. A hard working girl with a steadfast personality, not the fragmented, brittle person she tried to hide from everyone, including her own brother. It was hard to breathe steadily, every now and then she gasped for air, as if the world was closing in around them despite them standing in an open field on the path way to her home.

“I’m s-sorry! I know that isn’t enough for you, but I’m n-not a vile person! I wasn’t using either of you...I-I didn’t know it would...I never intended-...” Mari’s lip quivered as he continued to shout, his last few words stabbing her deep enough to cause tears to pour out of her eyes. Her entire body was shaking, knees bent as if to keep herself standing.

[ask4sword]

2. [I] trusted [you]. (Minish rocks!)

Blue’s control was slipping. He’d worked so hard, so carefully these many years to keep himself under control. As a fraction of the Hero, Blue, just like his brothers, was predisposed to act a certain way. Vio, the brains of the original, was cunning, quiet, and serious but also stubborn and set in his ways. Red was loving, vibrant, and happy, but weak when it came to battle and conflict. Blue…Blue was strong, fierce, loyal, but unfortunately was quick to anger.

When he was younger, less experienced, he had trouble controlling his temper. He would spiral out of control, lashing out at those around him. In his youth, this had been a problem. He’d nearly been declined entrance into the Knight Academy alongside Green and Vio. All his life he’d been watched and monitored closely by his father, as if he might snap at any moment.

Any actions out of line, even the slightest bit of anger was met with harsh penalty…even when it was Vio who lost control, Blue still suffered consequences. And so, the man had retrained himself. He’d worked hard to keep his feelings in check, to resist the urge to yell and fight unless he was on the battlefield…he had done well.

But this…

How could she?

Blue’s teeth grit and he spun on his heel, facing the woman he loved. “How could you do this!?” His voice was loud, but they were far from town, so only she would hear his words. “You…I trusted you!”

[brownstarryeyes]

Up until this point there had been silence, the heavy tension haunting the atmosphere around them. Mari kept her gaze low, ashamed, guilty. It would be impossible to plead innocence. She knew what she had done. It was unforgivable. She was foolish.

The tired maid only looked up to him when he so suddenly spun and started to raise his voice. Big brown eyes showed worry, the pain in her soul that she was trying to ignore. She held a hand to her chest, as if to keep her heart from falling from her chest and shattering on the ground. “B-Blue...” she tried, meekly. It was uncharacteristic of her, but Blue was slowly uncovering her whole self. Secrets and weakness. Moral shortcomings. “I never meant for things to get this far- I-I never intended to break your trust or hurt you, or Vio!”

[brownstarryeyes]

Tedious Tasks

[stormyeyedknight]

Blue’s ears pricked up at Mariette’s laughter, and the knight cast a glance her way, raising a brow. “Is it funny?” He asked, not offended, only slightly bemused. “Tauny, did I say something funny?” Blue asked, offering the boy a smile. “Or does your sister commonly laugh at nothing?” He joked, winking at Mariette before he cut off, listening to what Tauny had to say. 

He smiled as the maid translated, his grin rather wide. “You want to be a knight some day?” Blue asked. “It’s a lot of work, you know.” He explained, making eye-contact with the boy. “But if you really want it. Maybe you could be my squire when you’re older enough. If big sister will allow it. What do you think about that?” 

[brownstarryeyes]

The maid smiled, trying hard to stifle more laughter. Tauny nodded at Blue’s mention if Mari did this all the time. He smiled back as well. Mari crossed her arms and tilted her head a bit in mock offense, “How dare I laugh in my own home! Sir Knight, you must have me arrested at once. Treachery has transpired!” Tauny instead kept his eyes on Blue, an innocent seriousness in his gaze. Of course Tauny signed to Mari quickly, asking a bit more about knighthood. Okay be a bit more serious, no need to be so silly. Stop flirting. “Tauny says that he is willing to work really hard to be a knight. And that he doesn’t know what a squire is but he’ll work hard at that too.” She reached over and messed up the boy’s hair, who huffed and tried to fix it immediately.There was a soft smile on her face. Big sister was unsure it but Tauny was still very young. Maybe he’d find interest in a far less violent job.

[brownstarryeyes]

Tedious Tasks

[stormyeyedknight]

Blue blushed, feeling rather foolish as Mariette laughed at him. Was he wrong? He thought he had seen her sign something to the boy before…but, now he was not so sure. She had been talking to the boy after all. Maybe they spoke using their hands and voices? Well, only Mariette used her voice. He looked to Mariette, thanking her softly for the tea, while he waited her response. 

“Oh,” Blue said, nodding, before he lowered his gaze and sipped his tea. He snuck a curious glance at Tauny, watching as the boy made various hand signs, seeming to ask his sister for something. Blue was glad she translated. 

“Oh? Ah…Tauny, right?” Blue said, addressing the boy now. He studied him a moment before he let an easy smile come to his face. “We don’t just save damsels,” Blue said, “We save villages and all sorts of people. We protect Hyrule from bad guys and bad monsters. It’s an amazing job, protecting Hyrule and everyone in it.” He paused. “Do you like knights a lot, Tauny?” 

[askraviostuff]

She giggled at Blue’s reply simply because it was cute and she was surprised he seemed to know how to talk to children well. Maybe it was a part of knight training? Tauny listened before his eyes widened in excitement. It definitely sounded like the stories he’d heard and the paintings he’d seen. Knights were heroes, always swooping in to save the day! When Blue directed a question at him, Tauny paused before awkwardly looking at Mariette. It’d been a while before someone besides his sister addressed him in a way that he couldn’t respond without speaking to them. He signed to her before biting his lip and looking at the table with a bit of embarrassment. “He says he thinks knights are really wonderful and that he would like to become one, someday.” Mari translated. She wouldn’t exactly let that happen. The thought of him going to war…possibly losing him to some beast…for now he could have his fantasy, while the world of heroism seemed to bare never ending goodness. The poor child would cry at even the sight of a dead animal, never mind a human being.

[brownstarryeyes]

[Mariette and her little bro Tauny~]