I don't even know what I'm doing anymore. I write fanfics and draw sometimes. Gay Fairy Godmother | 20 | Queer and full of existential fear AO3 Account
If anyone still cares about Connecting, the original sidlink marriage fic, I’m finally finishing it and hopefully the last chapter will be out by the end of the week ✌️✌️✌️✌️
A warm breeze brushed through the trees, rustling the growing grasses and carrying the sweet scent of flowers downwind from the budding hills. The Hylian Champion and Princess rested on the warmed grass just outside of Castle Town, recently exhausted from an intense training ritual of prayer. Zelda held no wish to return to the castle, and Link kept his objections to himself, though fearing the King would notice his daughter’s absence, still.
The Princess leaned against the trunk of the lone tree in the patch of grass, a small smile gracing her lips as she gazed at the endless fields and forests, finding a sense of peace with her surroundings. Link, from beside her, scanned the treeline intently, his hand twitchy at the hilt of his sword, prepared for any attacks. Zelda turned to him.
“It is lovely, is it not? My favorite time of the season is when the flowers are in full bloom.” She said, her voice wistful. Link hummed in response, and the Princess frowned. “I look forward to doing more research in plant biology, botany is a passion of mine.”
“I know.” Link said with a quick smile, and then turned back to watching the immediate area for incoming danger. Zelda huffed, though she understood the necessity of her knight’s readiness to fight, ever since the incident with the Yiga Clan. Though there was no real reason for him to be so dispassionate around her. She'd seen how he interacted with the other Champions, how close he was with the Zora Champion Mipha and the Goron Champion Daruk. Although he was still stoic and the difference wasn't immense, he seemed more friendly with them. Zelda wondered if it was her own strong personality causing the issue, or simply the fact that she was the heir to the throne.
“So Link, do you have anything you're passionate about? A hobby or something of the like?” She cleared her throat, hoping to get the Hero to open up more. “And please refrain from saying ‘protecting me,’ I mean something that you find joy in doing.”
Link frowned for a moment, and paused. “Embroidery.”
“Embroidery?” Zelda snorted, taking it almost as a joke. Though, she didn't expect such an immediate answer, and she'd never known Link as a jester. She frowned. Perhaps he was serious? He always was. Such an effeminate response was certainly unexpected, seeming unlikely to be aligned with his other skills.
“Embroidery.” He said softer, a smile on his lips and seemingly unphased by the Princess’ initially rude reaction.
“I apologize for my bluntness, but I would have never guessed that you would be one to take on embroidery.” Zelda quirked a brow. Link chuckled quietly.
“Most people don't know.” He shrugged, and rested his hands in the sun-warmed grass. The Princess turned to face him fully, curious. Although his direction was still to the trees, Link seemed relaxed for once.
“I am curious, where did you learn such a thing?” Zelda asked, propping her chin atop her hand as she leaned forward. Link paused for a moment, opening his mouth and then closing it with furrowed brows, as if willing himself to speak. He cleared his throat lightly, blinking away apprehension. His expression was replaced with that of nostalgia.
“In the drawing room of the castle, there's a needlepoint tapestry of the former kings. My mother was very skilled, in needlepoint and traditional embroidery pieces, she was also known to work with the royal tailors from time to time. When I was younger she would work on that tapestry day in and day out, and she taught me as I watched. When I wasn't training to become a knight, I tasked myself with the flowered border and eventually the rest of the tapestry when my mother fell ill.” Link spoke fondly, his voice losing the monotonous quality that Zelda had become accustomed to hearing. She gaped at him, her breath catching at the sincerity of the confession.
“I believe that this is the most you have ever spoken to me.” She shook her head. “I am sorry to hear about your mother, Link. I had no idea… I am sure that you share her talents, as I recall that very tapestry as my favorite when my father first had it hung. The details are very refined and both yours and your mother’s work blends so nicely—you are truly talented, and I am happy to know that this is a skill you hold fondly in her memory. I will assure the preservation of that tapestry at all costs, my Knight.” Zelda bowed her head forward, her hand on her chest. Link shrugged, his gaze never wavering from the horizon for attackers, though his expression was that of gratitude. He sighed. The Princess leaned back against the tree, humming thoughtfully. Truly, she knew very little about the the other Hylian. Now, all she knew was that he was a Hero of prophecy, her appointed knight, and that he embroidered with his mother when he was a child. She pursed her lips.
“Is there anyone special in your life?” She asked, folding her arms across her chest. Link finally drew away from his duties with a quick swivel of his neck, and stared at the Princess with wide and confused eyes.
“There’s no time for that.” He frowned.
“Of course there is. Perhaps it would be an incentive to not be so reckless and to stay alive.” Zelda huffed. She uncrossed her arms, and genuine curiosity replaced the irritation in her expression. “Do you wish that you had someone special?”
“No.” Link’s spoke indignantly, before looking back to the trees.
“Truly? What about the one girl who always blushes when you look at her? The one at the market in Castle Town?”
“No.”
“What about that one maid in the castle? The one with the red hair? Or any of the other maids for that matter?” Zelda tried, frowning.
“No.”
“The cook’s assistant? She always gives you extra at meals.”
“No.”
“What about the Zora Champion Mipha?”
“What? Mipha is my-”
“Or one of those Sheikah girls? What about Purah?”
Link sighed and shook his head, knocking it back against the tree behind him. Zelda watched his expression, catching the small smile on his lips. She grinned herself. If anything she was getting closer with him, and getting him to be friendlier with her. If he opened up more to her, then it was a start.
~*~*~
The Hylian Princess and Champion stood outside the door leading into the throne room, both preparing for the meeting beyond the archway. Link frowned. Chewing on his lips slightly, he shifted. The documents, they had to have some problem with them. Right? There had to be some illegible important section, stained in soot and ash or charred at the ends, something to make them unusable. There had to be. He wasn't even quite sure why there had to be, there just did. Sidon was his friend and he couldn't let him down.
Zelda stood aside with her head held high, calm and regal. A smile quirked at her lips, knowing well that there would be no documents presented this day.
An armored Zora appeared from the left side of the arch with a smile. She paused in front of them, her shoulders relaxed. A young guard.
“The King and his council of elders will see you.” The Zora smiled, bowing to the Princess. Link nodded gravely, drawing a deep breath as he stepped forward below the arch. Zelda caught his arm, her form still as stone.
“Link. I believe that it would be in our best interest if you were to not attend this meeting.” She spoke, attempting to keep her expression blank and voice monotonous. The Hylian Champion looked back over his shoulder, bewilderment and curiosity blanketing his features.
“But why?” He blinked and furrowed his brows. Zelda gave a gentle smile in return.
“I know how much you detest politics, Link. This shouldn’t take very long, I am certain that these documents will be enough to get you out of this unfortunate mess.” She patted the leather satchel at her hip for effect, biting back a grin as Link visibly deflated at her words.
“Are you sure?” He asked weakly, his disappointment apparent. The Princess touched his arm in reassurance, giving one firm nod.
“I am. Now go, Link. I’m sure you have other important duties to occupy you. Saying your farewells, packing Ayla’s bags perhaps.” She waved a hand dismissively.
Link gave her a brief incredulous look from the suddenness of the decision, but sighed and turned away even so. The Princess stared after him as he left before turning on her own heel sharply, striding into the throne room and onto the dais. Muzu bowed his head to her in acknowledgment.
“Allow me to welcome Zelda, Princess and soon to be Queen of Hyrule.” He cleared his throat, and moved back to the rest of the council. Zelda stood on the dais before the Zora King once more with a graceful smile, bowing. King Dorephan looked down on her.
“Welcome, Princess Zelda. My greatest apologies for the delay due to the rain and storms. I am quite aware of how sudden this must be for you.” He spoke, his deep voice a rumbling and warm presence.
“It is no matter, your Highness. While it is certainly shocking news, I value the extra time I was given to determine the situation before our meeting.” Zelda folded her hands over the front of the pleats on her skirt. The King nodded with a pleased smile.
“Good, good. Now, Princess Zelda. I am certain you know why you are here. My son had intended to ask your hand in marriage to which you refused, and that resulted in his engagement to the messenger; your knight. I am aware of your personal distaste for my son, but Princess Zelda, we as a people beg of you to ratify their engagement to benefit our kingdoms.” The King leaned forward in his seat, as if the action would disallow the council from hearing. “And to benefit Prince Sidon. I wish for him to marry for love, as is traditionally ideal of our culture. I believe it may be good for your knight as well. I have known him since he was a young child and his connection with the Prince is unique.” King Dorephan sat back in his seat with a grandfatherly look to him. All of the council members from aside, save for Muzu, sat with their arms crossed and mumbling amongst themselves. Zelda nodded from the dais, sharing a knowing smile with the King.
“While it was set without my knowledge or permission initially, I do not oppose to their marriage. I had intended to disapprove and searched for the necessary documents to no longer require a wedding of the kingdoms at length, after observing Link and Prince Sidon together I believe that they are… a suitable match.”
“A good pair indeed. My son has already gifted the Zora’s Sapphire to Link. I am unsure that we could undo the engagement even if we wanted to.” The King let out a rumbling laugh, and settled into the throne. Muzu hushed the other council members who had begun to verbalize their defiance. Zelda sighed.
“Yes, I am aware of that. While Link does not know the true depth of that symbol yet, I truly hope that your prince knows what he is doing.” She shook her head with a huff.
“My son was always eager to find love as his sister had, I am just glad that he chose Link as his life partner rather than the first Zora to love him for his status.” The King took on a different expression that vanished within moments. The hall was silence for a moment, before an elder of the council stood, his fins dragging behind as he moved.
“We will benefit from this pairing still however, will we not?” His withered voice broke the silence, still firey from the prospect of the marriage. Zelda nodded, revering her expression to that of her duties.
“Yes. Once Hyrule is once again at it’s peak, the Zora kingdom as a whole will see an immense increase in exported goods through the Hylian kingdom from other tribes your people cannot solely reach.”
“I will personally see to the ratification process and necessary papers to make their engagement a matter of official business, then.” Muzu stood, folding his fins behind his back. “Council is dismissed.”
Zelda stood on the dais for a moment watching the elder Zora of the council disperse in a huffing manner, a few of them bickering in tight groups. She turned back to the King.
“Thank you for meeting with me, King Dorephan. I know that I have been an unpleasant presence but I will remain until the ceremony to oversee the process and their connection. Should Link have second thoughts, do not make him follow through. I wish for his happiness, he should not feel as though he is doing his kingdom a favor by this arrangement.” She spoke sternly, her hands folded behind her back. The King nodded with a smile.
“I agree to those terms, however I feel as though it will not be a problem. I trust that you will report to me how they are and if there are any issues, Princess Zelda?”
“Certainly, I will keep close track of their progress during my stay.” She smiled, a glint in her eye. Before the King could respond, she turned on her heel and made her way the arches of the throne room.
Link wasn’t waiting outside. Zelda scanned the immediate area and frowned, making her way down the stairs she searched for the little Hylian amongst the crowds of towering Zora.
In front of the inn, Link stood out with a Zora woman, a child, and another Hylian man. She approached with curiosity, a brow quirked.
“I’m sure that they’ll be done any minute.” The Zora woman spoke, her eyes drifting in the Princess’ direction. She paused, and split into a grin as she realized who the Hylian woman coming towards them was. “Look! There she is now!” The Zora women placed a hand on Link’s shoulder, and he turned. The other man bowed. Zelda gave a smile.
“May I have a moment of his time alone, please?’ She asked.
“Of course your Highness.” The Zora woman nodded, ushering the child and Hylian along into the inn. Zelda turned to Link once they were inside, and pulled him off to the side railing. He raised a brow.
“How did the meeting go?”
“It was awful Link, I am so very sorry.” The Princess sighed a little over-dramatically. “The documents were the incorrect version of the treaties, the true ones were burned in attempts to sever the kingdom’s ties.”
“So what does this mean?” Link’s brows furrowed deeply, his expression that of confusion but edging on hope.
“It means that, as things are, you must still marry Prince Sidon.” Zelda turned away, unable to sustain her grin after seeing her knight’s eyes light up.
“Really?” He said, much too quickly, and much too excited. Zelda reigned her expression and turned back to the Hylian Champion. She nodded gravely.
“Yes, I am afraid so. However, if you do have second thoughts about this, I will always find another option for you.”
“Don’t worry, I won’t let you down!” Link gave a wide grin, the kind of smile that even the Princess herself would not have seen one-hundred years prior.
“You never do.” Zelda sighed, her eyes softening. Link threw a glance back towards the inn.
“So you’re going to stay around here for a little while now. Would you like to meet my friends?”
~*~*~
Link stood at the Zora Prince’s door, his hand lingering over the coral knob.
Zelda had left to organize the papers or some other political business that Link hadn’t exactly paid enough attention to after introducing her to Kodah and her family. Zelda told him that she would return before nightfall, but he could be off with his friends once more if he wished to be. After saying his farewells to Kodah, Link was left to his own devices. After being so sure that the engagement to Prince Sidon would be withdrawn and then given that chance back, the Hero’s emotions had elated ten-fold and his heart pounded in his chest in an odd manner as he stood in front of the Prince’s room door.
He hadn’t seen Sidon since the previous day, and wondered if he was feeling better. Link hoped so, he wanted to share his excitement with the Prince. See him smile once more, even. With a deep and determined breath, Link shoved the door open, bracing to see the Prince. His fiancé.
Sidon sat the the edge of the pool that served as his chambers, his legs submerged in the water and the ringlets at his calves moving away in a steady rhythm of tiny waves. In his hands, he studied a familiar object. The Silverscale caught in the light, and Link realized; Sidon held the choker that he had made and had broken in the thunderstorm, and he was scraping at it with a tool much too small for his fingers.
So engrossed in his task, the Prince had not even noticed Link open the door. The Champion’s heart stuttered at the sight, and he wondered if the Prince really didn’t know if the marriage was still on.
“So this is where you’ve been.” Link spoke quietly as he approached the Prince. Sidon blinked in surprise, but looked up with a dashing grin even so.
“Link! I was not expecting you to come here, I was hoping to surprise you, but…” He said with a chuckle, waving the necklace around. Link gave a relieved smile, happy to see the Prince acting like he was used to.
“Oh, I’m sorry. It’s just that I haven’t been able to spend much time with you, and I haven’t seen you anywhere today. I guess this is why, huh?” Link sat next to Sidon on the edge of the pool, tucking his feet underneath him as to not get his boots wet. Sidon nodded.
“I wanted to fix this as soon as possible. How did the meeting go?” He asked. Link only shrugged, laying back on the slick stone floor.
“Zelda didn’t want me there, but she told me there was an issue with the documents that she found. She’s with Muzu now I think, wedding planning I suppose.” He smiled. Sidon gazed over the Hylian, his jaw slackening to reveal the tiny tips of his teeth. He blinked.
“Truly? That is wonderful news! I cannot think of any other that I would rather be wed to!” Sidon beamed, and exhaled slowly, as if staring upon a star, or some other otherworldly body for the first time. Reluctantly, he dragged his gaze back down towards the chain of the choker. Link felt his heart speed up, and his cheeks flush deeply.
“You’ve been fixing that this entire time?” Link spoke softly, and with a small smile tugging at his lips. He felt as though he were drunk with giddiness in some odd way, watching the Prince. Sidon nodded, almost sheepish. “The wedding was supposed to be canceled, and yet you fixed it immediately.”
“That is only even more of an incentive to repair it as soon as possible. How else could I have ensured that you had received it before your departure?” Sidon kept his attention fixed on the piece, and it tightened in his grip. Link frowned.
“Isn't it supposed to be an engagement gift to whoever you marry?” He asked, sitting up on his elbows. Sidon looked away from the necklace finally, with a curious expression, and motioned the Hylian closer. Link sat up fully and scooted forward, shaking his boots off and rolling his trousers as he went. He sat close enough for their thighs to touch as he lowered his legs into the cool water. Sidon flashed a bright smile, and tipped the choker forward to show off the work he had done to the clasp. It was nearly fully repaired, the intricate details returning to the piece.
“It was a gift for you, my treasure. You are my betrothed, and I would not reclaim a gift that I had given to you just because our engagement was abolished.” Sidon smiled, his eyes softening. “Besides…”
“Besides?” Link asked, twirling the tips of his hair between his fingers, feeling his cheeks and chest remain scorching hot.
“I did not make this in the time that I was gone the first days after our engagement. That simply isn’t enough time, even for the most skilled craftsman, and I learned metals and gems for the sole purpose of this necklace. It is a piece that takes many months of dedication, even with the exact knowledge, to craft.” The Prince told him, rubbing his thumb in circles over the metal fondly. Link furrowed his brow.
“Are you saying that you’ve had the necklace since before the engagement?”
“Yes. When I was a child, I had a heart for exploring all of the rivers and lakes in the surrounding area. I liked to pretend I was a knight, or a hero of some form, and my sister encouraged it. She would come along and tell me that I would protect her, although I knew she simply joined to ensure my own safely…” Sidon smiled wistfully. “There was one instance where I had gone swimming and went too far. Without Mipha, I swam into Rutala River rather than returning to the Domain. Needless to say, my father and sister scolded me harshly for doing such a foolish thing. You see, at the time, Rutala River had been swept with bokoblin camps, it was certainly no place for a child such as myself. Regardless, I went alone and returned with a stone from the riverbed. The stone, it seemed to call to me at the time, and I needed it in return…”
Link listened to the Prince’s story contently, watching as Sidon ran the point of his nail over the shimmering blue gem inset into the choker in an almost loving manner.
“I later discovered that the stone I had acquired was a raw Zora’s Sapphire, which is a gem of legend all but extinct now and unlike any other stone or sapphire. It is rare and impossible to find, and thousands of years ago, a single stone was passed down through generations of princess’ in the Zora’s royal family as a traditional symbol of… marriage. When I was small I thought it was luck, but lately I have been wondering if it was fate.”
“So you kept it until you proposed to someone?” Link asked, kicking his feet a little in the water. It splashed further up his trousers, and he grimaced. Sidon chuckled and shook his head.
“Almost. I had been planning a choker ever since the day that Dento appraised it as a Zora’s Sapphire, and I had Muzu teach me the traditions involving the gemstone. Dento taught me the art of metalsmithing and lapidary over the course of many years to become proficient in the arts. Once I felt I was confident in both, I created this choker from my own two hands, pouring all of my work and determination into this one piece.” Sidon breathed in, staring at the necklace with an undeniable sense of pride. Link followed suit, blinking at the necklace in awe for a moment, before frowning once more, his initial question remaining unanswered.
“If you had made it already, then why did you have to leave in the beginning of our engagement?” He asked.
“I did make it many years ago and kept it safe, yes. That is why it is in it’s current state, I foolishly crafted it with Silverscale, which is prettier, stronger, and more expensive, but it is also highly conductive as opposed to the special alloy we Zoras use in our armor and typical jewelry. Since I made it years ago, it was built to fit the neck of a Zora perfectly, as I had never expected to be wedded to a Hylian. I am so very glad to be marrying you, do not worry, dear friend! It is just that your race is much different in structure than my own, shorter and much more delicate. I spent those days without rest, using my sister’s notes on your own dimensions when she made your armor. You see, the choker was crafted with a future in mind, but those days and nights I altered it, I thought of only you, my closest friend. It was no longer and is no longer a gift for anyone. It is for you, and I would have never kept it to myself should we had no longer been wed.”
Sidon was now gazing at Link with a certain fondness in his eye, allowing his hand to wander atop the Hylian’s own, resting their hands together with a certainty to the action. Link flickered his gaze from Sidon’s to the necklace again, staring at the fine details, the swirling metal twisting and weaving together in an elegant pattern that could only have taken years to perfect, moving inward and presenting the center of the piece; the Zora’s Sapphire. Something so rare to even see, let alone be gifted by a prince.
“Thank you.” Link said quietly, his voice had grown hoarse. His eyes met Sidon’s once more, and the Zora Prince only smiled, raising a hand to cup Link’s cheek gently. He let his hand drop as soon as their skin grazed, and Sidon returned to his task of repairing the choker with a smile.
~*~*~
As the day wore on, Sidon’s duties caught up with him. He moved to his study after bidding Link farewell, and they found their separate ways. Muzu had come to the Prince’s door with various papers and notes from his earlier meeting with Princess Zelda, allowing a strange look to cross his features when he noticed the Hylian at Sidon’s pool. He was a lenient Zora, but still found the pair’s closeness before marriage disconcerting due to customs. He shook his head, and Sidon only blushed at what Muzu must have inferred.
Regardless, Sidon had duties to attend to. He was to go over and sign treaties and contracts, more so than usual with the talk of Hyrule Kingdom’s possible trade routes. As it was, Zora’s Domain was in the best position to be in with the Hylians, with the wedding under way. But that also meant for more paperwork, which fell upon the Prince’s shoulders. Already losing himself in the monotony of each scribbled word, Sidon barely registered the quiet knock on the door. He looked up with a start.
“Come in!” He called, rubbing at his temples and grateful for the excuse to pause in his work.
“Good evening, Sidon. I apologize for interrupting you in your private study unannounced.” Zelda shut the door behind her, and she smiled gracefully. Sidon shook his head.
“It is no trouble, Princess. I have heard the news that you allowed for the wedding to continue, it is truly fantastic to hear!” The Prince clasped his hands together, his energy renewed. Zelda warmed at that.
“Yes, as I have said before I am quite certain that Link returns your affections and I will do what I can to keep him happy.”
“And you think I can make him happy?” Sidon asked, turning in his chair to face the Princess. Even sitting, his height met hers. Zelda nodded, pulling a journal from the satchel she carried at her hip.
“I am, and from my observations it is highly likely that abolishing the engagement would only cause him harm. But I must ensure that he recognizes his feelings for himself, and that he may admit them freely lest you both live married and in love but separate like you foolish men are bound to do.” She flipped through the pages of the journal, beginning to pace the enclosed study space. Sidon blinked.
“Love? I am unsure, well, what is it that you have in mind, Princess?” Sidon stuttered, feeling his face warm. Zelda huffed.
“You have feelings for Link, yes?”
“Well yes, but-”
“And I am positive that he has feelings for you as well, but he can be… dense at times. And so I have a plan.” The Princess smiled, the type of smile that made Sidon uneasy.
“A plan?” He frowned, the doubt in his voice rising. “What kind of plan?”
“A plan that involves science. The science of love of course!” Zelda clapped her hands together, a fire in her eyes. “Before the calamity, I had access to the best tutors my family could offer, who taught many subjects. Because of that, I also had many different libraries as a resource when I was younger. I used to take books without my father’s knowledge, and I studied all I could.”
“And this relates to love?” Sidon looked at the Princess, skeptical.
“One such collection of books I had retrieved was in depth research done by the ancient Sheikah on the science of love. I found those books recently during the restoration of the royal library, however they were too damaged to reread and I had no use to do so at the time of their discovery, but I still remember some of it.”
The Zora Prince looked away, his features a mask of uncertainty. If it was true that Link already shared his affections then why would they need to go through entire detailed plan? Could they not just ask the Hero? Though, if Link didn’t, then maybe the plan was necessary…
“What do you have in mind, Princess?” He asked. Zelda smiled, and pulled over a chair to the Prince, as if only then their conversation could be confidential.
“According to the old studies, love is entirely chemical responses of the body. Which makes sense, as it is chemically, how your bodies balance one another and how you interact. I suppose it’s the same reason why you blush when we talk about him, since his genes must compliment yours.” Zelda grinned, watching the Zora’s eyes widen and his cheeks flare. “Somewhere, I imagine that you and Link are a fairly perfect match which is only aided by, or perhaps the cause of why you get along so well. I believe that by using various techniques to evoke certain reactions, we can make our Champion realize how he feels, or at least force him to experience it more deeply.” Zelda flipped through her journal as she spoke, her eyes wildly scanning the pages as she went. Sidon blinked curiously, still uneasy about the prospect of it but also in seeing a new and terrifyingly brilliant side to the Hylian Princess.
“And...what do you have in mind for us to do?” He asked.
“We will start you off with a small date. You will need to have a lot of physical contact with him, cuddling or hand holding, or even simple brushes of the shoulder or skin. Perhaps swimming. An increase of adrenaline may be beneficial to us in this situation.” The Princess’ fingers stroked her chin in a thoughtful manner, seemingly lost in thought. Sidon watched on in part amusement, part hesitance.
“And this is all?” He exhaled, although unsure he was relieved that Zelda had nothing drastic in mind.
“No, no. Of course not, it is not so simple. He tends to be empty-headed at times, he may need more of a push. I have not smoothed out the details, however I remember it is essential to maintain prolonged contact.” Zelda huffed from her journal, jotting notes with a pen she’d swiped from the Prince’s desk.
“We spend quite some time together regardless.” Sidon hummed, silently noting the stolen pen. It was a coral tipped one, too.
“Even more” Zelda said. Sidon looked up, and pursed his lips. “Body language is very important.”
“Is this all very vital? Hylian customs seem so much more confusing than Zoras.” The Prince frowned, but kept hopeful that he could win over the Champion before the wedding day.
“Do not worry, Sidon. I will work on the details and calculate every possible scenario to ensure our projected outcome. Leave it to me!” Zelda grinned, standing with a certain suddenness and almost excitement.
“Alright, Zelda.” Sidon sighed with a light smile. The Princess knew what she was doing, she defeated Calamity Ganon with Link, who was by far the most impressive person he knew. He could trust Zelda.
“Have a good night, Prince.” Zelda bowed slightly before exiting the room with a small click of the door. Sidon sat still for a moment, wondering if perhaps it was all a bit too much. The Hylian Princess seemed eccentric in her passions, which he supposed was ideal then to place his trust in her. She was knowledgeable, and trustworthy. Other than the fact that she took the pen.
~*~*~
With her hand on the knob of her own door, the one to her right creaked open. The Princess and Champion shared startled looks, and Link paused for a moment before blinking.
“Zelda? Oh, I was just about to look for you.” He broke the silence, and Zelda raised a brow.
“Yes? What is it?” She asked.
“I may need your help with something.” Link gave a sheepish look, reaching his arm up to scratch the back of his neck. Zelda grinned, catlike.
“Is this about Prince Sidon by chance?”
“Is it that obvious?” Link’s shoulders slumped, and his cheeks reddened.
“No, not necessarily, but I have known you for a very long time now Link. You used to be very quiet, I’ve become quite good at reading you.” She chuckled. Link rolled his eyes, and opened his door wider, motioning the Princess inside.
“Would you care to speak in private?” He asked. “I wouldn’t want to risk the Prince overhearing.”
“Oh, no, of course not.” Zelda chuckled as she slipped past her own door back into the hall and then through to Link’s room with a quiet click of his door. She carefully pulled the chair from his desk and perched on the edge of it. Link settled onto the waterbed with a sigh.
“What is troubling you, my Knight?” The Princess rested her chin in her hand gently. Link pursed his lips, glancing away.
“Today Sidon was fixing the choker, and he said some things…” He trailed.
“Yes?” Zelda tilted her head with a helpless smile. Link looked up with a forced yet determined expression.
“I would like to make a gift for him in return.” He nodded to himself.
“And you would like my opinion, is that it?” Zelda smiled. Link made a sort of grunt in affirmation, and the Princess’ grin widened.
“I know that he said it isn’t necessary to do, but I want to. He’s important to me, so he should have something too. Maybe not jewelry, I’m no smith.” The Hylian Champion looked down. Zelda hummed to herself. He wanted to make Sidon a gift? Her thoughts immediately were drawn to the tapestry recently unearthed from the castle ruins. It was scorched at the edges and torn, however the mastery was still clear in the salvageable pieces. Some stitches were undoubtedly lost to the modern craft as the few with such knowledge passed with the Calamity. All but Link.
Zelda remembered that day so long ago, the she had brought Link to the drawing room and demanded he show her his work. His embarrassment was evident as he spoke of his own piece, which parts he’d done and which had been his mother’s work. The names of the stitches he had used—Zelda couldn’t understand a word of it, but he was passionate about the craft so she didn’t very much mind.
“Link, we found something recently in the castle.” She spoke suddenly.
"Yes?” He asked, confused about the seemingly unrelated outburst after a stretch of silence.
“The tapestry. It is not completely without damage but we found it.” Zelda said, softer. Link raised a brow.
“I’m still unsure of what you’re trying to say but I am glad that my mother’s work survived the fires.”
“Link, it was your work as well was it not?” Zelda pointed with a grin, hinting with a lilt of her voice. She rolled her eyes when the Hero only blinked at her, not fully grasping what she was implying. He opened his mouth in silent awe when the realization dawned on him what the Princess meant.
“Wait, are you saying I should embroider something for him?” He asked incredulously, and Zelda gave a happy nod.
“It is a skill of yours that truly shows a different side of you that few are able to see. I believe that Prince Sidon would be glad to have something made by your own hand, and besides I daresay it is as rare as any sapphire. The methods of Hylian embroidery have been long since forgotten after the Calamity.”
“Well, perhaps not that invaluable, though what would I even embroider?” Link sighed, glancing around the room for any semblance of inspiration. Zelda shook her head.
“It is not necessary to create a whole tapestry, that would take much too long. Something on a smaller scale of course. But what exactly to make is for you to decide, it is your gift and your prince after all.” She chuckled as Link’s cheeks reddened. He fell backwards into the bed with a ripple and trained his eyes on the ceiling in thought. Zelda shook her head fondly.
“You still have time before the wedding, Link. Why don’t you think of something that has meaning to both of you?” She suggested lightly. Link nodded from his spot on the bed. “For now however, I must go. I am excited to know your plans for it though.”
The Princess smiled again before standing. Her plans were coming together on their own even. She slipped out the door with a light pat on the Champion’s knee.
Link sighed, a fuzzy feeling rising in his chest. It was nice to see Zelda happier and more accepting of the idea of his marriage, and to see Sidon acting normal again. He was happy to have an idea of what to make for the Prince but he still needed to know what to do. And if he even remembered how to embroider like he used to.
~*~*~
“And what is it that we’re doing?” Link looked up, shielding his gaze from the sun with a hand. Sidon fidgeted with his fingers, and gave his betrothed a smile.
“I thought we might… dive from Shatterback Point today.” He gave, sounding unsure of himself.
“This isn’t normally what you decide for a date.” Link hummed. Sidon chuckled, resting a hand heavily on the Hylian’s shoulder.
“Yes, but I thought we might try something new today.”
Sidon was instructed to try something that would evoke adrenaline, and he would do just that. Though he didn’t know what could cause Link excitement, he’s been all over Hyrule and fought more monsters than Sidon was comfortable imagining. Regardless, it would supposedly aid in forcing Link to admit his feelings. He would trust the Princess.
They reached the peak with little trouble. Link stook at the cliff’s edge for a moment staring down at the sparkling waters below, marveling at the view. Sidon only watched Link with a content smile, seeing the breeze blow through the Hylian’s loose hair, his bright blue eyes shining as he took in his surroundings. Link turned, and Sidon sputtered as if caught seeing something he shouldn’t.
“What was your plan?” Link asked, disregarding the Prince’s behavior.
“We will dive, together.” Sidon reached out his hand and took the Hylian’s in his own, stepping backwards. Link followed suit quietly, though the very tips of his ears heated.
“On three?” Sidon suggested, unsure with Princess Zelda’s methods. Link chucked.
“One…” The Hylian began with a laugh.
“Two…” Sidon took another quick glance at Link, who flashed a smile. The Prince’s heart stuttered.
“Three!” Link shouted, barreling forward and dragging the dazed Prince with him. The pair dove off of the cliff’s edge, Sidon much less gracefully than he might have planned, but Link didn’t seem to mind as he soared towards the rippling waters.
Sidon knew this dive, and he was certain that Link did as well. It was different knowing that someone was falling beside him however, falling beside the only person he truly cared for like this. It wasn’t the water Sidon was looking at when his outstretched fingers finally cut through the surface and his body glided deep underwater. He kicked upwards, emerging from the reservoir with a splash. Link broke the surface just after the Zora Prince with a heavy intake of breath and a laugh as he pushed the hair out of his eyes.
“It’s a strange way to start the day, but fun anyways.” Link said with a laugh, panting from the endeavor. Sidon couldn’t help but laugh along with him as they made their way back to the quay. Link was a perfectly capable swimmer, but he was no Zora. Sidon hung close to his side as they made their way back.
Ensuring himself behind the Hylian as they neared the quay, Sidon’s hands hovered above Link’s middle as he pulled himself up should he have needed assistance from the extensive swim. Easily enough on his own, Link stood on the quay with a little extra arm strength. Sidon came up after him, grinning as he heard the small gasp from in front of him.
“What is all this?” Link gaped, wringing his hair out between his hands and staring at the selection before him. Meticulously on the quay a sheet was laid out covered in a variety of fish and fruit dishes.
“I thought a picnic might be nice.” Sidon laughed as he approached, watching Link nearly drool over the platters.
“How did you even have the time to set this up? I’ve been with you all day.” Link asked, looking up at the Prince. Sidon placed a gentle hand on the Hylian’s back, guiding him to the blanket.
“I had some help.” Sidon admitted, sheepish. Link raised a brow, but smiled anyways. Sitting down, he immediately set to rifling through the selection to see what goods there was to offer. Simmered fruits, sushi, mushroom risotto… It all looked really good.
“For you, my fiancé.” Sidon set himself right beside Link, ensuring they were close enough that their thighs met and his arm brushed the Hylian’s when he reached over. Link shrugged at the closeness, much too occupied on the meal.
It didn’t last very long with Link present, but there were many occasions where Sidon’s hand would touch Link’s and linger before pulling away. Each time Link would took over, and Sidon would look away with an almost embarrassed expression. The Hylian didn’t know what to make of the behavior.
“Did you enjoy it?” Sidon asked quietly. Link nodded, and the Prince let out a breath. “That’s good, I am glad.”
“Thank you.” Link gave a bright smile, and took Sidon’s into his own with a gentle squeeze. The Zora blinked in surprise, but smiled at Link all the same. They sat together, hand in hand and within their own thoughts, watching the sunset reflect off of the calm waters.
~*~*~
In attempts to ease Link into the role of being Prince Consort and eventually King’s Consort, the Hylian was to accompany his betrothed to his hearings. As Zora Prince, Sidon’s duties were appointed to prepare him for the throne, given reign over the public hearings and militia. King Dorephan watched on, assessing his son’s work. Link stood beside Sidon, both aside from the main throne where Dorephan was set. With his hand at rest upon Link’s shoulder, Sidon’s expression was stoic and princely, ever the drastic change from his typical demeanor. Zelda stood opposing, viewing from her own curiosity and watching the pair before her like a hawk.
The council’s elder Seggin held the floor, though Prince Sidon’s eyes were drawn away from the dais where he stood. His gaze was trained on his fiancé, who shifted where he stood as he listened to Seggin.
“That is my own opinion on shock resistance training for our soldiers.” The Zora threw his hands up with a firm nod. Link’s brow furrowed, and Sidon looked up to the elder.
“You know as well as I do why we cannot do that, Seggin.” Sidon gave, allowing his eyes to trail away from the Hylian for a moment.
“That sounds more like torture than a training regiment. Your troops will have access to Hylian warriors and archers alike within the next few months, why don’t you make a balance of spear-wielding and water resistant Zora and shock archer Hylian forces? That way you don’t have to risk your own people’s lives and have a more effective fleet of soldiers.” Link suggested from beside the Prince, earning an approving huff from the King and a light squeeze on the shoulder from Sidon. Seggin just scoffed.
“Preposterous! I am sure with enough training, any of us can wield shock arrows and protect Zora’s Domain ourselves!” He said, crossing his arms bitterly. “Especially my boy, Bazz. Unfortunately he’s been far too busy off canoodling with that guard to think about such important matters.”
Link looked up at the elder in surprise, though Sidon didn’t seem phased at all. His thumb moved in circles, gently massaging the Hylian’s shoulder.
“Excuse me?” Link furrowed his brows, and Seggin shot him an annoyed look.
“Are you hard of hearing, boy? Such a tragic thing for one your age! My son, Bazz has been shirking his duties to sneak off with the gate guard Rivan! He likes to think it is a secret, but those two are about as sneaky as a glowing snail!” He ranted, nearly spitting on the dais beneath him.
“Now Seggin, it is not the court’s business what your son does in his free time. He takes his job as captain very seriously, do you doubt his abilities based on his personal relationships?” Sidon said flatly, as if this wasn’t the first time he’d heard the complaint from the elder. Link stared at the Zora incredulously.
“Bazz and Rivan? Together?”
“Everyone knows.” Sidon commented idly. Link’s jaw nearly dropped in awe at the notion, glancing around at the nonchalant expressions of the room’s inhabitants.
“It has been going on for quite some time now.” Seggin huffed.
“No, that’s not true, I would definitely know! You’re just as skeptical as ever, Seggin.” Link laughed nervously. “I believe that your issue has been heard and we will work on that, okay? You’re free to go.”
Dorephan nodded, throwing a curious glance to his son and the Champion. Link shifted.
“Court is dismissed for now.” The King allowed with a wave of his hand. Link nodded, and looked up to find Sidon still staring at his extensively and uncomfortably. The rest of the day would be much the same, undoubtedly.
~*~*~
It was the early hours of the night, blue light reflecting from the luminous stone set into the walls. Link held the embroidery floss tightly in his hand. There was something strange going on with Sidon, even he could recognize that. Zelda was being overly supportive now, which was something he didn’t dare question, but Sidon was just… odd. Unlike how the Prince would normally act.
A quiet knock sounded at the door, and he looked up in surprise. It was late. He didn’t know if it was Zelda who knocked to keep appearance, or Sidon who knocked because it was polite. Even so, he couldn’t risk it. He shoved the floss and project away in the bedside table, resting his palms in his lap in attempts to seem natural.
“Come in!” He called out, quietly. The door opened, and Sidon slipped into the room with a sheepish smile and a light click of the door as it shut.
“I am sorry to disturb you so late, but Muzu sent me to ask something of you.” He whispered. Link hummed, and motioned for the Prince to sit beside him.
“Why didn’t he come himself?” He asked.
“I am under the assumption that he had other matters to attend. The entire court is busy with a royal wedding underway.” The Prince smiled softly, settling himself onto the waterbed. “He was hoping to meet with you and Zelda tomorrow, to go over the last of the preparations before the wedding.”
“Okay, I can do that. Thank you for letting me know.” Link nodded.
“Not long now.” Sidon looked away, seemingly to himself.
“What?” Link furrowed his brows.
“Until our wedding.” Sidon looked back at Link, a sort of determination or fire in his eye
“Time has passed so quickly…” Link fell backwards into the thick sheets with a sigh. Sidon did the same, falling next to his betrothed. The Champion was just glad that he was done with the strange staring.
“I agree. I must say, I’m excited to be married.” Sidon said quietly from beside him. Link nodded, and Sidon copied the action.
“Sidon?” Link asked, looking over.
“Yes?” The Prince looked over as well.
“Are you feeling well? You’ve been acting very strange recently. You’ve been overly touchy, which I don’t mind but it’s new. And you were staring at me in court the other day, more than usual. Even tonight, you seem to be copying my every move.” Link spoke, his tone worried. Sidon only frowned, looking away. His pale cheeks had colored deeply blue. “Sidon?” Link asked.
Shooting up with a nervous quickness, Sidon looked to the door, and back to Link. The Hylian stood as well with an outstretched hand, unsure. The Prince stepped back out of his reach.
“I apologize Link, I must be going. It is very late.” He said weakly, retreating from the Hylian’s room with a haphazard escape and slam of the door. Link stood numbly, his hand still out.
~*~*~
Planning the ceremony with Zelda and Muzu sounded more entertaining than it actually was. Link had other matters on his mind, regardless.
“You have friends across Hyrule you would like coming I’m sure. Have you sent the invitations yet?” Zelda asked, nudging his side. Muzu sat behind a desk, scrawling on various papers as the three of them spoke in his study.
“Was I supposed to?” Link asked sheepishly, dodging the glare the Princess threw at him. Muzu sighed loudly.
“I suppose it will be fine.” Muzu rubbed his temples. “As long as they are sent by tonight. You are lucky princess has been helping the Rito rebuild their mail services to how it was before the Calamity. Why, just a few weeks ago we would have had to send them on foot!”
Like gave a grateful smile, and looked down. Zelda glanced over curiously, but rolled her eyes and continued on with the meeting.
“Who will be officiating?” She asked.
“Kapson is returning for a short while to officiate the wedding. He seemed very pleased in his letters to be able to marry our prince and Link.” Muzu said without looking up from his papers, scrawling something down. Link looked longingly towards the door. They began late in the afternoon, and though much of the work had been done, it had taken a considerable amount of time. In the morning, Sidon hadn’t arrived for breakfast. When Link went searching for him, he was nowhere to be found. Link had asked Muzu if he’d seen the Prince, and no one had.
Link drummed his fingers on the table impatiently. Muzu was talking, but the Hylian paid him no attention. Zelda gave him a sharp look and a firm nudge. She huffed.
“Of course Muzu, I agree. Now, my deepest apologies however, I must cut this meeting short. I’m sure we can finalize everything tomorrow morning, but it is very late in the evening and I would never dare to keep Link from his meals.” Zelda gestures to Link with a helpless smile. Muzu nodded.
“Of course, Your Highness. I will have the cooks ready you both meals immediately. “ He said, looking up for a moment before turning his attention back to the neatly organized papers on his desk. Link jumped up.
“See you Muzu.” He said, leaving the room quickly with Zelda close behind. As soon as the door clicked shut, she moved past him to block his path further. She stood with her hands on her hips and a stern expression in place.
“I realize that you hate politics and ceremonies as much as I do, but I am sure that even you can sit still for a few hours to plan your own wedding! I swear to Hylia, if you do not have a valid reason for you actions you are going right back in there and spending the night with Muzu! Without dinner!” She seethed, leaning in closer with each sentence. Link grinned apologetically, shifting on his feet.
“It’s just… I haven’t seen Sidon at all today.” Link started lamely. Zelda quirked a brow.
“And? I’m sure that there are times when you don’t see him for many hours at a time. Goodness, Link. You may be in deeper than I thought you were. Listen, he is a prince, he has duties.” Zelda softened, and laid a hand on her knight’s shoulder. “Come, I am sure he’s waiting for us in the dining hall.”
Link nodded, his step a little faster and a little more hopeful.
When they arrived at the dining hall, the table was set for three. The Prince was nowhere in sight however, although he was always back from missions by such a late time. Zelda frowned.
“I am sure he will come.” She pulled out her own chair, and sat. “In the meantime, I do not think it would be rude to start without him.”
Time passed with hardly a word spoken spoken between the two. Link barely touched his plate, and even Zelda was beginning to wonder.
“There must have been something that worried you even before we met with Muzu. You have not been present all day.” She nodded to herself. Link pursed his lips, almost an affirmation to the Princess.
“He’s been acting so weird. You saw him at court the other day, staring. Last night he copied everything I did and I was beginning to worry. I confronted him about it, and he just had this look on his face—like he’d been caught. And he just left, and never came back. I’m worried about him.”
Zelda dropped her fork and she looked away, her complexion flushed. Link looked at her, curious.
“Zelda? Do you… know what’s going on?” He asked, setting his own silverware down.
“I was only trying to help!” She looked over at him, holding a palm to her cheek. Link furrowed his brows.
“What do you mean?”
“Sidon’s behavior, I was only trying to help!” The Princess couldn’t meet his eye, she looked everywhere else.
“Help with what?”
“We had a plan… and I offered to help.”
“But what?” Link pressed. The Princess cleared her throat.
"Oh, Hylia it is already embarrassing enough for me to admit!” She shifted in her seat uncomfortably. “We were trying to get you to fall in love with him. Or at least make you realize you were already there. I thought it would work, honestly. I did the research, I made the plans, the science was there! I don’t know what went wrong.”
Link hadn’t seen Zelda so flustered and upset in over one-hundred years, and it wasn’t something that happened often back then either.
“Make me fall in love with Sidon? We’re getting married, why would you need a secret plan?” He asked. Zelda finally looked at him and nearly rolled her eyes.
“Link, you are the densest person that I know. I’m afraid that I should not be the one to explain myself to you. You should talk to Prince Sidon himself.” She said. “Of course, it seems you cannot find him right now.”
Link breathed in, standing. There was a lot of questions he needed answers to, from the Princess, from Sidon, from himself even. Did he love Sidon?
“I’ll check his study first, you head to the inn. We’ll meet up afterwards.” Link nodded to himself in affirmation. He couldn’t think right now, only do.
~*~*~
After extensive searching around the Domain, they decided the Prince would be found when he wanted to be. Both Link and Zelda departed at her door, and the Princess gave an apologetic smile.
“He’s around, I’m sure.” She clicked her door shut, and Link nodded weakly to himself. He was so confused, and just so emotionally drained at that moment. He wanted sleep.
Checking the Prince’s room once more, he sighed. He hadn’t exactly expected him to be there, but hope had always been his driving force. Closing the door, he left to his own just beside it. Maybe he would finish the embroidery tonight.
His door however, was already opened just a crack. Link frowned, pushing it further with little force. He stood still, staring at the figure perched on the edge on his bed. With a quiet gasp, Link stumbled forward and nearly slammed the door shut. Sidon smiled, an expression that didn’t meet his eyes.
In his excitement to finally see the Prince, Link had nearly forgotten his anger. He collected himself and cleared his throat, folding his arms across his chest.
“Link! I am so glad you came. Not that I thought you would not, this is your room after all. Of course you would have to return at some point but it is very late and I was getting worried. Though, I suppose you could have spent the night at the inn… My apologies, this is not what I intended to say when you first arrived.” Sidon rambled on, fumbling over his words as he stood. Link tilted his head, gazing fondly, tiredly, at the Zora as he let his arms slip to his sides.
“I must have checked both of our rooms a dozen times, Sidon. Where were you? I’ve been worried sick, the least you could do was tell me you were leaving.” Link sighed, shifting his feet. Sidon frowned.
“I did not mean to make you worry, my treasure.” He stepped forward, and Link shook his head.
“I know you would never worry me intentionally, but you disappeared without a word.”
“I am sorry, truly. I will be honest, I was upset with myself. I swam down Rutala River to clear my head. I did not think about how that may affect you, and I am sorry for that.” He grasped Link’s hands in his own, looking down with an apologetic smile.
Link sighed, though the tension in his shoulders remained and he was still tired, he was happy to see his prince safe.
“Sidon… I’m sure that Zelda has ways to get around a marriage if you’re really having second thoughts. Other things can be arranged.” Link said pointedly, averting his gaze from the Zora Prince’s. Sidon gaped at him.
“Of course I am not, my dear friend! That has never been a problem, what would give you such a silly idea?” Sidon squeezed his hands, and the Hylian attempted a shrug.
“Zelda told me about your plans to make me fall in love with you. Is it because of your customs? Or because you couldn’t love me first?” He asked, uncertain. He wouldn’t force Sidon to marry him, as Sidon wouldn’t force him. The Prince gazed down, his eyes unsure and his pale cheeks coloring deeply blue.
“She told you?” His voice was unsteady. Link smiled weakly. The Prince hadn’t countered anything he said.
"She didn’t want to, but I was worried…” Link trailed off, and Sidon nodded.
“Yes.” He said quickly, his head drooping. “Yes, of course.”
“She wouldn’t tell me why though.” Link looked away, still hoping that perhaps it wasn’t the case that the Prince just couldn’t love him. Sidon’s head whipped up, and he locked eyes with Link, wide.
“She did not?” He asked, grasping for control over the situation once more. Hesitantly, Link nodded.
“I was told to hear it from you directly. So… why? Why would you need a secret plan for making me love you?”
Sidon hummed happily, and released Link’s hands. He turned away, and reached for a box from the bedside table hidden in the room’s shadows. Without a word, he handed it to Link.
With curious hands, Link opened the box to reveal his choker. Newly fixed. He’d seen it being fixed before, seen it for the very first time many weeks ago. Though now, he felt his heart swell with emotions as he stared down at the piece. He looked up at Sidon with furrowed brows.
“I don’t understand.” Link said carefully. Sidon’s cheeks heated, and he turned his gaze his gaze towards the choker. With light fingers he lifted it from the box and locked eyes with Link.
“May I?” He asked quietly. Link nodded weakly. Sidon brought the necklace to the Hylian’s neck, his fingers brushing against the milky skin of his collarbone. Link swallowed harshly. With deft hands, Sidon closed the clasp on the back of his neck. The familiar weight of it eased Link’s heart in a strange way, and he reached up to keep the Prince’s hands at his neck. That was familiar too, and he wanted to keep it.
“I hadn’t realized how much I missed it.” Link murmured. Sidon gave a warm smile, raising one hand to run his fingers along the Hylian’s jaw absently.
“I am glad to have fixed it so soon.” He said quietly. “The truth of the matter is Zelda thought you may return the feelings I have for you and wanted you to realize it for yourself first.”
“Sidon…?” Link’s heart stuttered, and he could only stare up at the Prince as he went on.
“Link, I know it was wrong to do this behind your back. It may have been easier to simply ask you if you truly did feel for me more than just a friend. Zelda was so confident, and I so hopeful…” Sidon sighed, drawing in one deep and steadying breath. “You were already my most cherished friend, and the changes in my heart towards you were so subtle.” He paused. “I had not realized until this very moment just how terribly I have fallen in love with you.”
Link’s eyes widened and a soft sound of surprise escaped his lips in a gasp. Sidon broke his gaze, unable to keep it, though Link could clearly see in the blue illumination how dark the Prince’s cheeks were.
The Hylian’s mind was in such disarray with the revelation and confession, and there were so many confusing feelings washing over him that he couldn’t bring himself to say the words that would chase away the sad expression forming on the Prince’s face.
“I apologize, I did not mean to make you uncomfortable with all of that. Excuse me.” Sidon said quickly, drawing his hands away and looking towards the door.
Link reached out and grabbed the Prince’s wrist.
“Wait.” He said, his voice betraying him with a tremble. Sidon stilled, his breath hitching. Loosening his grip, Link spoke.
“I wanted to wait until I’d finished it, but I’ll show it to you now if that’s alright.” Link turned to the drawer, and fished out an embroidery hoop. With a nervous smile, Link presented it to the Prince. The fabric was fleshed out and drafted to be the center of Zora’s Domain clearly, the first layers of blues and greens over the unfinished template.
“What is this?” Sidon asked, taking the hoop into his hands and studying the tiny figures and buildings. He brushed his fingers over the tiny detailed stitches, his eyes widening in surprise.
“My mother taught me embroidery when I was very young. I wanted to make you something as well, I wanted it to be something meaningful. The Domain has always been your home, and for a time it was mine, I grew up here when my father was stationed. I was thinking though, it will no longer be just mine or just yours. It will be our Domain.” Link said, a shy smile growing on his lips. He took the hoop back. “ I can’t give it to you just yet, so I hope you don’t mind waiting.”
Sidon stared at him with a certain awe to his gaze and shining eyes, as if all of the breath in his body had left him in that moment. His lips were parted, speechless, and he gazed at Link so fondly he may have regarded him as the most precious star in the sky, or his own little treasure.
“I would wait forever if that is what you wish, my dear.” The Prince knelt on one knee with his head tilted and a hand over his heart. Gently, Link set the piece onto the edge of the bed, and turned back to the Prince, whose eyes trailed his every move. Sidon watched him in quiet awe, still bent on one knee. With a tentative step forward, Link met Sidon’s intense gaze head on.
The Hylian reached up and rested one hand over the Prince’s burning cheek, rubbing his thumb in circles over his scales. His eyes lingered on the Zora’s lips, wondering what the texture was like. Would they be smooth one way and rough the other like the rest of him? He shifted his gaze, allowing himself to fully explore his fiancé’s form. His eyes moved lower, traveling down the thick bands of muscle that made up his chest and abdomen. He was fit, of course, as a prince he trained and fought with a spear nearly as often as Link had with his sword. He took another step closer, so that he could feel the heat emanating from Sidon’s body.
“Sidon.” Link started, his throat dry and unwilling to part with any words. Though he didn’t have to say much more than that, as the Prince leaned down and covered the Hylian’s lips with his own. Gentle, silky, yet rough lips glided over Link’s and he allowed his eyes to slip shut as he pressed forward and wrapped his other arm around Sidon’s waist. His heart pounded in his chest so loudly he was sure the Prince could hear it, though he didn't very much mind when Sidon’s hands made their way low on Link’s back and pulled him upwards. Link’s eyes shot open and he gasped as he felt his feet leave solid ground, and Sidon hummed happily, taking the chance to drag his tongue across the other’s lower lip.
Ever so gently, Sidon brought his teeth to Link’s lip and bit down lightly, playfully, teasing their full potential. Link gasped again as the Prince’s teeth pricked his mouth and Sidon ran his tongue over Link’s lip once more, licking at any trace of blood the may have welled from the bite. He trailed his lips over Link’s jaw, peppering kisses over every surface of skin and down to his neck, allowing the Hylian a chance to breathe.
He pulled away gently, slightly breathless while Link panted. Sidon leaned forward, pressing their foreheads together affectionately.
“And… There.” Zelda stepped back from Vah Rudania’s control panel, wiping her hands on the front of her blouse. “We simply need to record what switch does what, and then we can work on smoothing it’s movement.” She pulled a notepad out of her back pocket, jotting something down with a charcoal stub as she spoke.
“Thanks, Princess. It’s still a little embarrassing that I’m the last to figure out how to work this thing, but I really appreciate your help.” Daruk smiled, sheepish. He stood behind the Princess, peering over her shoulder and down at the blinking controls. She flipped the book shut and turned, tucking the materials safely away.
“Oh, it is no trouble at all. I rather enjoy being able to study the Divine Beasts closely and learning how to control them myself.” Zelda unhooked the Sheikah Slate from her hip, prodding at the terminal information screen.
“So Princess, how’s the little guy?” Daruk leaned back against the wall, and scratched at the white scruff of his beard. Zelda’s fingers paused.
“Finally away from me, for the moment.” She huffed, not looking up. She had sent her knight inside Rudania to fetch some trivial items that she had demanded. He would take his time in order to give her space, he was at least that considerate. “He is so infuriating, I swear.”
“Oh, well he’s not so bad if you got to know him.” The Goron Champion raised a brow curiously at the princess, watching her jab at the screen with too much force. She snapped up, brows furrowed and frowning.
“How can you stand him? He is just so… Ugh!”
“I was under the impression he was quite the charmer!” Daruk gave a sudden hearty laugh, pushing up from the wall and grinning.
“Oh yes, I am quite aware. All the maids in the castle can talk about is how ‘handsome’ and ‘brave’ he is. I for one, do not see it.” She glowered, rehooking the Sheikah Slate to her belt and folding her arms across her chest defiantly.
“You’ll see in time, Princess. Our Link is a real catch.” Daruk winked, wiggling his eyebrows. Zelda stared at him, unamusement etched on her features.
“And what is that supposed to mean? He rarely even speaks, there is nothing charming about that!” She snapped, fuming.
“It makes him seem mysterious, women like that kind of thing. You think you’d know that, Princess.” Daruk shrugged.
“Men are not my objective.” The Princess nearly spat in irritation.
“Anyways, he’s also just an all around nice guy. Everyone loves him, even our own Mipha! Too bad the poor kid is too dense to see it, she’s a real catch too.” The Goron laughed. “Get it? Catch?”
Zelda rolled her eyes, but smiled a bit at the comment still. “I will agree with you on one thing however, Hylia help him that boy is oblivious to everything. I would be surprised if he knew what even he was thinking or feeling half of the time.” She turned her attention back to Vah Rudania’s controls. “Lady Mipha must know him the best out of all of us. I wonder, I could ask her about him sometime…” The Princess trailed, pursing her lips. Daruk shook his head hopelessly, smiling to himself.
Zelda only bristled again when she heard Link climbing up and out of Rudania. She let out a long and irritated groan.
~*~*~
“Would someone mind explaining exactly what is going on?” Zelda’s hands were placed on her hips, and she tapped her foot impatiently. Link’s gaze was cast to the floor, his hands folded neatly in his lap despite the disarray of his mussed hair and hastily thrown on tunic. He sat unmoving and unspeaking on the bed of his given room, the Princess having been brought to the quarters by her immediate demand after greeting the King. Sidon stood aside, close to Link yet with a posture of marble with the presence of the Hylian Princess. Sidon gazed upon the room warily, the tension the Princess caused nearly suffocating. He cleared his throat, and Zelda snapped her attention the Prince.
“Princess Zelda, if you would-” Sidon began, and trailed weakly as Link shook his head, holding a hand up and signalling him to stop. The Princess’ frown deepened, and she turned back towards Link.
“I asked you to do something very simple, Link. You were instructed to deliver a letter, something that should have taken a week at most. I had been so worried that something terrible had happened! You could have been hurt or lost! I did not know what to think when the Zora guardsmen came instead of you, but I feared the worst!” Zelda jabbed out an accusing finger, and began to pace as she spoke. Link pursed his lips, desperately ignoring the guilt that pooled in the pit of his stomach at the Princess’ rant.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t think of it that way.” He looked up at her, begging. Zelda shot him a fiery look.
“You did not think at all, and that is what got us into this mess in the first place! I do not want your apologies, I want to know why you had not just waited for me to find the proper documentation as we had planned!” She fumed, seemingly talking to herself as she paced back and forth in the enclosed space. Sidon from aside looked between the pair helplessly. Link’s expression was distraught and pleading, and Zelda’s was drawn crossly. He bit his lower lip, and shuffled a bit looking down. He felt awful, truly, but he knew it wasn't his place to interject further. The Zora prince hadn't expected the Princess to lash out as such, perhaps he had hoped that she would simply be happy for the arrangement. Perhaps he’d been too caught up in the engagement to realize that maybe she would find the necessary documents and they wouldn’t even need an arranged marriage. And perhaps he was reluctant to call off the marriage, as a quiet defensiveness blossomed in his chest at the Princess’ rampant speech.
Zelda paused in her pacing, and deflated. “I apologize, your Highness, I had not wished for you to see me like this. May I have a moment alone with Link? I would like to speak with him privately.” She bowed her head, hands folded across her skirt. She seemed almost embarrassed with her own lashing, unfit for royalty. Sidon blinked at the sudden change in demeanor, having missed the tail end of her ramblings in his own musing. Which may have been for the better, as Link seemed more crestfallen than ever. The Prince breathed sharply at the sight, Link of all people like a dog with his tail between his legs. He swallowed thickly.
“Of course, Princess Zelda. I will have breakfast arranged post-haste, then.” He said with a curt nod. Folding his hands behind his back he threw a final mournful glance to link, who gave a tiny hopeful smile. Sidon turned to the door, frowning. What did that mean? He shook his head and left, the tension following him as he went.
From inside, Zelda watched the ornate door click shut. She turned back to Link, a hand resting on the embroidered skirt of her hip.
“Link, look at me.” She spoke softly, her posture more relaxed. The Hylian Champion looked up warily, a nervous smile on his lips. He remained silent, and blinked up at the Princess.
“What is this, truly? You have already defeated Calamity Ganon, you do not need to be the hero again. Impa and I discovered the relations paperwork that had been stored deep within the castle. It is not in ideal conditions after the shelves were buried in soot for one hundred years, but the signatures are legible. Once I present it to the council this marriage of convenience will not be necessary and you can return to Kakariko with me and begin rebuilding Castle Town to a habitable state. You are not required to save the kingdom this time, Link. Wouldn't it be nice to just settle down and stop being the hero for once? I do not even expect you to wield another sword as long as you live if that is how you wish it.” Zelda spoke, resting a gentle hand over Link’s shoulder. He bit his lower lip and looked away. It should have been the solution he wanted, he should want to allow Prince Sidon to marry for love, to gift the elegant choker to a more worthy suitor. He didn't, though. The mere thought of someone else wearing the sapphire made his fingers itch to fasten the silver piece around his neck and a defensive fire to rise in his belly.
“Are you sure?” Link asked quickly, in a quiet voice. Zelda quirked her brow.
“Am I sure of what?” She drew her hand away, eying the Hero suspiciously. Link pressed his lips together firmly, frowning under the scrutinization.
“The documents, are you sure they're all properly dated and… signed?” He gave weakly with a shrug, his eyes downcast.
“What? Did you not listen to a word I said? Of course I made sure the papers were applicable and credible. I double checked, triple checked even.” Zelda furrowed her brows, overlooking the embarrassed red tinge to the tips of the Hylian Champion’s ears. He scratched the back of his head, nervousness and desperation creeping up.
“I don’t doubt that, but this is all really sudden…” He trailed. Zelda’s eyes widened with apall, and she snapped her mouth shut. Link tried to sink further into the bed to save himself from the Princess’ wrath he had incurred. He wished that he had prepared more for her arrival. Although he shouldn't have anticipated a different reaction, he hadn’t expected her to actually find the solution she needed to desist the need for marriage, by sheer willpower too no doubt. He fidgeted under her steadfast gaze, and found himself longing for the comforting presence of the Zora prince. He noticed himself quickly becoming dependant on the Prince’s security, at his side nearly constant for weeks. The Princess sucked in an intake of breath sharply between her teeth, and Link braced himself.
“Sudden? You wish to speak of sudden? I am not sure if you recall, but I did mention the guards on my doorstep with no warning did I not? I was terrified for you! Do not speak to me of sudden!” She glared fiercely.
“I said I was sorry, he didn’t want me to leave to escort you myself. Not with the marriage and courting.” Link held his palms out in weak defense. He truly did feel bad for scaring the Princess, still.
“Oh, of course he did. And for a marriage that is entirely unnecessary and could have been prevented if you had waited rather than insisting on jumping into things without thinking. A marriage that can and will still be prevented if I have anything to say about it.” She nearly growled. “It will be okay, I will fix this.”
“Isn’t it a little too early for politics?” Link asked, and flicked his gaze to the side away for a moment when the Princess shot him a look. “I mean, I just woke up and I’m sure you’re tired from your journey as well. Why don’t we talk about this later? I’m absolutely starving.” He added quickly with a short and nervous laugh. Zelda frowned for a moment and sighed.
“Do not think I am done with this conversation, Link.” She jabbed her finger in his direction. He shrugged, and the Princess rolled her eyes. “I will meet you down there once you are dressed, just please do not take too long.” She shook her head, not waiting for an answer before slipping out of the room with a soft click of the door.
Link sat still for a moment, and released a shuddering sigh. He would need to find a way to keep Zelda from calling off the wedding, and find out why he wanted it still in the first place.
He grabbed immediately for the Silverscale necklace from the bedside table as he stood, running his fingers over the smooth and intricate details before clasping it around his neck with clumsy fingers, much too accustomed to Sidon’s assistance.
~*~*~
The Princess looked down at her meal with distaste, wrinkling her nose a bit at the foul smelling mixture of ocean water and reek that could only describe seafood. It was a simple and light breakfast as the Zoras were accustomed to, of sticky rice balls wrapped in nori and covered in thin slices of raw voltfin. She held her breath. With a slight cough sounding from the opposite end of the table to attain her attention, she redirected her bitterness towards the fish to the pair across from her.
The three of them sat silently in the dining hall, looking between each other as if debating who would speak first. Sidon folded his hands together
“I must apologize, Princess Zelda. I was unsure of when to expect your arrival, and as such there was very little time to prepare a proper meal. I do hope it is to your liking, however.” He spoke with an icy politeness, bowing forward slightly. Zelda looked at him, his back straight and his chin high in a seemingly vain manner, and back to her dish.
“It is fish. Again.” She said dully. Sidon blinked, curious. Link cleared his throat.
“I am sorry Princess Zelda. I was not under the impression that you did not like fish?” Sidon said, shooting a look towards Link who gave a small helpless smile. The Hylian Champion shrugged and began picking at his own rice and fish, avoiding involving himself with either of the royals at the table as to not choose sides.
“I am not looking forward to living solely off of seafood for however long I say.” Zelda pursed her lips, poking the meal with her fork. She took a small bite of the rice.
“And just how long are you planning to stay, your Highness?” Sidon asked carefully. Zelda’s fork paused in the center of the riceball, and she frowned.
“If things go as planned then only a few days.” She said. Link’s eyes were downcast as Sidon looked over at him quickly and with worry. The Hylian champion moved the rice and voltfin around his dish, not really eating it. Sidon pursed his lips, and turned his attention back to the Princess.
“Are you planning to leave before the wedding?” He asked with a nervous smile, his voice breaking from the formal tone and losing hold of his voice. Zelda scrunched her nose.
“If I have any say, this mess will be sorted as soon as possible and there will be no wedding to speak of.” She said matter-of-factly, crossing her arms over her chest. Sidon frowned, gazing back to Link who had buried himself in his meal. Sidon did the same, quietly.
The minutes in silence ticked on, a stifling stillness hanging heavily over the dining hall. As the quiet became unbearable, Sidon looked around the table Link had since given up on prodding at his meal, and Zelda barely touched hers in the first place. She sat still with her arms folded.
The Zora prince pushed away from the table, standing abruptly.
“Ah, well thank you both for joining me to breakfast, it has been an honor Princess Zelda.” He clasped his hands together, bowing. “But if you will excuse me, I have duties to attend to this morning.” He said quickly, attempting to remain formal as confusion of the whole ordeal swept through his mind. He looked back at Link briefly, whose eyes reflected his own worry. Briskly, he turned and left down out the stone doors and down the hallway before either of the Hylians could say a word.
Zelda rolled her eyes, sighing. She sat up straighter in her chair.
“Dear Hylia, he is so pompous.” She shook her head. Link furrowed his brows.
“You know, if you only got to...” He began, but trailed off as the Princess’ eyes widened, and she reached across the table to tug Link’s collar down roughly.
“What is that?” She demanded, her voice sharp. The Hylian Champion blinked in confusion, before reaching his hand up to touch what she was referring to. The Zora's Sapphire. He swallowed thickly, cheeks reddening.
“Well… uh. Sidon gave it to me as an engagement gift.” Link stumbled over his words, looking down nervously.
“Are you even aware of what exactly that sapphire represents!? I swear, if that Zora thinks he can just manipulate you like this… I promise you Link, I will fix this.” Zelda nodded to herself determinedly, before standing straight and pushing from her chair harshly.
Link sat in his place at the table still, confused.
“Manipulate me…?”
Zelda gave a brief smile before turning and disappearing in a flurry, slamming the door behind her.
She slipped through the blue-lit halls, furrowing her brows in frustration as she realized she didn’t know her way around the palace as well as she would have liked. With a huff, she turned, and caught sight of a green-skinned Zora guard standing post.
“Excuse me, do you happen to know where Prince Sidon has gone off to? I’m afraid there are matters I must discuss with him still.” She smiled politely, and the guard nodded wordlessly.
“Of course, your Highness. He came this way down that corridor.” The guardsmen paused. “He must have gone to his study. I’m sure you will find him though, he only just passed.”
“Thank you very much.” Zelda smiled and bowed slightly, straightening and following the hall to the Zora’s directions. After guiding herself along, she caught sight of the towering Prince, walking almost stiffly. Zelda wrinkled her nose. She stepped over lightly, and grabbed hold of his arm before he could go further.
The Prince paused and turned with a relaxed smile, expecting to see Link. He blinked, and the look vanished as he realized who was before him.
“A-ah, Princess Zelda. Was there something more you needed?” He asked carefully, retracting his arm from the Princess’ grip. She looked up, attempting an imposing look. She wore it well.
“I wish to informally notify you before I announce to the King and council of my disapproval of the marriage.” She started immediately. Sidon blinked at her suddenness, and nodded. “You must know, Link has a tendency to need to be heroic that distracts his rationality. Personally, I believe that he has done enough for Hyrule to last a lifetime, and this world as a whole as well. Do not condemn him to a life of servitude as your humble consort simply because he agreed to it. This is an unnecessary engagement, as I said before. I discovered legal documentation that outline indefinite ties of our kingdoms, and once I bring this to court, I will be returning to Kakariko with Link.”
Sidon watched the Princess as she spoke with a clenched jaw, his heart sinking as she went on. Did Link truly feel that the arrangement was merely of convenience still? That it was his duty to wed the Zora prince? Sidon frowned in thought, wondering if the Champion was unhappy with him. With a deep breath he recalled the Hylian’s almost bashful reactions. Were those misread? The Zora prince felt utterly foolish, having given the symbol of his kingdom, of marriage, of love to the Hylian Champion, with absolute faith that they would become close enough for the symbol to be true. Then, he recalled their times swimming, the picnic, the dinners they had alone in comfort in the past few weeks. The Princess’ words felt heavy on his heart. Link had become something he’d begun to look forward to, a smile when he thought of him, but there was always the lingering doubt that he would be able to make the Hero happy. He wondered if it truly would be for the best if the engagement were dissolved, for Link’s sake. He deserved the happiness that Sidon could not provide.
The Prince let out a long and shuddering sigh, careful as to not let his turmoil show. How his stomach was in knots. “I agree, your Highness. Link should not be forced to marry me if it is not necessary.”
“I am glad you see it as such. He is an important person to me, and I would rather him not continue to save me from my own duties.” Zelda said with a curt nod. “Now, if you will excuse me, I must prepare to present to the council. Thank you Prince Sidon, for your time.”
The Princess turned on her heel and strode back in the direction she came. Sidon watched after her as she left, the frown on his features deepening. He couldn’t bring himself to dispute her claim, he’d been so clouded in the idea of being engaged to his most trusted friend that he had not very much considered his own thoughts on the matter. The Princess had called Link important to her, and it was much the same for the Zora prince. He nodded in determination, steeling himself for the outcome of Zelda’s meeting with the council, ignoring the ache in his chest. Who was he to steal Link’s future from him?
~*~*~
Link walked beside Zelda in untested silence. He was still unsure as to what would upset her again, although he knew he had to say something before they found Muzu to request the council meeting so that Zelda could present to the court.
He threw a glance to the Princess, her features drawn in contentment. She was still angry with him and would change her demeanor quickly should he say the wrong words undoubtedly, though he could tell by her expression that she was confident in her ability to fix things. Link looked forward, pursing his lips. The problem was, the idea of ‘fixing’ the situation weighed down on him and he felt sick at the thought, though he himself was unsure as to why.
“Can’t we hold off the council meeting?” He blurted in panic, unsure. Zelda shot him a sharp look.
“And why would we do that? The sooner we speak to the council, the sooner we can go back to Kakariko.” She huffed, directing her attention forward once more.
“We could go on a walk.” Link pressed, wringing his hands.
“We can take a walk in Kakariko.”
“But Kakariko is nothing like Zora’s domain. You don’t come here very often and I might as well have grown up here. We should take the trail to Ralis Pond, the Hinox is gone. The view from there is breathtaking, you can see just about everything. Besides, it’s a beautiful day.” The Champion continued, plastering on a wide smile as he walked.
“Link, it’s raining.” Zelda deadpanned, then snorted.
“It’s only a sprinkle.” Link waved his hand for effect. The Princess paused and turned, facing Link. Her eyes softened as she was met with his pleading expression.
“Okay. We’ll go on a walk.” She shook her head. The Hylian Champion lit up, a genuine smile stretching across his features, almost giddy.
“Great! I’ll go get Sidon!”
“I did not agree to-! Oh, just hurry back.” Zelda called after him as he skipped away and sped down the hall to the door he knew to be the Zora prince’s study. With a strong hope that the Prince would be there, Link shoved the door open in excitement, forgetting to knock as he on most occasions did.
Prince Sidon looked up from his desk, startled at the sudden noise of the door, coral tip pen clutched tightly with widened eyes. As he saw the Champion, his look did not stray from that of shock.
“Sidon?” Link shuffled his feet, estranged with the change in demeanor of the Prince. The Zora only tensed further, his features reverting to that of stoic and princely.
“Link? What is it? I expected you to be with Princess Zelda readying for the council meeting.” He mused, seeming almost offended with the Hylian’s presence. He turned his attention back to his papers, finishing the wax seal of a scroll with a press of the stamp. Link frowned, but continued.
“We’re going on a walk first.”
“And what is it you will be needing from me?” Sidon looked up at him, unable to stay his curiosity. Link swallowed, nervous now in the presence of the Prince.
“I want you to come with us.”
Sidon blinked once, and then looked away, clearing his throat. “As you can see, I have many important… duties to be done here. As Prince of Zora’s Domain, my obligations are first and foremost.” He regained his regal tone. Link stepped forward, peering over at the new set of documents laid out in front of the Zora. They were completely blank. Link furrowed his brows, giving the Zora prince an incredulous look. Sidon’s facade deflated, and he sighed.
“Alright. I shall accompany you and Princess Zelda then, if only as an escort.” He shook his head. Link smiled a bit, still baffled by his behavior.
The pair walked down through the halls in strained silence. Link kept his lips pressed firmly, trying to figure out best what was the matter with the Prince.
“Are you okay?” He tried, peering up at the towering figure.
“I am fine, thank you.” The Prince gave, simply. Link nodded, and looked ahead. He felt grateful once he caught sight of Zelda, relieved that she may make for some conversation, perhaps help figure out why Sidon was acting so strange. Zelda huffed and crossed her arms, motioning for Link to lead the way.
They started on the trail to Ralis pond, the two royals trailing behind Link. They remained quiet, as the Champion wracked his brain for a solution to postpone the meeting further. The rain had picked up slightly, and he briefly wondered if he should worry about the sword on his back rusting.
The silence had prolonged, and Link frowned. “How was the trip?” He threw over his shoulder, asking Zelda. He felt nervous and unsure being the one trying to start a conversation.
“It was remarkably uneventful.” Zelda said simply from behind, her tone stiff from being stuck next to the Zora prince.
“Tottika and Dunma, how did they do?” Link asked, attempting to hook Sidon into the conversation with his own guardsmen.
“They were fine. As I said, there were no mishaps.” Zelda said bluntly, much more interested in the surroundings. Link hummed, looking back to Sidon who kept his gaze ahead. The Hylian Champion frowned. He was used to silence, he liked it even. Though he much preferred to be silent and let others do the talking as they were bound to, he liked to listen. Here, the silence was suffocating, or maybe that was the humidity of the rain. Regardless, his two dearest friends acting as such made Link worry.
“Do you think we could go swimming again soon, Sidon?” Link asked desperately, craning his neck to look up at the Zora prince. Zelda huffed, mumbling under her breath. Sidon didn’t meet the Hylian’s gaze.
“You will be departing as soon as possible.” The Prince gave, a cold and vague answer. Link frowned, his chest tightening.
“Maybe we could go swimming before?” He tried, still dreading the idea of leaving the Domain.
“I do not think so. I will be much too busy.” Sidon shook his head. Link pursed his lips, recalling the blank papers on the Zora prince’s desk. He remained silent as they walked on.
The rain was sudden, as was the darkened sky. It began as soft, barely noticeable kisses on their skin to bullets in mere minutes. Cold winds rolled over the surrounding hills, whipping the trees in all directions as a storm came in. Link looked to the inky sky, the telltale sounds of thunder in the distance. Zelda shivered, hugging herself tightly, her brows drawn as she pulled at the material of her blouse clinging to her form. Sidon stood alert, looking around with widened frantic eyes at the sound of thunder.
“We need to get back to the Domain, now!” He shouted over the rain, scanning the hills and mountains for that first strike. Link shook his head, his hair sopping wet.
“Not enough time, we need shelter. The Domain is too far!” He scanned the immediate area for anywhere safe from the storm quickly.
“Are there caves nearby? Rock formations?” Zelda huddled closer to be heard, trying to wring out the sleeves of her blouse.
“There are a few shelves of rock on the cliff by the pond. We’re a few minutes away, if we run and crouch beneath them we should be safe.” Link nodded to himself, trying to keep a level head as his instincts from long days of adventuring kicked in. He pulled Sidon and Zelda both along, beginning to sprint over the slick grass.
The storm picked up, and lightning struck in the surrounding area, hitting a tree close by. The Champion’s heart sped up as he felt the electricity in the air, his hairs standing on end. Sidon shouted incoherently through the beating of the rain as Link shoved him and the Princess a distance away. The sword, his sword was sparking. He grabbed at the hilt of the blade frantically but to no avail. It was caught in the sheath. His eyes widened, and his shaking fingers slipped over to the buckle that kept the weapon secure. As the buzzing reached his ears, he panicked, the wet buckle slipping from his fingers at every grasp and making it impossible to pull free. From peripheral vision where he had pushed the other two, he saw Sidon picking the Princess up from where she had fallen in the mud and then both of them making their way toward him.
“Link!” Zelda yelled over the rain, her voice cracked and fearful. She threw out an arm to stop the Zora prince, her other hand occupied in gathering her skirt from the mud. “Prince Sidon, please stay back! As a Zora, even a spark could harm you immensely!”
Sidon charged forward past the Princess, barreling towards Link and grabbing his shoulders. Briefly, he flashed a reassuring smile, and ripped the weapon free. Tossing the blade to the side, he tugged Link close and wrapped his arms around the Hylian tightly, shielding. Link yelped in surprise, though the Prince didn’t budge. Not a moment later, the lightning struck the sword, and Sidon dove for the ground to keep Link safe from the residual sparks.
Pulling away, Link got to his feet, still frantic. Sidon blinked up at him, a bit dazed.
“Link! Prince Sidon!” Zelda yelled over the rain as she approached quickly, keeping her pace to avoid slipping but staring wide-eyed at the Prince’s form still on the ground. She huddled close to Link.
“Sidon, are you alright?” Link asked, touching the Prince’s forearm lightly. The Zora shook away the daze and nodded, standing.
“I am fine, but the danger has not passed. Run, quickly now to the cliff shelving!” He pushed the two two, urging them forward. The Zora kept pace with the Hylians, watching their backs closely as they made their way to the cliff side. There was a slight buzzing in the air again, and Zelda’s eyes widened.
“Link, the necklace!” Zelda shouted, stepping back.
“But-” Link touched the metal in a protective manner, his shoulders drooping. From behind, Sidon reached down and broke the clasp at the back without a second thought, tossing that as well. Quickly, he pushed Link under the shelf of the rock, and Zelda crouched low as well. Link looked up at Sidon with wide eyes.
“But that-”
“Is far less important than your life.” The Prince said softly, helping the Hylian to the ground with a gentle hand. Zelda gazed up at him curiously.
“You could have died!” Link said, sitting still. His voice was full of worry, and his brows were drawn. Sidon smiled.
“I have faced worse beasts than a storm, and so have you. I am fine, I am only glad for your safety. I will ensure that you get a fire once we return to the Domain, I apologize for any discomfort.” He settled next to the Hylian. Link huffed.
“What about you, anyways. How come your jewlery didn’t spark?” Link prodded at his arm playfully, smiling.
“Oh, it is a different metal than the Silverscale. Although a bit weaker, it is not conductive so that we Zora may be protected without fear of electricity. I simply crafted yours from Silverscale because well, I fear I may have gotten caught up with the look rather than the practicality of it.” Sidon looked away, embarrassed. Link hummed, and settled into his side.
The three of them sat close to the ground to protect further from the storm. The Hylians’ clothes were soaked through, their boots sopping wet, and their plastered hair a matted mess. Link was content though, with the two people he cared for the most. Zelda simply stared at the pair wide-eyed, watching their interaction. As if she had come to some sort of realization, she chuckled, which soon rose into long and drawn laughter. Link looked at her, confused, before laughing along with her at the situation. The Prince glanced over at the pair and cocked his head. He smiled solemnly. As much as he wanted to laugh too, to pretend it was all a joke, he couldn’t help but feel like this was just another reason Link would be happier elsewhere.
~*~*~
The rain had lessened and the Hylians and Zora prince returned to the Domain quickly, before it picked up again. The storms were projected to last through the night. The guards ushered the Prince and guests inside the palace, apologizing profusely to the Hylians who were not built for prolonged heavy rain and storm. Once they arrived, a guard led Zelda to her room with a clean dress and bath, and Sidon offered walk with Link to his, still worried from the events of the afternoon.
They paused before the door, an uncertainty weighing in the air.
“Are you alright, Link?” Sidon asked softly. Link nodded, and gave a reassuring smile.
“I’m fine, thank to you.” He shuffled on his feet, unsure of the Prince’s shifting demeanor. He was glad for that familiarity, though.
“I am glad.” Sidon sighed, relieved, and placed a hand on the Hylian’s shoulder, only to jerk it away with a hiss in pain from a sharp burning that shot from his fingertips all the way up his arm.
“Sidon?” Link asked, grabbing at the Zora’s hand gently, turning the larger palm over in his hand. The white scales were off in color, opaque, and peeled away to reveal the painfully scarred and inflamed flesh beneath. Link gasped sharply, frowning.
“This is my fault. I can fix this.” He resolved. “I know a recipe-”
“Your elixirs do not work on Zora, remember? I will just have to get it bandaged in the infirmary.” Sidon mused. Link shook his head, features drawn into a frown.
“No, no, I can fix this. I have an idea, just wait in my room and I’ll be back in a moment.” The Hylian determined, vanishing down the hall from where they came, unchanged from his dripping clothes still.
“Ah-” Sidon began, but Link was already gone. The Zora sighed, shaking his head with a light smile. He was ever the hero, even after being alienated for most of the day he still cared for the Prince. Sidon’s heart fluttered at the notion, but he frowned. Their engagement would be dissolved soon and he was to ensure Link had the happiest future of free choice, but it didn’t stop the Prince from feeling selfish for wanting to keep him.
Sidon stepped into Link’s room, smiling at the little decorations and telltale signs of the Hero’s presence. The dried flower crown, a satchel of apples on the table for Ayla, little ingredients for elixirs he’d picked up as a curious habit, dirtied clothes strewn about the floor. The room even smelled of Link, although he’d spent the good part of a month in Zora’s Domain, he still smelled of pine and smoke.
The Prince sat on the edge of the waterbed, curious as to what Link was doing exactly. His palm brushed against the covers, and he jerked back, wincing in pain. Sidon hadn’t thought of the possible repercussions of saving Link at that moment, in fact he hadn’t even realized he was burned until just now. He may be the crown prince of his people, but if Link were in trouble he would do it all again in a heartbeat.
The door clicked, and Sidon looked up. Link’s arms were full, and so he shut the door with his foot as he carried the ingredients over to his table and dumped them all in a heap. With it came a thick book, which the Hylian thumbed open, scanning the pages and nodding. Sidon stared, at a loss.
“May I ask what all of that is for?” He asked, attempting to regain his regal tone. Link frowned.
“The library had this book that I saw the other day, and I found this recipe for a healing salve that works on Zoras.” He kept his eyes on the book, nodding once more. He straightened, and began picking some ingredients he had stashed around the room along with what he’d brought. “Just this… and this, two of these…”
“Really, Link, this will not be necessary, I-”
“No, I’ve got this. You just need a hearty elixir with an extra thing or two.” Link cut the Prince off, explaining the salve vaguely. From his pack he fished a small pot out and tossed various incredulous ingredients in from the collection on the table, glancing over at the book occasionally as he stirred and ground ingredients with the mortar and pestle he’d brought along. Sidon watched the Hylian work in silence, admiring his dedication, his cheeks warming a bit at the thought that the effort was all for him. Link looked over his shoulder at the Prince.
“I hope it doesn't hurt too bad.” He said quietly.
“It is fine.” Sidon looked down at his palm. It was a dull throbbing pain, though when he touched it, it sent a sharp and jolting stab of pain through his arm. Link shook his head, frowning at the answer.
“It’s my fault that you got hurt in the first place, so it’s only right that I would be the one to fix it.” Link looked forward again, stirring the pot, slower.
“You cannot control the weather.” Sidon said with a softened voice. Link shrugged, and lifted the pot up in his arms. He set it on the floor in front of the Prince, and dug around the bedside drawers for gauze and bandages.
“I knew that the weather wasn’t very good, and I still convinced Zelda to come on a walk because I’m being selfish.” Link said absently, sitting close to Sidon.
“Selfish?” The Prince asked, looking at the Hylian curiously. Link ignored him.
“This might hurt.” He grabbed at Sidon’s arm gently, and scooped out a jelly-like substance that was pinkish in color, with various chunks of poorly ground ingredients showing through. The Prince was dubious of the strange ointment actually being effective, but he would never disallow Link from trying. The Hylian smoothed a thick layer of the salve directly onto Sidon’s burned scales. The Zora inhaled a sharp hissing breath, his arm tensing at the white-hot agonizing sensation. It was fleeting, however, and the burning felt cooler and soothed after the initial pain.
“How does it feel?” Link asked, peering up at the Prince hopefully. Sidon looked down, astonished.
“Much better, truly. How did you do that? Thank you Link!” He waved his hand around, staring at it in amazement. Link sighed in relief, laughing a little at the Prince.
“Alright, alright, let me finish.” He caught Sidon’s wrist, smearing the salve a bit. He wrapped the bandage loosely around the wound as to keep the pressure minimal, and clipped it in place gently. He kept hold of Sidon’s hand in his own. The Prince looked down at Link thoughtfully, almost dazed, and spoke suddenly.
“Why was it so imperative for us to take a walk today? And why did you say you were selfish?”
The Hylian blinked and looked away, blushing. “I still haven’t gotten out of my wet clothes, and I’d rather not catch a cold. I’m actually rather tired after today if you wouldn’t mind.” Link feigned a yawn, and motioned to the door with a nod of his head. He’d much rather spend more time with Sidon, but he truly was exhausted, even if he was only avoiding the question. Sidon blinked in surprise at the response.
“If you wish, then. Thank you, again.” He nodded, standing. He walked to the door.
“Sidon.” Link called softly, catching the Prince’s attention. His hand stilled at the doorknob, and he looked back.
“Yes?”
“I’m glad you’re okay.”
~*~*~
Night had fallen and the storm picked back up, the rain beating steadily on the palace walls. After the long day, Prince Sidon retired to his room, his eyes exhausted although his mind was not quite ready to sleep. He floated lazily in the pool that was centered in his chambers, serving as his bed. The water was soothing and comfortable, especially after such a long day, though it didn’t help him sleep any. Most nights recently, he’d found himself wandering into Link’s room when he couldn’t sleep, curling up to the little Hylian’s side after after hearing a story of his sister, or just talking. Although Link was quiet, Sidon loved to just hear him speak, and he did more so when it was just the two of them together. Even though the waterbed was uncomfortable for the Zora, as he’d much rather be in the water, he found that being in Link’s presence more than made up for it.
Tonight though, he couldn’t find comfort in Link’s room. There was no need for it, the marriage was to be called off by the next morning, surely, as the meeting as delayed due to the night’s storm. The Prince sighed, wondering if Link was also having trouble sleeping, but waved the thought off. That Hylian could sleep for eternity.
The minutes stretched on, and all the Prince could dwell on was the events of the day and the weeks past. He was unable to keep his mind at peace to enjoy some well needed rest. The Prince sighed.
Suddenly and quietly, there was a light click as his door opened, and the shadow of a small form darted in through the dim bluish lighting. Sidon’s eyes widened, and he stood quickly, the water splashing and pooled around his waist. He squinted in the darkness, his heart skipping at the thought of Link.
The bright glow of a luminous stone lamp was switched, and Princess Zelda shifted almost nervously, her hands on her hips for appearance.
“Princess!?” He whispered in shock, giving her a baffled look. Zelda coughed.
“I apologize, this is very unbecoming of me, but I feared I would never sleep unless I knew why you would risk your life like you did for Link.” She said, her voice low. Sidon blinked, as if the answer was obvious.
“He is the most important person to me.” He said simply. Zelda cocked her head to the side, giving him a curious look.
“Yet you are the sole heir to the Zora throne, you have an entire people to rule. It was no time to be a hero.” She told him, her voice soft. She lowered her hands from her hips, and placed them gently folded at her front.
“In that moment I was neither prince nor hero. I simply wanted him to be safe.” Sidon nodded, determined. Zelda smiled.
“I thought as much. Thank you, then. For saving him.” She gave quietly. “He tends to be airheaded and clumsy sometimes, but he has a good heart.”
Sidon nodded, exhaling a sigh. “He is also an astounding glutton.”
Zelda chuckled, and paused with a light sigh. She looked to Sidon, who was leaning on the edge on the pool with a soft and almost dreamy smile.
“Prince Sidon,” Zelda started. “I feel as if we’ve gotten off on the wrong foot, and I am to blame for this. I pictured you as a pompous and stuck up prince, but I see now that you truly care for him.”
“Perhaps we could start over. I would much rather be friends if that is alright with you.” Sidon smiled. Zelda nodded.
“So this marriage… You truly have feelings for him, don’t you?” She asked quietly, stepping a little closer. Sidon blinked, opening his mouth to answer, but snapped it shut quickly. He thought back to the past few weeks and how he’d felt around the Hylian. How even then, he could feel the warmth blooming in his chest as the thought of him, and his cheeks tinging an embarrassing shade of blue. His eyes widened as it dawned on him.
“Yes. I do.” He said thickly, almost giddy with the knowledge. Zelda smiled, and nodded.
“I do not believe that I am mistaken, but I truly think that Link may feel similarly.” She nodded, tapping her chin. Sidon looked at her, surprised. “Though he can be quite oblivious, so he likely doesn’t even know it himself.”
“You really think he has feelings for me?” Sidon said, hopeful. The excitement was evident in his voice, and Zelda grinned.
“I am almost positive. In fact, I will help you get him to admit it. I will agree to ratify this wedding for his sake, he’s much happier here anyways. Just take good care of him.” She crossed her arms.
“Really? It is a deal, Princess.” The Prince held out his unbandaged hand, and Zelda clasped it in her own. She smiled, now glad that she knew what was happening between her knight and the Zora prince. She wanted Link to be happy, and she’d make sure of it that he was.
Every time I see the scene where Sidon is on one knee, I’m always like “how the FUCK IS HE STILL TALLER” and then I remember that Sidon has the longest torso in existence with these tiny baby legs and I think that’s amazing
Drawlloween - Day 1: Ghost!
So like a madman, I also decided to take on Drawlloween (combined with Inktober), but with a Zelda theme. I’ll definitely be shoehorning some of these characters to fit the topic…
Here’s a big “ghost”, Jalhalla!
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