Fall of a Dynasty: Ch 7. First Steps to Forgiveness
At Hyrule Castle, Athena was distracted by the architecture of the palace. It was so different than her homeland. “Manaco. Is King Covarog as beastly as people say he is?”
"That really depends on if my aunt is in the room." Manaco could not help but grin. "He can't keep his hands off of her for long, so say the servants. But if you're referring to his temper?" He grimaced a little. "Uncle Covarog can be... scary. For sure. Though he's not the one that can cut you down with a single look. That's my Aunt Zarazu. Aunt Zolori, on the other hand, knows how to insult someone in three different languages."
“Can he transform into a frightening beast like his father?” Griffith asked. “We have stories passed down from our mother that if we didn’t behave as children, the great and terrible Ganon would come in the night to rip and tear us apart.”
"I've never seen him turn into a beast like his father." Manaco admitted, "But then again, I've never seen him when he's lost control either. I'm not entirely sure. Perhaps he can, perhaps he cannot."
“Well, I’m sure he’ll be hospital towards us.”
"I'm fairly sure he's going to be surprised..." Manaco took a deep breath as the three of them approached the throne room doors. This was either going to be really good or really bad. He prayed that it would go smoothly, for the sake of Athena's homeland. Then, he opened the doors.
Athena and Griffith held their heads high, carefully walking in. Inside was a young red head girl, most likely twenty or so, talking with the Queen and King. She looked a tad wild, but still held a royal air.
"Luimaya, I have told you again and again, I don't want you doing such dangerous tricks on Carsa'sec, you could fall off." Covarog was not scolding his daughter, just expressing his concern. "He's not the most careful flier either."
"Daaad, Mom did those tricks when she was my age, why can't I?" Luimaya was getting rather tired of her father being so overprotective. "Carsa'sec has never dropped me! I've never fallen off!"
"She has a point, my love." Zarazu was trying to find middle ground. "If you feel so uneasy, we can always modify her saddle."
"...? Manaco?" Luimaya glanced at her cousin and then at the two Hasai. Zannah's kids, what were they doing here?
"Ah yes, I heard you were here." Zarazu turned her attention to the twins. "I am very surprised about the proposal you submitted, Manaco. Though, I am delighted that Athena accepted." She knew not of Bonegrinder's dealing with this, thinking it was predominantly Ralnor. "We shall be sure to attend the wedding."
Covarog, however, still held no love for Zannah or anyone born of Zannah. The Hasai had left a bad taste in his mouth for ages. No matter how hard he tried to mask it, there was still that underlying scowl on his face.
"They didn't come here just to extend an invitation, they're here to ask for something." Covarog stated. "What do you want?"
Athena took a deep breath. Time to put all her learning to the test. With a smile, she gave a bow. “Greetings. I am Princess Athena. Soon to be granted the status of Empress Athena of the Empire State to Hyrule.”
Griffith did his very best to not wince at that distinction. They’d soon bow to Hyrule. “And I am Prince Griffith. We’ve met Queen Zarazu plenty of times, but never King Covarog.” It didn’t take the man any time at all to turn on the charm. “And you must be Princess Luimaya. Queen Zarazu has mentioned your near legendary skill at riding dragons at such a young age.”
"Enough of the pleasantries. You two either wish to ask a favor or your mother sent you here in her stead to do her bidding. Probably the latter." Covarog scoffed. "This is about the civil war back in the empire, isn't it?"
"My king..." Zarazu's voice held a tone, asking him to be nice. "Please."
"... I already told your mother, we will not concern ourselves with a civil war that should be handled by the kingdom itself."
“Well, seeing that we are to become part of your kingdom, I suppose it’ll be your problem too.”
“What my Brother means to say, is that our mother wishes to have a strike force help her deal with the radical anarchists. She believes that our late Uncle Nihilus has returned from the dead. Is it not true that your father had to take the full strength of your Triforce to defeat him because he faced him alone? She wants a team to deal with him quickly before he can grow stronger.”
"I figured one day that her own people would turn against such a tyrant." Covarog did not like the idea of another fight. More lives could be in danger. Yet, if the prince was telling the truth, and Nihilus was back, then this would be a problem. He would have that bastard nowhere near his wife and children. "And my father crushed Nihilus like an ant."
"Perhaps I could handle this situation, my king?" Zarazu gently placed her hand on top of Covarog's. "You could take Luimaya to modify her saddle."
"... very well." Covarog stood from his throne and held his wife's hand, easing her up as well. "Put an end to this nonsense, my queen."
"As you say."
“Did you just call my mother a tyrant? Or my uncle?” Athena rose a hand to the King.
"They're both tyrants, princess. I hope you seek not to follow their paths in the future." Covarog glared at Athena, almost resembling his terrifying father in that moment. "My queen will deal with your situation, Manaco."
Exiting the throne room with his daughter, Covarog knew he would lose his temper and was grateful his wife could handle this stupidity.
"... Manaco, may I speak frankly?"
"Yes, Aunt Zar---I mean, my queen." Manaco had to keep up appearances in the presence of other royals.
"This situation is quite... unique." Zarazu descended the steps to the twins and her nephew. "I am a touch concerned about the return of this brother of Zannah's."
Athena and Griffith both swore at Covarog behind his back, with the former muttering under her breath. “Hope you get a heart attack.”
There attention turned to Zarazu, they both calmed their emotions. “Queen Zarazu. I know my mother has hurt both you and Covarog, but that doesn’t make her a tyrant. She wants to help our people. I want to help my people. She said that Rinku was a capable warrior who could help.”
"Rinku is older than myself and my king, princess. Even if you were to ask her, I'm sure she could not handle your uncle alone." Zarazu sighed, trying to find a way to say what was needed without further upsetting the twins. "I understand that there is history between your mother and my king. Yet, there is also how she hurt my sister and betrayed her trust. While I know you two are not your mother, I cannot held but have caution meddling in these affairs. Do you understand? I am trying not to be biased."
“We know. Will you help our people and the sanctity of a partnership our kingdoms hold, if not our mother?”
"... I want to help you and your people, not only because of this partnership, but also because they are not at fault for the actions of your mother."
Suddenly, Zarazu felt a large part pat on the back lerch her forward, despite the small weight Rinku held. “Who you calling old Queenie?”
Both the adopted elder princesses came by out of concern when they heard new Hasai were in the castle.
The queen jolted slightly when the hero suddenly appeared behind her. "You are old, Rinku." Zarazu responded dryly in good humor. "I'm old, your siblings are old. Ralnor is super old cause he's a grandfather now."
“What? Me?” Rinku fake frowned, her wrinkles pulling at her face. “Late Fifties and early sixties ain’t old. Just look at Leere.”
“Sis. You know I’m a special case right?”
“Anyways, who’s the asshat that needs taking down?”
"... Zannah's brother... Nihilus is somehow returned." Zarazu informed Leere and Rinku. "I don't suppose the snake will accompany you on this one?"
Both the elder princess’ grew stone cold faces, old memories opening up. “Ah... well, I suppose I better get the blade.”
As Rinku ran off, Leere examined both the Hasai, pressing them for answers. “Do you know if Nihilus was brought back by necromancy? How powerful is the body?”
Griffith shook his head. “Our Patreon god resurrected him.”
Athena murmured, angry at all the trouble this brought. “Maybe we should worship Vatra instead.”
"Exodrum is the cause..." Zarazu sighed, now feeling worried. "A deity involved in this doesn't give me the best outlook on this situation. Only another deity can take down another deity unless you have a way to trap this one."
Manaco then glanced at Athena when she mentioned Vatra. "... if you wish to speak to Vatra, I could take you to her temple."
Leere turned to Zarazu. “Well, you’re a Demi-god, right? All the spirits combined into one vessel.” The Princess patted Zarazu’s bicep to brighten her up. “I’m an expert on undeath. Maybe I can make him un-UN-dead?”
“And I can put down any evil with this.” Rinku had returned, holding the Sword of Evil’s Bane in her hand. The Master Sword.
"No, I am no deity nor demi-god," Zarazu shook her head, making sure to stay humble. "I am simply the connection between the Seven Siblings and their children. I am magic. That is all."
“Fine. You’re a sexy ass kicker.”
Athena nodded to Manaco before looking to the older women. “Would you all met my mother at Zizi’s then? We’ll return to you shortly.”
"We will come up with a plan to help your nation," Zarazu assured the prince and princess. "We will meet you there in an hour."
~
One enormous temple was dedicated to the Seven Siblings. Each spirit had their own shrine where offerings were placed or given acts of worship. Vatra's part of the temple held hundreds of burning candles and a statue of the spirit herself. The fiery sibling was composed of nothing but the hottest flames in a silhouette of a woman.
"Vatra is like Exodrum with flames, Athena," Settling on his knees, Manaco summoned his own flame and used it to light a candle. "But she does not deem who is strong and who is weak by the measure of their fire, but by their heart."
Griffith had gone on ahead, citing his reasoning is he didn’t want to anger Exodrum until after they killed their uncle. Athena got on her knees, fascinated by the culture. “As long as she doesn’t appear as a shark. That’s so fascinating Manaco. Is she a god of peace and of kind nature then?”
"Vatra is actually a goddess," Manaco held up at candle for Athena to light in respect. "She commands all fire, from the depths of a volcano to the simplest flame of a hearth. Not only does she encourage us to find our passion, but she also expects us to fight for or work for what we want. A fire by itself can provide beautiful light and heat, but if we are not careful and go ablaze, then it can also destroy. There is two sides to each spirit here. The tranquil... and the deadly."
Athena nodded, lighting the candle. Tranquil Vatra... and a deadly Exodrum? That was her own conclusion. “I wonder if she’d listen to me. I... I wasn’t kind to your gods Manaco. When I was injured, I cursed your gods because I thought your mother might have caused my accident to spite my mother. That your gods would have allowed that. I’m sorry for that anger.”
"In moments of anger, it is easy to place blame. While many accuse the spirits of unfortune, I promise you, they are very benevolent. I'm sure the spirits will forgive you if you ask for it." Manaco set her candle next to his. "Vatra listens to each and every prayer. While she might not grant every request of personal value, sometimes, she will listen to a just cause."
Athena gave Manaco’s hand a squeeze for reassurance, her green skin smooth against his hand. Closing her eyes, she made her pray. “Vatra. Goddess of Fire. Please hear my plea. I ask you to find it in your heart to forgive my mother of any sins. I ask that you look after us as we struggle in times of violence, and that we might come to live in the coming days. I plea to you to lend us strength.”
Manaco remained silent as Athena said her prayer to Vatra. He had thoughts of his own spinning through his mind. How could he be a good ruler? Would he be a decent husband? Children were to be expected, was he cut out to be a model father? There were so many expectations with this upcoming change in his life. Yet, he had admired Athena from afar for so long. Now, to have her at his side... it seemed like a dream come true. The young man silently prayed to Vatra that she help him with the events, whatever may rise, in the future.
Finished her pray, Athena took a few deep breaths. “After this morning, Im glad she didn’t appear, to be honest.”
"Heh... I suppose my uncle the king is not the easiest person to deal with." Manaco rubbed the back of his neck. "He's not so forgiving and can be quite intimidating." He then was quiet for a moment before asking, "What do you... think of this union?"
“I was referring to Exodrum to be honest. Your uncle is an asshole, not a terrifying apparition.” Athena took some time to reflect on that before answering. “I understand my duty to my people. An arranged marriage was something I never thought I’d go through. Once I passed thirty years of age, I honestly thought myself too old for marriage. With my mother not aging, I didn’t worry about continuing the line. But now, my future is so undetermined. It’s scary and sudden. I can’t help but feel I’m a pawn to your uncles. On the other hand, I have no experience with dating. I’ve never even kissed anyone. Now I’m expected to get married, led the Empire, and give birth?”
Athena set the candle down, playing with the flame using her abilities as a way to calm herself. “I suppose I can’t complain. My mother’s sacrifices were so much worse. And she gave my brother and I happy childhoods free from strife, something she never got. To be truthful Manaco, it took all I had to not strike your father. My mother had hurt his family and yours with her actions, but she was never a tyrant. She was always kind to other Hasai and changed a system of glory seeking warriors into simply survivors who lived and worked alongside one another. He insults my honour by insulting hers with the title of tyrant. A tyrant wouldn’t have given up her throne to help their children.”
"He can definitely be a jerk sometimes." Manaco agreed, knowing full well of the 'incident' of long ago when his father first courted his mother. He patiently listened to Athena's words. She had reasonable fears of the unknown. It was to be expected. Yet, to his surprise, there was nothing negative about him. Part of him thought Athena might not wish for this union due to the differences between the two of them. She did make good points about her mother, yet, he could also see Covarog's side as well. To his uncle, Zannah was the person responsible for Kanisa's strife and suffering. In his eyes, that made her a tyrant. "My uncle... he's not like Lorleidians, not at all. I think that's why my aunt makes such a good match for him." He spoke quietly. "I know of the good your mother did for her people. Yet, I also know of the... not so savory acts she committed against my family and relatives. There's a lot of tension and mistrust, for sure. I suppose from one point of view and then other, a person can be seen as two different sides of a coin." Manaco gently brushed a wild strand of hair from Athena's face. "Though, I swear before Vatra, I will do my best by you."
Athena didn’t move away as Manaco brushed her hair. The woman smiled at his smooth move, a light chuckle escaping her pillowy lips. “I look forward to that Manaco.”
"Though do you think you could do something about your brother constantly glaring at me?" Manaco chuckled sheepishly. "I feel like he's trying to debate whether or not if he could get away with killing me."
Athena grasped both Manaco’s hands with her left, then stroked his cheek calm with her right. “I’ll talk to him. We only have each other as siblings, so he’s always been protective of me, and I of him. I’ll make sure he decides against hurting you, alright?”
"Thank you. I don't plan on starting a fight with him, nor do I want to hurt him." Manaco smiled at Athena's light touch. "I just don't want to see you upset if I do have to kick his ass." He jested in good humor. "I think I at least have a fair shot, right?"
“Perhaps. Our mother did have us be trained by T0-D though.” Suddenly, Athena looked worried. “He’s still at the palace.”
"Oh... what do you think T0-D will do, then?" Manaco asked Athena, knowing the robot had served the Kikai Empire for years on end. "Is he going with your mother to Danjur? Or will he stay?"
“He has right to whatever choice he’d like. He’s been rather depressed though lately.”
"... depressed?" Manaco repeated, not sure he heard correctly. "T0-D is... sad? ... sorry, I'm not doubting your truth, I'm just... the robot is always so sassy. So sure of itself. I don't think I've ever heard of or even seen T0-D being depressed."
"... he did?" Manaco looked surprised now. "I didn't think he cared for my mother all that much..."
"He likes the people he forms bonds with before they inevitably die from aging." Athena picked herself up, taking Manaco's hand to lift him up from kneeling.
"I recall he was very sassy and liked to call humans by the title of 'meatbags'." Manaco rose from his spot in front of the shrine. "That's... really it. Hopefully when you and I return to the empire, he'll find a new purpose if we give him something to do."
"Well, we can't get him to stop calling people meatbags."
~
At the house, Zannah bandaged up her arms, thinking over Bonegrinder's council over and over and over in her head. Finally, she picked herself up from the second floor of the barn and jumped down the ladder to go to Zizi's house. When she saw Zizi sitting on her front porch and waiting for the other women to arrive, Zannah paused. She opened her mouth to speak the words, then closed them. "Zizi..."
Fifteen children, twenty-seven years old marriage, ten greenhouses, and fifty plantations in Hyrule... that was Zizi's legacy here. In the Kikai Empire, she helped rebuild the fields for healthy crops and earned the trust and respect of the people who lived there. However, ever since she found out about how Zannah used Kahli and betrayed her family, Zizi had not stepped foot on Hasai soil. Yet, she could not do anything about a particular someone coming here of all places.
Zizi was not one to snoop, but she overheard Zannah talking to the huge snake. Forgiveness was... hard.
"To start... I'm sorry for throwing a punch at you. Can I sit beside you?"
"... the seat is open."
Zannah took it, looking out over the land of Hyrule. "Did you and Kahli choose this hill top on purpose? It's incredibly pretty to lookout over the landscape. I don't often I get to relax. To simply be at a peace of mind."
"My sister gave this land to Kahli and I for our first anniversary." Zizi figured for now, she'd humor Zannah. "He built this house for me and our children. Then again, it is a bit crowded sometimes, we never expected fifteen children."
"Fifteen children. I can't even imagine. Tell me, does having a father in their life makes things better for them?"
"Is that a trick question?" Zizi mused. "Yes, Kahli did his best by them. Spoiled them a little, taught them a lot, and loved them immensely. What more could I ask for?"
"A trick question? No. My children never had a father growing up. By the time they had Annuciata in their life, they were already in their mid teens. And hell consume me if I ever dared to take inspiration from my own father. So no, I don't think you could ask for more than a loving family." Zannah smiled with a silent sigh in her energy. "Tell me. What was your own father like?"
"I'm beginning to think you're attempting conversation, Zannah, to throw me off guard." Zizi watched as the sunset caused streaks of purple, orange, and pink across the sky. "I met him a couple of times before he died, I guess. I haven't seen him in decades, so I suppose he's passed away. Drunkard, gambler, womanizer... probably a good thing I can't remember him. He wasn't in my life. My mother died before I met her. My only 'parent' was my sister, Zarazu. She raised me from a newborn, Zolori from the time she was five, and Ba'puu from an egg."
"My mother was a concubine. A tool I was aware of, but never allowed to socialize with. My father was a sick, genocidal old man- no, a monster. Because of him I never had a proper childhood. I didn't know what love was for a long time. I only knew that I didn't want to bring my children the same harm. I suppose that is why I thought it acceptable to sacrifice the friendship we had. I was just another offspring from the ballsack of another monster." Zannah relaxed her shoulders, finally getting to the point. "I'm sorry I hurt you. I can't change history to make you forget, or ask you forgive me. But I will say I'm sorry."
"... I never thought you'd actually apologize." Zizi told Zannah, not looking directly at her. "I just... don't understand why. Maybe I'm incapable of it. Or perhaps I really don't want to know the answer. It could even be that it's my nature. A Zemlja doesn't like to hurt people and I have a hard time understanding why humans like to hurt other humans. Though when I found out about it... that was the first time I truly wished to hurt someone."
"I never took pleasure in hurting you." Zannah smirked at her knuckles, still bruised from punching Zizi. "Well, not with my plans anyways. I just shut you out because I felt it was easier for the greater good. Be grateful you never had to think about what's best for thousands of people. I thought that I could live with the betterment of thousands over just two friendships I made. I can't change what I did. Or even go into full details of my rational. I'm just sorry I hurt you. I stuck a stake through our friendship without a second thought because I honestly didn't recognize how deep our friendship was. How important friendships can be."
"Even if you didn't take pleasure from it or had any possible reason that this somehow was the best for your people... you can't expect to become a great leader from the sole purpose of using those around you, Zannah." Zizi said quietly. "Not only does it hurt them, but it can hurt you as well."
"It's defiantly hurt me. But not my people... yet I'm not here sitting beside you because it hurt me or them. I hurt you Zizi."
"You did. But not only me, Zannah. You hurt Kahli too. You hurt my family. They all adored you... and that was broken in an instant."
"I didn't even know..."
"You do now." Zizi sighed before saying. "I don't think I can forgive you. At least, not yet. I'm not there yet. I can't speak for Kahli or my family. I don't know if I'll ever trust you again. But... the least I can do is try to get along with you for the sake of my son." She clasped her hands together. "I never knew Manaco felt so strongly for Athena to get involved so deeply like this, though all I want is for him to be happy. For them to be happy. And if that means tolerating you... then I can do that."
"Alright. Then how about we start with tolerance?"
"I believe we both can do that." Zizi snorted in jest. "You would have given Venu'sa a bellyache anyway."
"Wouldn't it be heartburn?"
Zannah looked to the right to see Rinku, Leere, and both her and Zizi's children return. It seemed Athena and Mancao ran up to catch up with the others.
To view his mother sitting beside of Zannah without trying to tear out the woman's throat was... unsettling. Manaco wondered what the two of them were discussing. Either this was really good or really bad. He hoped everyone would be keeping their heads after this.
"Mom?" Manaco approached cautiously, eying both his mother and Zannah. "We spoke to Auntie Zarazu and paid our respects to Vatra at the temple... she will give us a few hands, but due to political reasons and the treaty, she cannot go herself. A queen attacking Hasai citizens that she has deemed as allies, regardless of a civil war, might be viewed poorly by others."
Zannah kept her face neutral at seeing a Leere and Rinku approach. Despite varied histories and feelings towards them, they were both remarkable fighters. They’d serve their purpose. Standing up, she whistled for Bonegrinder. “I don’t know how many have sided with my brother, but we are assured a fight. I will face my brother with Rinku. We can kill him then. The rest of you will deal with the traitors. You can kill them or incapacitate them; I care not which.”
Both Athena and Griffith nodded, not questing their mother’s order to fight.
"You're going to be at a disadvantage." Manaco treaded the waters carefully, not really wanting to piss off his to-be mother-in-law. "Your brother has Exodrum. And Bonegrinder can't show himself to the masses."
"He'd risk exposing himself to his yet to find, greatest enemy." Zizi knew that while Bonegrinder would do what he could to help, fighting a full-scale battle was out of the question. "He has to be able to remain hidden until Luimaya takes the throne. The snake is picking and choosing his allies now. Hence, why he agreed to help you."
“Hence why we need to move quickly. Rinku’s blade can slay anything with an evil heart, including gods.”
The warrior princess gave a solemn nod to confirm.
"You won't be able to get to your brother directly, he'll have others in the way." Manaco asked, "How should we clear a path?"
Zannah turned to Zizi and Leere. “I trust you both are still power kegs of magic, even outside Hyrule?”
Leere gave a light sigh. “There’s going to be a lot of casualties, aren’t there?”
"Anywhere there is earth, I have my magic." Zizi did not like the sound of what Zannah was going to ask her. "What is your point?"
“Can you deal with the masses using your magic?”
"Deal with them... how?" Zizi inquired, wanting a straight answer. "If you want me to restrain them or trap them, that's different than... just killing them."
“Restraint. Athena and Manaco can deal with their fates after.”
"... and you are sure you can stop Nihilus?" Zizi looked at Rinku for an answer. "Dirt can smother a fire, yet... if a fire burns too hotly, it can consume everything."
“Last I checked he’s flesh and blood. And this blades cut through darkness, flames, and scales.” Rinku unsheathed a part of the Master Sword, the blade humming a low frequency.
"Kahli isn't going to like this..." Zizi sighed, knowing her husband would raise hell. "I'm going to go talk to him. Start packing what you need."
Zannah looked to her children, she looked to Manaco, and she looked to the sisters. When Bonegrinder slithered out, she took Zizi by the hand and pulled her along. “We’re all ready. Bonegrinder. A portal to my palace please.”
"Green lady, take heed of Bonegrinder's advice," The Anagari made a portal with his magic and then said, "Some deities are more so benevolent than others. If one does not listen to your plea... try another."
“We’ll see.”
As Zannah pushed a Manaco and Zizi through, Kahli was little too late to stop them or go after them. “Wait! Where the hell are you going?!”
It was nighttime when Annuciata felt Zannah nearby. She blinked, rolled over, and looked at the clock. There was no way that kind of distance could be covered in that timeframe. Fumbling to put on a nightrobe, the Queen of Danjur stumbled to her bedroom door. Zannah was in... Athena's room?
Zannah raised a hand to her own mouth, a signal for Annuciata to be quiet. “My dear. I’m going to have to ask you not to scream or alert your guards.”
"How did... what..." Annuciata was fumbling for words as Zannah approached her. "How did you get here? You told me portal magic was not within your capabilities, and no dragon could possibly... possibly..." Her gaze traveled up to the two glowing red ones in the dark. Her breath hitched. "Wh-What is th-that behind you?"
Zannah grasped Annuciata by the cheeks, having her look directly into her eyes. “Events have transpired that I didn’t think possible. Can you listen to me and trust my word? This is very important.”
"If th-that's a d-d-demon---"
"It's not a demon, Queen Annuciata," Manaco stepped from the darkness to reassure her. "It's a friend. Please."
"... I trust you." Annuciata managed to quiver out a few words to her lover.
“I recently suffered an assassination attempt inside Hyrule’s borders from my own people. My enemies are advancing their resolve.” Zannah took a quick breath and interrupted before Annuciata could speak her worries. “I almost died. I would have if not for stumbling upon Princess Rinku and the Slatki residence. At Hyrule Castle I made agreements and new treaties with King Covarog and his allies. One of these allies includes the creature with red eyes that is not a demon. He’s just a powerful sorcerer. One that will heal my children and will help kill my enemies. But with that...” Zannah exhaled, feeling a weight on her chest pressure her. “I have to give up my throne. Effective immediately, and unofficially to my people, I am no longer Emperor. That will fall to Manaco and my daughter.”
This was a lot of information to take in at once. Annuciata honestly did not know what to think. She had no dealings with magic, her art was with machines. Yet, from what she could tell, Zannah had little to no choice in the matter. This was what her lover had to do to ensure the future of the Kikai Empire. For now, all Annuciata could do was nod.
"Our... our babies will be all right?"
“They will. It’s why I do this. There are other ways to kill my enemies, but not to give our children better futures.” Zannah parted the frazzled hair out of Annuciata’s face, leaning in to give her a light kiss. “Can you come wheel Griffith in?”
"I... I can do that." Annuciata swallowed thickly, thinking that she suddenly felt very thirsty. "Would your... um... guests, like some drinks? Food?"
"A whole cow would be fantastic, goldie." Bonegrinder spoke from the shadows. Zannah was rather insistent about him not frightening her lover anymore than necessary. "... and if that is in short supply, whatever else will suffice."
"Bonegrinder, we talked about this, you can't keep eating cows, it's bad for your health." Manaco groaned at the huge snake. "You need something other than red meat."
“You can provide wine, bread, and any left-over steak. Please hurry.”
As Annuciata left, Zannah pulled off her royal hair pin, letting all her dark hair loose and downwards. Taking a seat by her daughter’s bed, she took her hand. Even with all the talking, she was still asleep. “You know, I’m still not sure if the Lorleidian spirits didn’t plan this for what I did. Tell me Manaco. Are they known to be crafty?”
"The spirits are not malevolent, but they will protect what they deem theirs; we are their children, Zannah." Manaco knew all the stories that his mother told him. He knew all the tales from his Aunt Zarazu as well. "Lorleidians are magic incarnate. Without the presence of magic within us, we die. Our leader, Queen Zarazu, is our strongest tie to the Seven Siblings. When Vul'kar threatened the world, harmed our people, and tried to wipe us out, they helped us. Yet, they do also punish us for our failures," He said, "The disaster caused by the old king, Ganondorf, on Lorleidi, was due to the failure of Queen Yolandyi to keep the powerful artifacts from his hands to be used for evil. Thus, the calamity unleashed upon the islands. Though, they were warned what would happen if they should let one source of such magical power fall into the wrong clutches. So, to answer your question, Zannah," Manaco took a breath. "Yes and no. Yes, to the point of fighting darkness. No, to where they care for us. I am a Vatra, but also half Waku. Fire runs in my veins. If I were to go around cursing Vatra, I'm quite sure she'd appear from thin air to set my ass on fire to teach me a lesson. If I called on her for help to protect my loved ones, I'm sure then as well, that she would help me. It's what they do... they help theirs. They will help others too," Manaco told Zannah. "Yet... you have to have a humble heart. While I am strong, I do know that I cannot stand on my own two feet without aid sometimes. And you have to be humble to admit that. It's hard to do so... but necessary to show humility."
“You think they punished me for the hubris your mother claims I have by hurting my children? You think fate orchestrated this final outcome?”
After he finished speaking, Bonegrinder then said, "The children of Balance and Maker are protective. The children of Balance and Destroyer are tenacious. The bonds of Chaos will always cause havoc... what he speaks is truth, green, little lady. He knows... he has seen these gods and goddesses. He knows their words, their stories..." He hummed the age old rhyme, "Darkness and shadow bring nothing but dread, two can keep a secret if one is dead..."
"I cannot say for sure. Only my aunt might be able to provide that answer if she asked them directly, but... if I'm being completely honest," Manaco took a small inhale. "I don't think it was the spirits themselves. I believe this was part of the grand plan of the highest of high beings... not to punish you or your children. But maybe... simply to get your attention. Even you are not invincible, Zannah... though you may act it, you cannot, will not, ever be undefeatable."
“I’m not invincible Manaco. I simply wished to be the strongest. But no ones invincible.”
When Annuciata eventually came back with food, drink and Griffith, the prince was groggy, his eyes still closed. “Mother? Is that you?”
“Yes my boy. I’m here. I brought a friend who’s going to take care of you. No robot legs.”
“Good... they were shit and hurting my joints.”
“Come now. Be a little nicer to your prettier mother.”
"They were not shit, you were being the little shit." Annuciata gave Griffith a little swat on the back of the head. "I will have most fun telling your mother about your attitude later. For now, you are going to be the utmost polite to... to..." She faltered for a moment. "Manaco did say your name was... ahem... Bonegrinder?"
"Yes," He finally, slowly slithered out of the shadows. The Anagari was so large, he had to keep his coils wrapped to avoid taking up too much room, "Bonegrinder, at your service..."
Griffith shuddered in his chair, terrified by the appearance of the snake. “What is that?!”
Athena awoke at the sound of her brother’s scream. She could smell her mother’s scent. Why was she here?
"He is a boogeyman."
"Bonegrinder!" Manaco chided the shaman. "Stop trying to scare him!"
"What? You used to call him a boogeyman when you were little."
"Because you liked to scare me too."
"Hehehe, your father told me to do so cause you were being a naughty brat."
"Will you please behave?"
"Behave and Bonegrinder never go together in the same sentence." He dismissed Manaco's scolding and his scales flexed, moving his enormous body over to Griffith. "Hrm... lost his legs? Funny, Bonegrinder never had a use for them." He tapped the stump with a claw. "Can you feel that?"
“Feel what?! Get away from me!”
Athena could make out what Bonegrinder was after squinting in the dark from behind her bandages. Immediately, she shot a bolt of fire at the back of his hair. Zannah had to grab her by the arms and hold her tight. “No! Not the boogeyman. He’s an ally. It’s ok dear Athena. Mother is here.”
"You have terrible aim, Bonegrinder was at least another foot to the right. No, wait, he means, your left."
"Bonegrinder, she can't see like you can in the dark and due to the bandages."
"Oh... well then, you have satisfactory aim. But you should know that he cannot be killed by such a measly blast of fire, he is thousands of years old."
"Stop bragging and get to work."
"Hrm, well, little humpty-stumpty will have to be still." Bonegrinder tapped Griffith with his tail. "And his fireball sister needs to cool her head. This is delicate magic, regrowing limbs."
“Regrowing my-! Oh my god!” Griffith screamed as he saw his flesh mould and sprout slowly to new life.
"Will you hush, young child? You are squealing like a swine, and he does not care for it." Bonegrinder's tail slapped over Griffith's mouth to keep him quiet. "Hold still." He kept his magic work, slowly molding and shaping the first leg. The only oddity was the color of his skin, it was rather dark in color instead of matching his usual tone. "There... now, let's move onto the second one."
Annuciata held firmly to the back of Griffith's chair, trying not to shake. "This will be over soon, Griffith. Just stay strong."
Griffith’s brain couldn’t process his legs growing back without freaking out. How could any person? The mere fact was unnatural.
"Hmmm... not bad, though the discoloration should not be permanent. Give it a few days. New flesh tends to behave the way it wishes." Bonegrinder, then for testing purposes, poked Griffith's new big toe. Hard. "Feel that?"
Griffith answered by wildly kicking him. “Get away from me!”
"Hm, Bonegrinder stands by the goldie queen's observation; he doesn't like your attitude either."
"...! The legs... your legs work, Griffith!" Annuciata exclaimed, having never seen anything like it. "Goodness, Eleonora would love to know how you did that."
"Magic, goldie."
“Please Bonegrinder. Stop antagonizing my son with your monstrous presence and help my daughter.” She had only known him for less than 24 hours, and he was already growing on her nerves.
"Maybe he should show your son the trick he does with all the new ones; see if his head fits inside's Bonegrinder's mouth---"
"No." Manaco simply took the shaman's hand and pulled him over to the girl he crushed on for several years. "No more unlocking your jaw, that's creepy enough as it is. Now, can you help Athena?"
"Delicate little thing, are you?" Bonegrinder gently stroked Athena's hair, trying to calm the poor girl "Fixing a face is different than replacing lost limbs. The other brat didn't have any nerves to feel pain due to his absence of appendages. She does."
"... so you're saying this is going to hurt?"
"If he is being honest, that is what you humans called 'sugar coating' it. There is still rock embedded in her face. First, that will have to be removed." He carefully placed his huge hand on the side of her bandaged face. "And this side of her mandible is... it's crushed. Fusing bone back together will hurt the worst. Perhaps he should lull her to sleep to do this magic, spare her the pain."
Zannah took hold of her daughters hand, giving it a squeeze. “Us Ocho are Royal Hasai. Hasai fight any struggle with determination. We don’t fear pain, do we Athena?”
The younger woman nodded her head, committed to any solution.
"Hrm, something tells this old snake that you have never experienced pain like this. Though, whatever he says, you will not be swayed." Bonegrinder then told her, "It will go faster if you remove the bandages so he can work more so diligently. If you do not wish to remove them, it will take a little more time."
Zannah turned to Manaco and the other humans. “Can we please give my daughter privacy?”
Manaco was hesitant about leaving. He did not like the idea of leaving Bonegrinder alone with Zannah and Athena. The Anagari was loyal to the royal family of Hyrule, but he was twisted. His mind was warped after so long of living and the events he had seen. Two souls in one body had to be hell. Yet, he followed Annuciata out of the room with Griffith.
"Now, now, little one," Bonegrinder used a claw to rip one side of the bandages, to allow her to remove them. "It will be over soon, he promises. Just take a few breaths first."
Athena took a few silent breaths, readying her will to take on the pain.
"Now... breathe out and do your best not to move." Bonegrinder held both sides of her face and flooded her bones, facial muscles, and tissue with magic. The hardest was to reset her jaw since there were bone fragments everywhere since her mandible had been shattered. Pieces of rock embedded in her flesh slowly fell out of her face, dripping blood. After this was done, he melded her face together once more. The tissue stitched itself together, leaving naught but a few white lines. Once he had finished his work, he removed his hands.
Annuciata, Griffith, and Manaco could only hear the torturous gargles of pain from outside. As Athena’s jaw was fixed into place and her throat cleared, those gargles turned into screams. Yet she never asked for it to stop.
"Catch your breath," Bonegrinder instructed the young girl. "Now, try to move your jaw up and down, back and forth. Try to wiggle your tongue. Blink for this old snake."
Athena slowly did each step as instructed one by one. Zannah waited by her side with held breath. It broke her heart to hear her daughter in such pain, yet she held visibly strong for her.
"Any pain now?", the old snake asked.
Athena shook her head. Despite her face being healed, it was still mental trauma that kept her from speaking.
"You will have these small marks on your face due to the magic," Bonegrinder used his long tail to grab a hand-held mirror from the vanity in the room. "Yet, it is the best he can do. Even your brother will wear the effects of this old snake's magic. Now... one last thing, repeat after him." He hummed lightly, tapping his claws to the rhythm. "Don't laugh as death passes you by, for you might be the next to die. The grim reaper walks beside of thee, she comes for all, for you and me..."
Athena didn't mimic his words when she saw the mirror. Instead, she was merely transfixed by her image in the mirror. For years now she lived in total disfigurement. Zannah gently held her daughter's shoulders as the mother looked up to Bonegrinder. "Give her time to recover."
"Remember, little one, your magic's price has already been paid." Bonegrinder then looked at the meal that Annuciata had brought him. He took the tray's contents out into the hallway to eat... barely squeezing out of the door. The Anagari relayed the news to Annuciata, Griffith, and Manaco. "You can go in now"
Griffith was still mentally adjusting to the feeling of walking on legs and standing up, so he used Annuciata as a crutch. "Athena? Are you well?"
His sister looked towards the others. She felt a voice rise up in her mouth, but they got caught back in her throat.
"Careful, careful, watch your steps... take your time." Annuciata held steadily to Griffith. "No need to rush and fall."
"... Athena?" Manaco looked at her, feeling hopeful.
"I... do I know you?" Athena spoke in a small, parched voice. The handsome man seemed familiar.
Zannah and Griffith felt wonderfully relieved to hear Athena speak. Carefully, they embraced in a group hug. "Oh my children. I'm so grateful to see you both well. This is a happy night."
"Heh... it has been a while..." Manaco figured Athena might not remember him. It had been years, after all, since the two of them had last seen each other.
"Oh!" Annuciata squeezed the three members of her family tightly. "Eleonora will be so happy to know you're both all right. I ought to go wake her, but I know she's been up all hours of the night working. Let's surprise her in the morning for breakfast, shall we? We'll have a big pancake feast, like we used to when both of you were smaller."
"Yes. I assume that Bonegrinder and Covarog isn't so cruel as to tear us away so soon." Zannah hugged all three of them tighly.
Once done, Griffith was curious about Manaco's presence here. "Tell me Manaco, it is Manaco isn't it? Why are you here? You aren't a master mage, and you certainly aren't of noble stature."
"I'll let your mother fill you in on the details." Manaco figured it would be better coming from Zannah herself. "I am glad you are well... I'll give you some time." He opted to wait outside with Bonegrinder.
"...? Love? What did he mean by that?" Annuciata needed answers as well.
"I'm not going to be Emperor anymore. That will fall to Athena and Manaco to lead the Hasai. They will become Emperor and Empress."
Both the adult twins were stunned, mouths dropping with shock. Suddenly, Athena's voice rose from quiet to very loud, all in ear shot of Manaco. "I have to marry and share the throne with him?!”
"... that sounds like it is going over well, yes?" Bonegrinder ate another ham, bone and all. "Judging from her shrill voice, it seems my magic worked."
"Not funny, Bonegrinder." Manaco had an inkling that Athena would not be pleased, nor would Griffith. He felt a little bad about the way he had to obtain this position of power to help his family back home, but he would never again receive such a chance. Not to mention, when he did tell his mother, she was going to strangle him.
"... that sounds like it is going over well, yes?" Bonegrinder ate another ham, bone and all. "Judging from her shrill voice, it seems my magic worked."
"Not funny, Bonegrinder." Manaco had an inkling that Athena would not be pleased, nor would Griffith. He felt a little bad about the way he had to obtain this position of power to help her family back home, but he would never again receive such a chance. Not to mention, when he did tell his mother, she was going to strangle him.
"He is not going to lay a single finger on my sister! He's a peasant!"
"Don't I get a say in this?!"
"SILENCE!" Zannah boomed her voice, and her children fell quiet. "I sacrificed much as to give you both a functional future. To have the throne not fall into enemy hands, I have formulated a plan with Hyrule. Griffith. You will remain prince. As prince, you will assist your sister first and foremost in helping her and her knew husband lead the Empire. Athena, you will bring peace to our people and bare Manaco's children."
Griffth hissed at the idea while Athena's cheeks blossomed like a rose "W-what-"
"This is not negotiable. This is for the future of the Empire. Am I clear to you both?"
Both children looked to each other, thinking silently among themselves. Finally, they both nodded to their mother. "Yes..."
"Good."
"... he thinks that conversation went very well."
"Bonegrinder..."
"At least you know what they think of you."
"They think that way of anyone who is not them."
"Hm... you have a point. Royals are conceded that way, except for Mother."
"And...?"
"Your aunt is a close second, she used to be a peasant too, didn't she?"
"Oh good goddesses..." Manaco ran a hand down his face. "Now I understand why Uncle Ralnor calls you annoying."
"Bonegrinder takes that as a compliment, it takes a special person to be able to annoy your uncle."
Zannah called out to Manaco, wanting him back in the room. "Manaco. Come back here."
Annuciata was equally stunned at the news. She could not believe that Zannah made a deal like this without considering her childrens' feelings. She could not imagine doing the same to Eleonora. Still, she said nothing.
Manaco entered the room once more. He could feel Griffith glaring at him and Athena... seemed embarrassed?
"It's very, very late at night, and I am very tired. Here's whats going to happen. Griffith. You're going to go to bed in your own room. I will go to bed with Annuciata. Manaco, you will lie in bed with Athena. Any questions on your minds will be answered in the morning."
Now it was Manaco's turn to become flustered.
"Wh-What?!" He shook his head. "That's... I don't think Athena would like that too much. I mean, she just recovered. Maybe she wants some time to herself. If you want me to stay with her, I'll be glad to sleep on the floor."
"Like a dog? No. I'm not saying to have sex, but you will both sleep in the same bed. You're going to be a husband, a monarch, and lover to her, will you not? This is a start. Athena. Is this satisfactory to you?"
Athena felt so hot and dizzy, but she nodded. "Yes."
"Good. Everyone. Let's leave them to a good night’s sleep."
As Griffith walked past Manaco, the young man could feel a wrathful growl sent his way as well as see the death glare given to him. "I'll burn your tongue out if you hurt her farm boy."
Soon enough, it was just Manaco and Athena in the bedroom as Zannah shut the door behind them.
Manaco waited until Zannah was out of the room to speak to Athena.
"... do you even remember me?"
Athena slowly nodded her head towards him, speaking slowly and lowly once more. "You would come over to the palace during Hyrule's winters. You liked asking me questions and following me around. You were an annoying kid back then because it felt like babysitting. I once had to catch you from falling from a height that most certainly have broken your leg, all because you wanted to 'do something cool'. I'll never forget that."
"Heh... I could be persistent, couldn't I?" Manaco, ever since he was small, adored Athena. He thought she was beautiful, strong, and had such a love for her family. Yet, their two worlds were so different. His mother and father were not royalty. Her mother was an empress. He worked on a plantation all of his life to earn his living. She had a silver spoon in her hand since day one. They were opposites that way. "I... I know this is not ideal to you. Or your brother, for that matter. I know the two of you are very close." He spoke quietly. "Yet, this was one solution to a problem between our two countries. My uncle, Covarog, would have never allowed one of his children to marry you due to past contempt. Yet, I am his nephew... and I knew you..."
"You proposed this? ... oh." Athena blushed, looking at Manaco more closely. He certainly wasn't the worst choice. Physically strong, very forward with his intentions. "Did you have a crush on me Manaco?"
"I thought that was obvious since I followed you around like a lovesick puppy when I was a child." Manaco did not seem too embarrassed by admitting such a fact. More so, he seemed... sad. "However, even back then I knew, as I know today, that our worlds were too different to obtain your hand in marriage by usual means. Your mother would have said no."
"Was she blackmailed into this Manaco? Please tell me the truth."
"Yes and no." Manaco was not going to lie to Athena. "She was given a choice. If she wanted my family's help in securing her kingdom and healing you and Griffith, then this was part of the price. She did not have to accept, but she did."
"Oh..." Athena didn't know what opinion to have on that. "If she did it to heal us... then that's noble." Athena took a few deep breaths. "So... Manaco. Do you sleep in your undergarments or n-n-naaaa-not with clothes?"
"Clothes! I mean, I sleep with some clothes on. My... underpants." Manaco answered quickly, "I don't sleep in the nude. Though I don't have to sleep beside of you if you are not comfortable. Your mother might have insisted, but she's not my priority. You are." He then realized how forward he was being and actually did turn a touch dark in the cheeks. "I-I mean... you know what I mean."
"Very well..." Athena crawled into bed, patting for Manaco to sleep right behind her. God, she was a woman in her thirties and she had no experience in sleeping with another man. "She's right that we need to become more... comfortable."
"... I am a man of my word. I will not try anything that you do not wish now, or in the future." Manaco slowly slipped off his shoes and then his pants and shirt. Then, he released the tie holding back his thick dreads. Slipping into the bed, he sighed at how comfortable the mattress was.
Athena's needed to work out again and become properly fit once more, but she hadn't eaten too much since coming to Annuciata's, so she was rather thin. Inching back, she became little spooned against his body, she too, only wearing lace pajamas now. Their bodies were rather hot together. Athena immediately regretted it, because she became paralyzed against his body with embarrassment. He was a thick man.
"... if you're not comfortable, I will move." Manaco felt her stiffen on the bed. "Neither of us will be able to rest, and you need it after what Bonegrinder did."
"Oddly, I'm not too tired and, well, I feel if I move I will run away, and I will never be able to come back to you. Let's just get through this. You're not the worst possible partner you know." The Princess took a deep breath, taking hold of one of his hands. "You will have time to woo me with time."
"... what if I gave you a year?" Manaco asked Athena as she took his hand. He gave it a small squeeze in return. By the spirits, she looked so tiny. "Of course, I know we'll be wed, but... a year for us to get used to each other. We won't do anything you do not wish to do. A year of courtship. I guess, you could say we'd do it a bit backwards."
"You want sex now?!" That jolted Athena off his body, grabbing the blanket to cover herself. That was usually the last step for normal couples after all.
"No!!!" Manaco sat up just as equally fast. "No, sorry, damn it, I'm a fool with words. What I meant was, we'll still have a period of courtship. I know we'll have to be wed to appease your mother. Yet, during that time we don't have to have sex, or a kid, or anything like that. It will just be about you and me."
"You are terrible with them. God. You're lucky you're handsome or I would have no idea how we'd start off this courtship." Athena slowly settled down, opting to look him in the eye as she laid down to sleep instead.
"Sorry... I'm not much of a poet. Then again, my father isn't either---wait..." Manaco arched an eyebrow at Athena. "Handsome?"
"Yes?"
"... I think that's the first time you've paid me a compliment. Other than 'you're an annoying brat', that is." Manaco grinned. "Have to be annoying to get the attention of a beautiful princess."
"Beautiful?" Athena blushed, throwing a pillow at his face. "You're an embarrassing young man, you know that?"
"Hey!" Manaco laughed when she hit him with the pillow. He said in good humor, "If you start a pillow fight, I assure you, you most certainly will not win. I am the undefeated champion of pillow fights, you know. I have ten sisters and four brothers."
Athena had the first fun idea prop in her head in a long while. She replied by standing tall and smacking him with another pillow. "Less talk, dear 'husband'. Show me your Hasai warrior spirit!"
"Oh, you're going to regret that, 'wife'." Manaco picked up another pillow and hit her across the side with it. "Let's see how many hits it will take for you to go down."
Meanwhile, as both the young adults play fought, Zannah sighed as she went to bed with Annuciata.
"... I think you have a lot to fill me in on, my love." Annuciata was still rather frazzled by having a giant, snake monster in her castle. "Though I will be patient enough to wait until tomorrow."
"... at the risk of sounding selfish, does that mean you get to stay here with me?" Annuciata asked her lover. "I do think Athena is well groomed to be a great leader. I also believe Griffith will help her in any way I can. I'm just... really surprised that Manaco was the choice. I thought he'd have certain qualms against your family due to what happened in the past, yet... he does have that little twinkle in his eye when he looks at Athena."
"That he does. They'll be good for one another in time. And me?" Zannah answered Annuciata’s selfish desire by suddenly turning to her. With deep passionate kiss, she held Annuciata first. "How tired are you?"
"... I don't think I'm going to sleep another wink with that snake monster roaming my halls." The Queen of Danjur shuddered. "I've never seen such a monster. I heard Ralnor speak of stories concerning Omisha and the 'Echidnan' race that live there, but I always thought he was trying to scare me. And he was telling the truth, and I feel unnerved."
"How about I help you relax." Zannah went low under the covers, grasping Annuciata by the thighs to eat her out. "Think of all the things we can do now that we aren't separated by obligations to our own countries. Well, at least me to mine."
"OH!" Annuciata nearly jolted off the bed when Zannah's talented tongue suddenly made contact with her nether regions. It had been a while. Too long, in fact. "You know, if you stay here full time---oooh, that's good--- there's a chance---FUCK, that we may never leave the bed!"
"I'm fine with that. Would it be frowned upon to make our relationship public now?" Zannah's tongue dug deep, lifting Annuciata's lower body off the bed as she lapped her up.
"Seeing that E-Eleonora is of age to take the th-throne, I could---shit, shit, shit..." Annuciata was having a hard time forming words as Zannah teased her. "R-Retire and we could just---ahhh, right there..." She took a sharp inhale. "Spend our days together."
"You should convince her then." Zannah's pussy was already wet. Dropping her pants down, she positioned herself over Annuciata, and with hard friction she started to scissor her. "Public or not, you're gonna--- fuck--- be my wife."
"O-Oh... I-I'm already... c-close!!!" Annuciata was gripping the sheets tightly, already about to unwind. It had been so long, and the touches were already making her head spin. She was trembling, her legs shaking from the overload of pleasure. "Please, please, please..."
“Please what?” Zannah was teasing, pulling just a little away to play the role of dominatrix. She’d get readjusted to being a prime physical lover in short time again.
"Quit t-teasing me!" Annuciata pouted at her lover, trying to wrap one flexible leg around the woman's waist to pull her closer. "Please... just l-let me cum."
Zannah pushed deep again to feel her clit over load her senses. With a deep, satisfied growl she came with her lover. “Oh fuck that’s good~”
Annuciata's toes curled as she climaxed with a soft cry, her head pushing back into the pillows. Breathing heavily, she had a flush on her cheeks. "Th-That... was... was very nice."
Stamina to spare, Zannah picked up Annuciata bridal style, giving her a little swirl on the bed, and finally planting a kiss on her. “I’m glad that you found it so.”
"Do you think you'd be happy here, Zannah?" Annuciata asked her lover. "In Danjur? It's... very different than what you're used to in the Kikai Empire."
“I’d be happy with you.”
"We, of course, would visit Griffith and Athena as often as we could." Annuciata then sighed and said. "I am a little worried for our babies... Griffith seems to resent the fact that a 'farmer boy' is supposed to be his sister's husband. You don't think he'll start a brawl, do you?”
“Imagine he might. If Manaco is a proper Emperor he will have to face adversity.” Zannah settled nicely behind Annuciata, her tiny perky breasts poking into the woman’s back. “There will be much adversity, but they will prevail. They must prevail.”
"... you do realize this makes Zizi..." Annuciata cleared her throat. "Athena's mother-in-law. So no matter how much you might still would like to... you can't kill her."
Zannah actually laughed mockingly at the thought. “My dear Annuciata. If anyone wants to kill anyone, Zizi would try to kill me at the marriage recital. Such a thing is beneath royalty to kill the common folk.”
"... speaking of which, does Zizi even know this is going to happen?" Annuciata envisioned a beautiful wedding turning into a bloodbath. "You know what? I don't want to know if she does or doesn't. We can take Athena shopping tomorrow for her dress!" She thought of all the famous shops on Main Street. "Oh, she's going to be a vision."
Zannah could only warmly smile at the Annuciata’s positivity towards the future. “But first you need proper rest. Don’t want heavy bags under our eyes, do we now.”
"If anything, you're keeping me from proper rest with these nocturnal activities of pleasure." Annuciata accused with a laugh. "And we'll tell Eleonora, first thing in the morning."
“Then you can follow my example.” Zannah took a deep breath, closed her eyes, relaxed, and fell into a slumber shortly after. It was the best sleep she had in ages.
Kahli’s head was throbbing. Every muscle of his felt like agonizing hell. His blood was dry on the edges of his mouth. How did he-
“Zizi.” With one name spoken unconsciously aloud, he remembered everything. One of his offspring from the islands arrived. His mind was racing, worries of his family in danger. That thought switched to his relationship to Zizi. By God. The lie he had been forced to keep for so long was finally revealed. And she blasted him. She blasted him! She nearly killed him! He never laid a finger on her with violence all his life as she nearly obliterated him without wanting an explanation. The next thought rested on the life debt. Would his mind shut down from the psychological burden of not being able to follow Zannah’s command? Did it even matter now the truth was out? Maybe not. Finally, his mind rested on his son. It was Manaco’s birthday, and he needed to see his boy.
Getting up from the medical table in a calm state, Kahli silently made his way to begin the journey to his son’s house.
"Will you stop nagging?"
"I'm not nagging, I'm telling you, the picture is crooked!"
"Your head is crooked!"
"Manaco, Ahusaka, stop arguing, everyone will be here in two hours for the party, and your squabbling won't make things go any faster." Urboro told her arguing brothers. "Now, one of you come over here and help me with this banner."
"I'll help you since you got the short genes of the family." Miku teased her sister.
"Like Mom."
"Shuddup and help me with this stupid banner."
Kahli had reached the house long ago. He didn’t try to hide his disheveled look, or the fact his suit was almost reduced to rags. His head rested on the door for ten minutes, the weight of his personal sins blunted into his mind like a dagger. Listening to her happiness, he felt terribly guilty. This was supposed to be his son’s special day, and, in some ways, he’d ruin it today. Finally, with only half a breath to gang courage, he walked through the door.
"What the ever-living fuck?" Urboro had no filter, just like her aunt, Zolori. "Dad! What happened?!"
"Did you pick another fight with Uncle Covarog?" Miku asked dryly, knowing all about their little spat. "I told you that's a bad idea, you'll upset Mom."
"Or did you try to hunt an over-sized boar again and it buck you off?" Ahusaka winced. "I remember that it cut you open with that tusk."
"Dad, seriously? What were you thinking? I'd like for you to be alive on my birthday." Manaco shook his head. "Sit down, I'll get you a drink."
Kahli’s eyes darted between his children. Every time he thought he had something to say, it didn’t form aloud. Sitting down, he waited for his son to get him that drink.
"So, what was it? Fight? Boar? ... gravity increasing upon you?"
"No one likes a smartass, Manaco."
"Tolerate me for a day, okay? It's my Name-Day."
Kahli stared out the window for a moment, taking sips from the beer his son provided. “Your mother, justifiably so, tried to kill me.”
The siblings exchanged glances and started to snicker.
"Good one, Dad."
"We all know Mom doesn't like to fight."
"If she wanted to kill you, you'd be dead, you know how she is when she's mad."
"Besides, Mom doesn't have a reason to kill you, you probably just got ruffed up in a spar, right?"
Kahli gave them a gaze that looked through them. “I... hell take me. I cannot even reveal the contents of the life debt to you all, even now. No matter how much I wish I could break through the shackles of my biology. Children. I love you. Everything I’ve done has been done to keep you all and your mother safe and happy. But I’ve hurt her. I tried so hard not to, but I did. And she nearly killed me for it. You’re going to hear things about me from her. Information that is true, and truths I cannot share myself.”
Now, all the siblings had their full attention on their sire. Worriedly, the brothers and sisters looked at each other before Manaco stepped forward.
"Dad? What is it?" He felt anxious. "Is... is something wrong with you? With Mom? What's going on? You're scaring us."
"Scaring is an understatement."
"Hush, Urboro."
“I want to tell you, but I...” Kahli grasped the sides of his head, fury building up inside. “Being a Hasai is a curse. Too loyal, too many burdens. That woman. I let her use me because my body wouldn’t let me refuse. I can’t believe your mother tried to kill me. Her anger is just, but to strike me? How could she? I loved her through the burden of my secret. I did everything to guide her safety through life. It tears me up that I can’t just TELL YOU!” Kahli was now clawing his skin, nails digging into flesh.
"Okay, this is more serious than a birthday party." Manaco motioned for his siblings to follow him. "We'll go talk to Mom. You stay here, get some rest, and there's food and water in case you need it. There's no way Mom would hit you without a damn good reason. We'll be back." With that, Manaco and his siblings hurried out the door.
Kahli waited in the house, silence his only companion now. How long did he wait? He had no idea. He scarcely remembered the dinner he devoured, or the drink he consumed. Time just didn’t phase him. He even thought of castrating himself, just as Zizi desired.
It was a long talk with her eldest children. Needless to say, all of them were shocked. The secret was... hurtful. There was no foundation left for trust. Their father had lied not only to their mother, but to all of them. Their mother blasting their father halfway across their home was another issue. While none of them liked violence, all of them agreed they had never seen her so angry or so upset before. She looked... devoid of hope. While Manaco took their mother up to the bedroom to rest, the group of brothers and sisters tried to save face. "I... what are we going to do?" Miku felt awful.
"Mom's... hell, I've never seen Mom like this. Never seen Dad like this." Urboro ran a hand down her face.
"This won't be fixed. Can't be fixed." Ahusaka had his arms crossed and was in deep thought. "Mom will never trust Dad again."
Outside Zizi’s house as the group were talking, Grievous had made herself back from the bench she waited patiently on. Kahli never came by here, so she had no idea where to look for him now. She was set on retrieving Sylvain and flying out to look for him. Spotting more half siblings, she froze.
The rest of Zizi's and Kahli's brood were coming home from school. Keira had finished work for the day and went to fetch them. Every single day, all the Slatki kids traveled from home, to school, and then back home together at the end of the class. All of them were laughing, talking, or teasing one another. They were all happy... and had no knowledge of the strife behind their house's door.
Grievous observed from afar, her Wyvern being small enough to sneak around lightly without detection. Going to the fountain, she spotted her fathers blood was still intact and not cleaned away. Her companion took a sniff of the blood and picked up a scent at her command. Climbing on the saddle, she patted his side. “Fly. Go to him.”
As soon as the rest of his brothers and sisters entered through the door, Manaco felt his stomach sink. How was he going to explain this to them? Zizi had cried herself to sleep and his siblings had no clue. He had to keep their family together... somehow.
~
At Manaco’s house, Kahli still waited. He knew in his heart of hearts that no one would come back, least not so soon. Standing to get another drink, the door was suddenly kicked open. Before him, the same girl appeared. The same girl that helped bring his world done. Only now, she had paint down just half her face. The clearer side of her face was the same pigment of colour as him. He loathed it. “Get out of my sons house.”
“This time, you will not cast me aside so easily.”
Kahli lunged forward with an empty beer bottle. Grievous ducked, kicking high with her left foot. It sent the bottle flying into the air, raining glass down. Immediately, Kahli and her engaged in hand to hand combat. Both were ruthless, using the claws of their nails to cut deep, punching the days fresh wounds on one another. Every hit they inflicted on the other stung heavily. Finally, Grievous had the upper hand, kicking Kahli out the front door and out onto the road. “You should rejoice father. I am a warrior of the Waku. This is what you wanted, no?”
She tried to throw a punch as he was still recovering. The man caught it, and her hand sizzled with his flame generating from his body. To two Waku, however, this merely was a visual indicator the fight would grow more serious instead of being burnt. “You are not my child. I never asked to be your father.”
Pulling her arm forward, Kahli slugged her in the face with his free arm. He kept her in place, punching her twice more.
Growing weary, Grievous kicked Kahli in the chest, and explosion of lightning sending him flying back into the gravel of the road. Fire could be absorbed, but electricity was another matter. “You let the Emperor create an army from your DNA.”
“My life debt gives me no choice. I did everything I could for my family regardless of the predicament I was in. You coming here jeopardizes their lives. Foolish girl.”
Kahli rose, and blasting the ground with fire to rock himself forward, he dived kicked right into Grievous’ chest before she could react.
The girl slammed into a piece of fencing, reopening her head wound once more. To be honest with herself, she was scared. Kahli was using fire to effectively harm her, something unknown to most Waku. She feared she wouldn’t live long to use such brilliant tactics herself. “You didn’t even think of me? You didn’t think of the others?”
“It was forbidden girl. I had my own family to attend to. You think anyone could possibly be father to hundreds? Surrender, go home, and never come back. I’m sure you have your own family who is concerned for you. A mother. Half-siblings who care for you on whatever island you reside.”
As Kahli walked towards her, his hands knuckles cracked. “Or maybe I should turn you into a bomb and be done with it.”
“What?” No Waku she knew had that power, but she believed it from the conviction in his voice. Despite her fears, she took another battle stance. “If it means making an impression on you, then I’ll gladly die.”
“You’ll what?” Kahli paused just advance, taken aback. Grievous used this moment to try and another attack of lightning, but Kahli caught her hand. At first it shot in the air past his face, but at a twist, the energy quickly fizzled out. “To throw your life away so carelessly, where is the point of that?!”
What ended the fight wasn’t another punch, or blast of lightning, but a slap to the face from the man. Grievous’ voice was high from that, and she fell to the ground. Her father looked down at her, crossing his arms and shaking his head. “My life in shambles. No thanks to you... but no thanks to my fault as well. To tell you the truth, I simply don’t have the heart to kill you. Stay. Go. I’m going back inside for another drink. Think about your own mortality.”
While townsfolk shuddered at the battle and the magic being launched about, Grievous picked herself up to follow Kahli like a puppy who didn’t know anything else better.
Kahli sat on a chair, grabbing another bottle of beer. Seeing Grievous join him in silence, he went to pantry to grant her a drink of water. Separate, they had their beverages in silence.
It took a long while to explain what happened to his younger siblings. All of them were notably upset. Some had no words, others had many. Anger, hurt, and sadness... all of it was overwhelming. Ahusaka and Keira volunteered to look after the siblings while Manaco went to talk to their father. The slight amount of destruction was... notable. Something happened. Entering his own house, he saw... a stranger sitting there. The stranger Keira told him about. The one who was responsible for lifting the lid on his father's box of secrets.
"Dad... we need to talk."
“Haha, do we?” Kahli laughed bitterly. “No doubt you have learned the truth that I have been forced to keep inside for so, so long.”
"Yes." Manaco glanced at Keira. "She's my baby sister. I know that much."
“Her? From a certain point of view. Yes.”
"I want to know how all this came to be, and why... no..." Manaco took a breath, trying to reign in his anger. "I want to know how you could do something to my mother like that."
“Manaco. You remember that time you walked in on that flower garden I was going to make for your mother and all the siblings you had at the time? I know how much it excited you, and I knew you wanted to tell the others. But then I made you keep a promise. You later described it to me as a mental tick. You were still terribly excited, but you kept your word to not tell a soul until it was revealed. Tell me son, do you remember?”
"Of course I remember, but this is way different than a flower bed, Dad." Manaco did not look too impressed. "Secret or not, this... spirits, why Dad? Why?!" Manaco punched a hole in the wall to keep from lashing out at his own father. "Why must you always go crawling back to Zannah?! If you're so loyal to her, why did you stay with Mom?!"
Kahli gave his son a look after he punched a hole in the wall. It was the look to calm down, or he’d have something to be mad about. “There is nothing of loyalty about it. A life debt to a Hasai is similar to a promise, only so much more. Can you imagine being a prisoner to your own mind son? To scream out the pain you feel at a secret you keep, but are unable to share? How dare you express a will for violence when you don’t try to even understand the prison I’ve been in against my own mind and spirit. You think I wanted this? For you to break so easily is pitiful. No. It’s insulting. Despite being humiliated all my life, I’ve done nothing but care for and love you all. Especially your mother.”
"Don't you turn this around on me. I have a right to be angry too, and so does she!" Manaco pointed at Grievous. "I don't have to imagine being a prisoner, cause I never would have allowed myself to be one in the first place! Don't you understand?!" He growled. "Mom doesn't trust you anymore. She told me, personally, and I quote 'if he walks through that door, I'll give him another reason to hurt'. That's not how my mother acts! My mom doesn't want to hurt someone. This family is trying to fall apart, but I did my best to explain back there to all my brothers and sisters what happened. They're all furious with you and they're all hurting."
“I fell into The Emperor’s hand a long time ago. How was I to imagine that she’d do THIS to me? To have me be a vessel to raise my tribe from the depths of genocide.” Kahli stood tall, getting eye to eye with his son. “Zannah made it clear she would take you all away if I refused, if by some miracle I broke free from the mental chains of my debt to her. And I believed her. I have done nothing but love, care, and look after you all. Be furious, but know I did everything for you all while under her pressure.”
Grievous was going to add something, when Kahli started to spew more hurt anger. “She can try. But that is my house as well. That is my memories I made with her. I never hurt any of you, least made a move to kill.”
"You think I don't know that?! We know that you love us, took care of us, still look after us!" Manaco shouted. "I'm trying my best to see your point and my mother's point, but I don't want to pick a side! I want this to go back to normal, and I know it's not, and what's killing me, is having my younger sisters who don't fully understand, asking me why Mom is mad at Dad. I explained it the best I could, but all they know, is Mom and Dad are fighting and they don't like it. So you," Manaco opened the closet door and pulled out a pillow and a blanket. "Are going to stay here until Mom calms down, and you," He pointed at Grievous. "Are going to my Mom's house. She doesn't want you staying here, cause you two aren't going to start up a ruckus again, she's not going to deal with it. My house, my rules. Go."
“Manaco... no. If we don’t talk now, she’ll talk to her sisters. Then Zarazu will tell Covarog, who will tell Ralnor and this whole situation will grow so much uglier.”
Grievous shook her head. “Why should I go there?”
"Mom said she doesn't want to talk to you right now and she's got a whole barricade of plants, vines, and thorns around the house." Manaco shoved the pillow and blanket into his father's arms. "And Mom's not so foolish to tell them until she calms down. She knows how 'precious' the alliance is with the Empire, and that my aunties would want to throttle you. So no, she's not telling them." He then pointed to the door. "Mom said with her, you'll respect her wishes, and you'll respect my wishes as your older brother. Now."
“Older brother? You are the eldest child of Kahli?” Grievous looked ten times more rigid and defensive around him then she did with Keira.
"Yes, I am." Manaco told Keira sternly, "I am the eldest of all fifteen of my brothers and sisters. Sixteen now."
“Try 669 others.”
“What?!” Kahli yelled out. Even he was blindsided by the number.
"... eldest of them as well." Manaco took a slow breath.
Kahli had no idea how to process that. With a definite number, he only came to one conclusion as he breathlessly whispered it in defeat to himself. “And yet not even close to finishing the life debt.”
"By the spirits, no wonder Mom lost her shit." Manaco muttered under his breath. "Look, I'm only going to say this one more time. Go to my mother. While you're here, she'll help you. Make sure you take your lurking pet outside as well." Then he said firmly, "And you are staying here with me so my mother will not strangle you."
Both Grievous and Kahli looked to Manaco, contemplating it over. Finally, they both agreed with a ‘fine’, one more begrudgingly, the other with very little care.
The girl jabbed her finger at Manaco’s chest. “I want to challenge you to combat to test your reign of eldest sibling. Tomorrow of course.”
Manaco was already on edge. He had a darkness in his eyes. Backing Grievous up against the wall, he was radiating a foul aura. His mother was heartbroken. His father had kept a horrid secret that could potentially break the family apart. And now, his supposed little sister wanted to fight him.
"You're an idiot if you think you will win against me." Manaco whispered menacingly. "Get. Out."
“I... understood.” Grievous inched her way to the door, doing very well to hide her fear of him. In fact, it was that fear that made her comply with going to Zizi’s.
Kahli rose up to get another bottle of beer. He must have gone through half his son’s supply in the fridge. “I think she gets this fighting spirit from her other half. I don’t know any Hasai that picks so many fights. War is one thing, but brawls? Nonsense.”
"What is nonsense is the whole idea of a life debt to a so-called 'Empress' who sees you as nothing but a pawn. My family as nothing but pieces on her board." Manaco was angry with his father, but he had to try to think of a solution. While he did not want his father dead, Manaco was afraid that if his mother lashed out again at his sire, he would be six feet under the ground. "None of my siblings nor I are ever going to return to the Empire. You, on the other hand, decide what you want more and help me figure out a way to get you out of this mess."
“What I want more? I wanted, still want, to be with your mother. She is who I am loyal to. What I am to Zannah is a biological and spiritual bond of Exodrum and being a Hasai. I physically cannot deny her wish so long as I’m indebted to her.”
"Do you want to stay indebted to her or do you want to figure a way out of this mess?" Manaco asked his father, "Cause from what I understood, your life debt isn't over and may not be over before you're on your death bed. Sit here and think on it." He then said, "Get some sleep. I'll deal with you in the morning."
“Deal with me?” Kahli grabbed his son suddenly by the collar, throwing him onto the couch. Besides combat drills, this was the most physical he’d ever been with him. “You speak of me as some animal? A burden? You will do well to mind your tongue boy. And think on it? How? You want us to beg Zannah? To throw our hands and knees down to her? Or should we perhaps seek the council of a God? You listen to me Manaco. I’m going in to town to fix your fence. I am going to go to sleep. In the morning, I will go to work. What you will do is sit on this couch and think. You think about how my honour has been nothing but abused, and how lucky you are patience is my greatest virtue. Am. I. Clear?”
"Don't. Fucking. Touch. Me." Manaco growled at his father. "You won't win me over with a pity party. Mom told you long ago that Zannah was bad news. You still defended her, and Mom chose to have faith in you and now look where it has gotten her. You may blame it on the life debt, but I'm not a fool. You have more loyalty to the Empire than here." He shoved his father out of the way. "Patience? Your greatest virtue? Ha! Your greatest talent is keeping a secret." He then walked up the stairs. "I got another shift in a few hours, and I'm going to rest. I don't care what you do."
Kahli said nothing to his son. If he didn’t care what he did, then those were his words. With that, Kahli made left his sons house. Up until the moon rose over Hyrule, he went to town and back, fixing all the damage and cleaning up the mess in his house. Finally, he went inside to shower. This day... this day was the beginning of the end for him. And Kahli knew things would never be the same.
________________________________________________________________
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