Discovery, part 1
Title: Discovery
Series: Legend of Zelda
Chapters: 1/2
Pairing: Link x Zelda
Genre: General/Romance
Word Count: 4,500
Rating: K+
Summary: "I was never the same after I met twilight."
"Neither was I, but I never left."
AN: Forgive my absence. Any of you readers following Trifold will be gold to know it will soon be revised/updated once I get this story finished off; it's been in my e-mail for two years and I've always wanted to finish it and finally found the time to do so. It was originally a one-shot, but became too long for one chapter. Chapter two is in the works and will be out sometime tomorrow. In the meantime, check out Trifold in my journal if you haven't already! Thanks for reading!
Discovery
Being located between the royal city and the Lake Hylia, the old Silvaen manse wasn’t without its share of world-weary travelers and the occasional merchant. Through the years, old man Se’vir (who used to be a knight of sorts before he counted his battle wounds and decided life was too precious to spend in such a way) learned to never turn down any wanderer who appeared at his manse. After all, when certain visitors were sent one’s way, who was to say that there wasn’t a purpose behind the encounter? He had met his wife that way.
The skies had cried the whole day through; the lake, quite a ways from the manse, would be swollen, and it’d take the entire coming week to see it back at its regular level. The servants watched as the winds buffeted the leaves off their posts on the branches, and a certain serving girl in the kitchens gazed in horror as the azaleas the gardener’s apprentice had planted for her gave way to the fierce hailstorm just reaching its zenith.
The clouds, inflamed with water, thundered overhead as the sun hid its face from the coming onslaught. The evening came fresh and cold as the early winter pushed through the drowsiness of fall. The stableman, prone to falling under the weather, exasperatingly grunted as his wife fussed over the three consecutive sneezes he had given her upon entering their quarters.
And all Se’vir had to say when his wife Malily commented on the storm was, “We shall receive a visitor tonight,” accompanied by a gracious smile.
Soon enough, a man appeared at the manse gate shortly after the evening meal ended, and the gatekeeper, wringing his hands and fussing over the manse’s newest guest, hurried him through and into the mansion, quite shocked to see anyone in that storm. The doorman, also shocked at the prospect of adventuring that storm, exclaimed his bravery as he pushed the fatigued visitor toward the parlor. Thrusting him onto a sofa, dripping wet clothes and all, the doorman rushed to alert the master, taking note of the sword that hung at the visitor’s side.
The visitor stared about the room, dazed from all the hurrying and thrusting and embarrassed for having ruined the sofa with his drenched garments. He tugged his gloved hand through his tussled blonde hair and closed his eyes for the moment, wondering if he dared lean against the back of the sofa in his state. He dared, and was rendered vulnerable to the stares of the mistress’ handmaidens and the kitchen girls who peeked through the parlor’s glass doors. Like children yearning for a piece of freshly baked pie, more girls gathered around the doors to catch a glimpse of the manse’s caller.
The master wouldn’t be down from his chambers anytime soon, they reasoned, and goaded one young girl into entering the parlor.
“What shall I say to him?” Marilis, the girl chosen, pleaded bashfully when they pushed her forward.
“Here,” called one of the more brazen cleaning girls and pressed a small cloth into Marilis’ hand. “Tell him the master sent it ahead of him.”
“You want me to lie, Karlie?” Marilis replied, shocked.
Karlie pushed her way through the throng of dazzled females. “Fine. I’ll do it if you’re too frightened of the visitor. He’s more around my age anyway.” She reached for the cloth, but was stopped when Marilis pulled back.
“No, no. I’ll do it.” She took a shaky breath to settle herself and approached the door. Peering through, she could see the visitor had shifted his position on the sofa. His body was slanted, bangs gracefully falling over his face. He was young, much younger than she had originally thought. Why was he traversing Hyrule during such a storm? she wondered as her eyes traced over his tattered tunic and worn boots.
Hand on the doorknob, Marilis couldn’t back down. Every eye was on her back as she pushed on the door. Hearing the slight creak as it gave way, she opened the door wide enough for her to slip through. The man shifted again, this time giving the young maiden full view of his face. A faint scar traveled the length of his cheek.
Frightened by who the man could be, she turned round and begged with her eyes for help. Some girls waved motions at her. Hurry, the preverbal actions said. Go on! She moved as if to go back, but jumped when Karlie slammed the door closed to stop her approach. Behind her, the man grumbled as he woke from his slight slumber causing Marilis to flinch.
Facing the man, she watched mutely as his eyes flew open and his hand moved over to his sword hilt. She took a step back when she saw the sword and threw frightened glances his way. Regretting her decision to enter the parlor, she whimpered as his wary eyes quickly scanned the room for a threat. His eyes fell upon her and, after completely searching the room, spoke softly, tentatively.
“Hello,” he began.
Startled, Marilis knew not what to do. Throwing caution to the wind, she decided to take a risk. “H-hello,” she said.
“I suppose you’re not the master of this manse, are you?”
“Oh, no! No, I’m not.” Soothed by his gentle speech, she realized she wasn’t as frightened as before. “No, I…I work for the mistress. Se’vir, that is, the master, sent this ahead of him.” She held the cloth before her. However, seeing its crumpled state, she hastily tried to fold it in a respectable condition. She stopped, though, when she noticed he had stood up and was making his way toward her. Her breath caught at the sight his formidable form cut. He reached for the cloth and lightly touched her hand. Marilis blushed and ducked her head.
Outside the parlor, the girls were abuzz with that was happening.
“What’s he saying?”
“I can’t hear!”
“Oh, she’s blushing!”
“My, look at that sword!”
“Look at those muscles!”
“I wonder who he is.”
“What was he doing out in that storm?”
“Hold your tongues!” cried Karlie suddenly. “If you’d all be quiet, we might be able to hear what’s being said.” She poked her head out from behind the wall and strained to hear through the glass doors. The girls stood silent as they tried to see from behind her.
One girl, however, hung back. She had been on her way towards Mistress Malily and Master Se’vir’s sitting room with a tray of tea when she heard the commotion outside the parlor. Curious, she risked a rebuke from the mistress to chance a glimpse of the Brave Visitor, as the doorman had called him. Her first thought, influenced by the horde of girls outside the room, was that it was just another young man on his way toward the Lake caught in the storm. However, with one glance at the visitor, she turned away sharply, almost spilling the tea upon the hand-woven rug beneath her feet.
Her eyes, wide in shock, darted about under furrowed brows. Turning around tentatively, she decided she’d go for another peek. Her gentle, cerulean eyes darted from Marilis to the man. Shaking her head, she backed away, tray trembling in her hands.
“Ellise!” came a voice down the hall.
The girl turned, too quickly, and the tea spilled.
“Ellise!” the voice said again. Bending down to pick up the overturned tea kettle and cups, Ellise could feel the stares of the other girls upon her as they scattered at the sight of Master Se’vir and Mistress Malily. She mentally chided herself for being so clumsy and awkward.
“Ellise, are you alright?” Mistress Malily’s form knelt and began to gather the other dishware scattered along the floor.
“No, milady, please. Let me pick them up.” Ellise reached for the other cups. “It’s my fault.”
Mistress Malily clicked her tongue. “Nonsense, child. I shall help.”
When the task was done, Mistress Malily called one of the maids to fetch cloths to clean the spill. She turned toward Ellise and, taking the tray from her, said, “Are you alright, dear?” Her face, though elderly, bespoke of kindness and concern as abundant as when she was young. Ellise swiftly nodded, avoiding Mistress Malily’s gaze. “I was wondering why you were late with the tea. Caught a look at our visitor, have you?”
Ellise nodded again, mute.
“The other girls have told me he’s a fine-looking man,” she continued. “Are you sure you’re alright, child? You don’t startle easily like the others.” Mistress Malily placed a hand to the girl’s forehead. “Nothing’s wrong with your body, I assume. So it must be your head, no?”
Lifting her head, Ellise looked into Mistress Malily’s eyes. The mistress had a knack for knowing such things, and Ellise began to feel defeated.
Taking her silence as an answer, Mistress Malily stated, “Go to your room, dear. Take it easy tomorrow, and we’ll see how you feel then.” After sending Ellise off with a smile, Mistress Malily placed the tray on a nearby stand and ambled toward the parlor.
o.o.o.o.o
After weaving through the dispersing crowd of frantic female servants, Master Se’vir proceeded to the door just as Marilis was leaving. Marilis, upon seeing the master, gasped and ducked her head as she scurried by. Master Se’vir chuckled and wondered if some sort of “punishment” was in order. One had to let it be known who the master was, of course.
Opening the door, Master Se’vir caught a fine view of his visitor. Seizing him up in one glance, the master deduced the man had been through much for his clothes to be as worn as they were. His hair was in a tangle heap upon his head, his boots were in need of repair, and his gloves were nearly shredded through. The scar on his face glowed in the light and his sword, finely decorated with a jewel pommel and engraved sheath, gleamed. Master Se’vir raised his brows at the sword. To enter a stranger’s home armed? Even in a storm, it was somewhat threatening. But the look of defeat on the young man’s face gave away his humility and honesty. He had no reputation to keep, and his weary stance said enough.
Walking towards the man, Master Se’vir spread out his arms and said, “Welcome to Silvaen Manse. I assume you’ve had a tiring day, and trust you’ve had a pleasant experience while at my home before my appearance.”
“Yes,” answered the man. “Actually, I was dozing lightly before one of the servant girls entered. Oh, thank you for the cloth.” Master Se’vir, confused, noted the wet cloth in the man’s hand and couldn’t help but smile. Ah, girls these days and the things they do for attention. “She explained some about this manse,” he continued. “I didn’t catch her name.” His speech, however unrefined, was cordial and open.
“Marilis, the girl who left when I arrived,” Master Se’vir explained. “Sweet girl, one of my wife’s handmaidens. Ah, forgive me! I’ve yet to introduce myself! I am Se’vir of Silvaen Manse. Silvaen Manse has been my home for as long as I can remember. I was born and raised here, until my young blood demanded action of me.” He wondered if he was curious or foolish enough to plunge ahead. “Much like you, perhaps?”
The man hesitated. “No,” he answered. “Not necessarily. But I’ve seen my share of action, and I’ve had enough.” His voice, deep with bitter experience, carried through the room as if with a weight upon it. Then the visitor said in a slightly lighter voice, “I am Link. I’ve been traveling for the past week to get to Hyrule Castle and would’ve made my destination had it not been for this storm.” He waved his arm in the general direction of the window in vexation.
Link’s curt reply left much to be desired, but Master Se’vir knew the limits of men. “Traveling hard by the looks of it. Have you a few days to spare with us? I really do hate when my visitors are gone without even the slightest by-your-leave. But I digress! You must be exhausted. Please allow me-”
“-to introduce myself,” interrupted a voice from the doorway. Master Se’vir turned around in surprise, and Link spotted the newcomer. She was tall and lean and moved gracefully for one of her years. Her eye held a twinkle as she bowed and said, “Welcome! I am Malily, mistress of Silvaen Manse. I believe you have disrupted the internal structure of my home with the distraction of my servant girls.”
Master Se’vir bellowed a jolly laugh at Link’s perplexed disposition. “Come now, dearest,” he said as he slipped a hand around her waist, “it is not our guest Link’s fault. The girls will receive ample punishment for leaving their posts and having chores undone.”
“Extra work, I presume?” prompted the mistress. “You are far too compassionate. With our guest on their minds, they’ll waltz through any work you dish out to them,” she jested. They headed for the door, and Mistress Malily turned to face Link. “I’ve had Karlie prepare a room for you. Come and we shall show you the way.”
Link followed silently as he walked after the master and mistress. As his navy eyes roamed across the manse’s elaborate décor, the feeling of weariness became stronger despite his growing apprehension. All he could think of was the feel of a real bed beneath his body instead of the cold, hard ground infused with hundred-year-old tree roots and rocks.
o.o.o.o.o
The rain continued through the night.
Ellise wasn’t surprised. Hyrule was subject to frequent weather changes, some as bizarre as a warm autumn that morphed into a freezing winter. Upon the windowsill, Ellise’s legs were tucked underneath her, hands gracefully lying upon her lap. A sudden volley of rainwater flew at the window, startling her.
She lifted a hand to her face, fully expecting to feel moisture beneath her fingers, but all was dry. She paused at her ridiculous action. Her thoughts were asunder, her resolve was distorted, her perception unclear. It was his appearance, she knew. To lay eyes upon him after so long-it was a nightmare and a delight all at once. Should she not be giddy? Exuberant in the return of a hero?
Her unanswered pleas staggered through her mind as the other girls returned from their chores. A few walked down the hall, making a ruckus as they passed. The rest followed shortly, adding more noise to the growing din. Ellise was thankful; her mind was at peace for now.
Scip was the first to enter the room. She burst through the door like sunlight on a frozen day, looking like the sun herself with her golden-brown tresses and yellow dress. The words of her voice carried over into Ellise’s frozen thoughts.
“Oh, to see him again!” she cried as she flopped down on her bed, the back of her hand resting upon her forehead for added effect.
“Please, Scip, he’s nothing special.” Laurel entered and dropped a load of clothes beside her bed nearest the door. “I’ve seen him a million times. Every knight from the castle looks like him in some way, those blonde-haired, blue-eyed replicas of each other.”
Scip jumped off her bed and ran towards Laurel. “Oh, poor Laurel! How she doesn’t understand the meaning of love!”
Laurel pulled a face as Scip grabbed her hands and spun them around.
“Love?” demanded Laurel with a scowl. “Only if you love with your eyes!” She tugged out of the younger girl’s grasp and walked purposefully to her bed. She picked up the comb all four girls in the bedroom shared and began to pull it through her hair, pensive.
“You don’t know anything, Laurel!” Scip retorted. Plopping herself on her bed again, she proceeded to untie the braids of her hair, humming a slight ditty as she worked. “Where is Ellise and Oyume?” she pondered aloud.
Ellise sighed, still sitting on the windowsill. Hearing the sigh, Scip turned and saw her.
“Oh, Elly!” she exclaimed, using the nickname she had given Ellise when she was much younger. “Have you seen him? How I wish I had been Marilis at that blessed moment!”
Another sigh. “Yes, I did see him, unfortunately.”
“Unfortunate, indeed!” cried Scip with another exaggerated love-struck pose on her bed. “Never will he even look at me in these rags! How can he love someone so below his status? Woe is me, for I have found my love whom I cannot love!”
“Oh, Scip, you’re but a child,” said Laurel with disdain, head cocked to one side, eyes slightly narrowed. “So caught up with the imagined picture of love, you’ll miss the actual thing one day.”
“Pish posh!” answered Scip angrily. “I’ll find my true love one day!”
Ellise shook her head and gazed out the window, her right hand rubbing the top of her left.
o.o.o.o.o
The ground was dreadfully wet after the downpour the other day, and some larger pieces of hail had survived the night. The air was nippy and strong winds blew in anticipation of the coming winter, but the sun had chosen to show his face that day. Throwing the curtains apart to let in the glorious sun after the storm, Jhascy felt her smile widen as the light touched her face. Having the strong feeling of contentment, she spun on her heels and headed for the hearth.
Coaxing the embers back into life, the servant girl gazed into the flames that leapt into the air like a pup yearning for a treat held aloft by his master. She threw more wood into the fireplace and cried out as the fire hungrily licked her hand. Jhascy was quick to put her fingers into her mouth for comfort. A sound from behind startled her, and as she twirled around, finally remembered the occupant of the room.
Link groaned as slumber released its hold of him. That bothersome, high-pitched shriek from the corner had broken the thin layer between consciousness and most desired sleep. He rolled over and with his pillow pulled over his head, willed himself back to sleep.
“Well, now!” exclaimed Jhascy. “It’s almost time for breakfast. We’ve already allowed you an extra hour for sleep.” She bustled about the room, tidying up small messes and placing Link’s discarded outerwear on the dresser. “Be thankful I gave up my extra hour of sleep to finish my morning chores to come a rouse you. Otherwise, you’d have missed breakfast. Marilis had wanted to meet you this morning, but Mistress Malily stated that the younger girls needed their sleep if they were to grow strong and beautiful. A lot of sense, that mistress.”
Noticing her words went unheeded, Jhascy angrily placed her hands upon her hips and viewed the man who was now fast asleep. “Seems you’ve had a rough time of late. Fine, sleep in, but Mistress Malily will keep note of your absence at breakfast!” With a last huff, Jhascy threw her hands up in surrender and left the chamber.
Link poked his head out from under the pillow and stared around the room. Relieved the morning annoyance had finally disappeared, he let his head fall back upon the mattress. It was still early, he noted, and concluded that he’d sleep in for a while longer. After all, he did have a tiring journey ahead of him.
Perhaps the best course of action would’ve been to set out early, but muddled thoughts and a wary heart had stilled his restless yearnings. Maybe he did have a few days to stay at the manse; a few days to relish in the peacefulness of the countryside and bask in the glory of idleness.
o.o.o.o.o
It was almost midmorning when Link woke. He cranked open an eye and winced at the steady stream of light that fell on his face. He reached over the side of the bed for his sword and groped about, feeling nothing. A wave of anxiety flew over him as his head popped up, searching frantically for his sword. His fruitless search drove him to roam about the room, throwing up the bed sheets and curtains and moving furniture until he spotted his prize, resting neatly propped up against the fireplace. He sighed in agitated relief; quickly pulling on the clothes that annoying girl had left, he came to the conclusion he had best leave his sword in the room, lest he give the wrong impression.
Down the winding staircase he went, searching for a living soul. Master Se’vir must’ve employed nearly five dozen people to mind the mansion, yet he saw no one as he approached the ground level. That floor too was empty, and he wandered throughout the hallways, wondering why none of the servants were working. As he reached the end of a corridor, the stillness that reigned in manse was broken by the slightest noise.
It was a laugh he heard, and then someone speaking. More voices joined in the conversation, creating a force of resonance that pushed at the silence. Curious, Link hurried forward, the growing din of noise leading him further. He came to the end of the hallway and entered into what appeared to be the anteroom of the dining room. Inside, the missing crowd of servants stood about a young couple, surrounding them with mirth and giving congratulations. Others meandered between the anteroom and dinning room, from which wafted a divine aroma that spoke of an exquisite meal.
Someone squealed and ran up to Link, pulling on his arm, and leading him onward. He looked down and realized it was Marilis, her light brown, curly pigtails bouncing in delight. As she dragged him through the assembly, Link wondered how they became so close in such a short period of time.
“This is Link,” said Marilis to the spotlighted couple when they were within hearing distance, “our newest visitor. I was the first to greet him yesterday.”
Somewhat embarrassed, Link nodded to the couple just turning their heads, “Hello.”
The man nodded, the lady smiled. “Welcome,” he said. “I’m Iuvis, a stableman. And this is my wife, Pearl.”
Link nodded to Pearl, who looked in complete bliss at that moment. She snuggled closer to her husband and beamed.
“Ah!” interrupted a voice. “I see you’ve finally woken! Had a magnificent slumber, did you?” Master Se’vir joked as he trotted their way and joined their circle. “You’ve met our superb stableman, I presume?”
“Just now,” came Link’s reply.
“Wonderful!” Master Se’vir clapped his hands. “We’re having a celebration for their newest announcement.” Waving a hand at them, he continued, “As of today, Iuvis and his lovely wife are expecting their firstborn.”
“Isn’t that exciting?” Marilis asked, eyes sparkling.
“Yes, of course!” he said. To them he said, “Congratulations.”
Iuvis was about to reply when a boy came up to him. Hearing the boy speak, Iuvis nodded and said, “Apparently, one of the horses needs tending to. Pearl, enjoy the rest of the party. I’ll be back.” He kissed her on the cheek and began to walk away. But first, “Thank you, Link! I hope you enjoy your stay at Silvaen Manse!” and he was gone.
“Link,” said the master, “have you eaten?”
The swordsman was about to reply when Marilis broke in, “You haven’t, have you? Master Se’vir, please allow me to show Link to the dinning room! Oh, Link, there’s a beautiful feast in honor of Pearl and Iuvis!”
Master Se’vir turned, raising his eyebrows when he noticed Marilis’ hold on Link’s arm. “What say you, Link?”
“Uh, that’ll be fine.” The words were barely out of his mouth before Marilis began dragging him through the crowd towards a door.
“This way!” she said and pushed him through. Link heard Master Se’vir’s laugh from afar and flushed.
Series: Legend of Zelda
Chapters: 1/2
Pairing: Link x Zelda
Genre: General/Romance
Word Count: 4,500
Rating: K+
Summary: "I was never the same after I met twilight."
"Neither was I, but I never left."
AN: Forgive my absence. Any of you readers following Trifold will be gold to know it will soon be revised/updated once I get this story finished off; it's been in my e-mail for two years and I've always wanted to finish it and finally found the time to do so. It was originally a one-shot, but became too long for one chapter. Chapter two is in the works and will be out sometime tomorrow. In the meantime, check out Trifold in my journal if you haven't already! Thanks for reading!
Discovery
Being located between the royal city and the Lake Hylia, the old Silvaen manse wasn’t without its share of world-weary travelers and the occasional merchant. Through the years, old man Se’vir (who used to be a knight of sorts before he counted his battle wounds and decided life was too precious to spend in such a way) learned to never turn down any wanderer who appeared at his manse. After all, when certain visitors were sent one’s way, who was to say that there wasn’t a purpose behind the encounter? He had met his wife that way.
The skies had cried the whole day through; the lake, quite a ways from the manse, would be swollen, and it’d take the entire coming week to see it back at its regular level. The servants watched as the winds buffeted the leaves off their posts on the branches, and a certain serving girl in the kitchens gazed in horror as the azaleas the gardener’s apprentice had planted for her gave way to the fierce hailstorm just reaching its zenith.
The clouds, inflamed with water, thundered overhead as the sun hid its face from the coming onslaught. The evening came fresh and cold as the early winter pushed through the drowsiness of fall. The stableman, prone to falling under the weather, exasperatingly grunted as his wife fussed over the three consecutive sneezes he had given her upon entering their quarters.
And all Se’vir had to say when his wife Malily commented on the storm was, “We shall receive a visitor tonight,” accompanied by a gracious smile.
Soon enough, a man appeared at the manse gate shortly after the evening meal ended, and the gatekeeper, wringing his hands and fussing over the manse’s newest guest, hurried him through and into the mansion, quite shocked to see anyone in that storm. The doorman, also shocked at the prospect of adventuring that storm, exclaimed his bravery as he pushed the fatigued visitor toward the parlor. Thrusting him onto a sofa, dripping wet clothes and all, the doorman rushed to alert the master, taking note of the sword that hung at the visitor’s side.
The visitor stared about the room, dazed from all the hurrying and thrusting and embarrassed for having ruined the sofa with his drenched garments. He tugged his gloved hand through his tussled blonde hair and closed his eyes for the moment, wondering if he dared lean against the back of the sofa in his state. He dared, and was rendered vulnerable to the stares of the mistress’ handmaidens and the kitchen girls who peeked through the parlor’s glass doors. Like children yearning for a piece of freshly baked pie, more girls gathered around the doors to catch a glimpse of the manse’s caller.
The master wouldn’t be down from his chambers anytime soon, they reasoned, and goaded one young girl into entering the parlor.
“What shall I say to him?” Marilis, the girl chosen, pleaded bashfully when they pushed her forward.
“Here,” called one of the more brazen cleaning girls and pressed a small cloth into Marilis’ hand. “Tell him the master sent it ahead of him.”
“You want me to lie, Karlie?” Marilis replied, shocked.
Karlie pushed her way through the throng of dazzled females. “Fine. I’ll do it if you’re too frightened of the visitor. He’s more around my age anyway.” She reached for the cloth, but was stopped when Marilis pulled back.
“No, no. I’ll do it.” She took a shaky breath to settle herself and approached the door. Peering through, she could see the visitor had shifted his position on the sofa. His body was slanted, bangs gracefully falling over his face. He was young, much younger than she had originally thought. Why was he traversing Hyrule during such a storm? she wondered as her eyes traced over his tattered tunic and worn boots.
Hand on the doorknob, Marilis couldn’t back down. Every eye was on her back as she pushed on the door. Hearing the slight creak as it gave way, she opened the door wide enough for her to slip through. The man shifted again, this time giving the young maiden full view of his face. A faint scar traveled the length of his cheek.
Frightened by who the man could be, she turned round and begged with her eyes for help. Some girls waved motions at her. Hurry, the preverbal actions said. Go on! She moved as if to go back, but jumped when Karlie slammed the door closed to stop her approach. Behind her, the man grumbled as he woke from his slight slumber causing Marilis to flinch.
Facing the man, she watched mutely as his eyes flew open and his hand moved over to his sword hilt. She took a step back when she saw the sword and threw frightened glances his way. Regretting her decision to enter the parlor, she whimpered as his wary eyes quickly scanned the room for a threat. His eyes fell upon her and, after completely searching the room, spoke softly, tentatively.
“Hello,” he began.
Startled, Marilis knew not what to do. Throwing caution to the wind, she decided to take a risk. “H-hello,” she said.
“I suppose you’re not the master of this manse, are you?”
“Oh, no! No, I’m not.” Soothed by his gentle speech, she realized she wasn’t as frightened as before. “No, I…I work for the mistress. Se’vir, that is, the master, sent this ahead of him.” She held the cloth before her. However, seeing its crumpled state, she hastily tried to fold it in a respectable condition. She stopped, though, when she noticed he had stood up and was making his way toward her. Her breath caught at the sight his formidable form cut. He reached for the cloth and lightly touched her hand. Marilis blushed and ducked her head.
Outside the parlor, the girls were abuzz with that was happening.
“What’s he saying?”
“I can’t hear!”
“Oh, she’s blushing!”
“My, look at that sword!”
“Look at those muscles!”
“I wonder who he is.”
“What was he doing out in that storm?”
“Hold your tongues!” cried Karlie suddenly. “If you’d all be quiet, we might be able to hear what’s being said.” She poked her head out from behind the wall and strained to hear through the glass doors. The girls stood silent as they tried to see from behind her.
One girl, however, hung back. She had been on her way towards Mistress Malily and Master Se’vir’s sitting room with a tray of tea when she heard the commotion outside the parlor. Curious, she risked a rebuke from the mistress to chance a glimpse of the Brave Visitor, as the doorman had called him. Her first thought, influenced by the horde of girls outside the room, was that it was just another young man on his way toward the Lake caught in the storm. However, with one glance at the visitor, she turned away sharply, almost spilling the tea upon the hand-woven rug beneath her feet.
Her eyes, wide in shock, darted about under furrowed brows. Turning around tentatively, she decided she’d go for another peek. Her gentle, cerulean eyes darted from Marilis to the man. Shaking her head, she backed away, tray trembling in her hands.
“Ellise!” came a voice down the hall.
The girl turned, too quickly, and the tea spilled.
“Ellise!” the voice said again. Bending down to pick up the overturned tea kettle and cups, Ellise could feel the stares of the other girls upon her as they scattered at the sight of Master Se’vir and Mistress Malily. She mentally chided herself for being so clumsy and awkward.
“Ellise, are you alright?” Mistress Malily’s form knelt and began to gather the other dishware scattered along the floor.
“No, milady, please. Let me pick them up.” Ellise reached for the other cups. “It’s my fault.”
Mistress Malily clicked her tongue. “Nonsense, child. I shall help.”
When the task was done, Mistress Malily called one of the maids to fetch cloths to clean the spill. She turned toward Ellise and, taking the tray from her, said, “Are you alright, dear?” Her face, though elderly, bespoke of kindness and concern as abundant as when she was young. Ellise swiftly nodded, avoiding Mistress Malily’s gaze. “I was wondering why you were late with the tea. Caught a look at our visitor, have you?”
Ellise nodded again, mute.
“The other girls have told me he’s a fine-looking man,” she continued. “Are you sure you’re alright, child? You don’t startle easily like the others.” Mistress Malily placed a hand to the girl’s forehead. “Nothing’s wrong with your body, I assume. So it must be your head, no?”
Lifting her head, Ellise looked into Mistress Malily’s eyes. The mistress had a knack for knowing such things, and Ellise began to feel defeated.
Taking her silence as an answer, Mistress Malily stated, “Go to your room, dear. Take it easy tomorrow, and we’ll see how you feel then.” After sending Ellise off with a smile, Mistress Malily placed the tray on a nearby stand and ambled toward the parlor.
o.o.o.o.o
After weaving through the dispersing crowd of frantic female servants, Master Se’vir proceeded to the door just as Marilis was leaving. Marilis, upon seeing the master, gasped and ducked her head as she scurried by. Master Se’vir chuckled and wondered if some sort of “punishment” was in order. One had to let it be known who the master was, of course.
Opening the door, Master Se’vir caught a fine view of his visitor. Seizing him up in one glance, the master deduced the man had been through much for his clothes to be as worn as they were. His hair was in a tangle heap upon his head, his boots were in need of repair, and his gloves were nearly shredded through. The scar on his face glowed in the light and his sword, finely decorated with a jewel pommel and engraved sheath, gleamed. Master Se’vir raised his brows at the sword. To enter a stranger’s home armed? Even in a storm, it was somewhat threatening. But the look of defeat on the young man’s face gave away his humility and honesty. He had no reputation to keep, and his weary stance said enough.
Walking towards the man, Master Se’vir spread out his arms and said, “Welcome to Silvaen Manse. I assume you’ve had a tiring day, and trust you’ve had a pleasant experience while at my home before my appearance.”
“Yes,” answered the man. “Actually, I was dozing lightly before one of the servant girls entered. Oh, thank you for the cloth.” Master Se’vir, confused, noted the wet cloth in the man’s hand and couldn’t help but smile. Ah, girls these days and the things they do for attention. “She explained some about this manse,” he continued. “I didn’t catch her name.” His speech, however unrefined, was cordial and open.
“Marilis, the girl who left when I arrived,” Master Se’vir explained. “Sweet girl, one of my wife’s handmaidens. Ah, forgive me! I’ve yet to introduce myself! I am Se’vir of Silvaen Manse. Silvaen Manse has been my home for as long as I can remember. I was born and raised here, until my young blood demanded action of me.” He wondered if he was curious or foolish enough to plunge ahead. “Much like you, perhaps?”
The man hesitated. “No,” he answered. “Not necessarily. But I’ve seen my share of action, and I’ve had enough.” His voice, deep with bitter experience, carried through the room as if with a weight upon it. Then the visitor said in a slightly lighter voice, “I am Link. I’ve been traveling for the past week to get to Hyrule Castle and would’ve made my destination had it not been for this storm.” He waved his arm in the general direction of the window in vexation.
Link’s curt reply left much to be desired, but Master Se’vir knew the limits of men. “Traveling hard by the looks of it. Have you a few days to spare with us? I really do hate when my visitors are gone without even the slightest by-your-leave. But I digress! You must be exhausted. Please allow me-”
“-to introduce myself,” interrupted a voice from the doorway. Master Se’vir turned around in surprise, and Link spotted the newcomer. She was tall and lean and moved gracefully for one of her years. Her eye held a twinkle as she bowed and said, “Welcome! I am Malily, mistress of Silvaen Manse. I believe you have disrupted the internal structure of my home with the distraction of my servant girls.”
Master Se’vir bellowed a jolly laugh at Link’s perplexed disposition. “Come now, dearest,” he said as he slipped a hand around her waist, “it is not our guest Link’s fault. The girls will receive ample punishment for leaving their posts and having chores undone.”
“Extra work, I presume?” prompted the mistress. “You are far too compassionate. With our guest on their minds, they’ll waltz through any work you dish out to them,” she jested. They headed for the door, and Mistress Malily turned to face Link. “I’ve had Karlie prepare a room for you. Come and we shall show you the way.”
Link followed silently as he walked after the master and mistress. As his navy eyes roamed across the manse’s elaborate décor, the feeling of weariness became stronger despite his growing apprehension. All he could think of was the feel of a real bed beneath his body instead of the cold, hard ground infused with hundred-year-old tree roots and rocks.
o.o.o.o.o
The rain continued through the night.
Ellise wasn’t surprised. Hyrule was subject to frequent weather changes, some as bizarre as a warm autumn that morphed into a freezing winter. Upon the windowsill, Ellise’s legs were tucked underneath her, hands gracefully lying upon her lap. A sudden volley of rainwater flew at the window, startling her.
She lifted a hand to her face, fully expecting to feel moisture beneath her fingers, but all was dry. She paused at her ridiculous action. Her thoughts were asunder, her resolve was distorted, her perception unclear. It was his appearance, she knew. To lay eyes upon him after so long-it was a nightmare and a delight all at once. Should she not be giddy? Exuberant in the return of a hero?
Her unanswered pleas staggered through her mind as the other girls returned from their chores. A few walked down the hall, making a ruckus as they passed. The rest followed shortly, adding more noise to the growing din. Ellise was thankful; her mind was at peace for now.
Scip was the first to enter the room. She burst through the door like sunlight on a frozen day, looking like the sun herself with her golden-brown tresses and yellow dress. The words of her voice carried over into Ellise’s frozen thoughts.
“Oh, to see him again!” she cried as she flopped down on her bed, the back of her hand resting upon her forehead for added effect.
“Please, Scip, he’s nothing special.” Laurel entered and dropped a load of clothes beside her bed nearest the door. “I’ve seen him a million times. Every knight from the castle looks like him in some way, those blonde-haired, blue-eyed replicas of each other.”
Scip jumped off her bed and ran towards Laurel. “Oh, poor Laurel! How she doesn’t understand the meaning of love!”
Laurel pulled a face as Scip grabbed her hands and spun them around.
“Love?” demanded Laurel with a scowl. “Only if you love with your eyes!” She tugged out of the younger girl’s grasp and walked purposefully to her bed. She picked up the comb all four girls in the bedroom shared and began to pull it through her hair, pensive.
“You don’t know anything, Laurel!” Scip retorted. Plopping herself on her bed again, she proceeded to untie the braids of her hair, humming a slight ditty as she worked. “Where is Ellise and Oyume?” she pondered aloud.
Ellise sighed, still sitting on the windowsill. Hearing the sigh, Scip turned and saw her.
“Oh, Elly!” she exclaimed, using the nickname she had given Ellise when she was much younger. “Have you seen him? How I wish I had been Marilis at that blessed moment!”
Another sigh. “Yes, I did see him, unfortunately.”
“Unfortunate, indeed!” cried Scip with another exaggerated love-struck pose on her bed. “Never will he even look at me in these rags! How can he love someone so below his status? Woe is me, for I have found my love whom I cannot love!”
“Oh, Scip, you’re but a child,” said Laurel with disdain, head cocked to one side, eyes slightly narrowed. “So caught up with the imagined picture of love, you’ll miss the actual thing one day.”
“Pish posh!” answered Scip angrily. “I’ll find my true love one day!”
Ellise shook her head and gazed out the window, her right hand rubbing the top of her left.
o.o.o.o.o
The ground was dreadfully wet after the downpour the other day, and some larger pieces of hail had survived the night. The air was nippy and strong winds blew in anticipation of the coming winter, but the sun had chosen to show his face that day. Throwing the curtains apart to let in the glorious sun after the storm, Jhascy felt her smile widen as the light touched her face. Having the strong feeling of contentment, she spun on her heels and headed for the hearth.
Coaxing the embers back into life, the servant girl gazed into the flames that leapt into the air like a pup yearning for a treat held aloft by his master. She threw more wood into the fireplace and cried out as the fire hungrily licked her hand. Jhascy was quick to put her fingers into her mouth for comfort. A sound from behind startled her, and as she twirled around, finally remembered the occupant of the room.
Link groaned as slumber released its hold of him. That bothersome, high-pitched shriek from the corner had broken the thin layer between consciousness and most desired sleep. He rolled over and with his pillow pulled over his head, willed himself back to sleep.
“Well, now!” exclaimed Jhascy. “It’s almost time for breakfast. We’ve already allowed you an extra hour for sleep.” She bustled about the room, tidying up small messes and placing Link’s discarded outerwear on the dresser. “Be thankful I gave up my extra hour of sleep to finish my morning chores to come a rouse you. Otherwise, you’d have missed breakfast. Marilis had wanted to meet you this morning, but Mistress Malily stated that the younger girls needed their sleep if they were to grow strong and beautiful. A lot of sense, that mistress.”
Noticing her words went unheeded, Jhascy angrily placed her hands upon her hips and viewed the man who was now fast asleep. “Seems you’ve had a rough time of late. Fine, sleep in, but Mistress Malily will keep note of your absence at breakfast!” With a last huff, Jhascy threw her hands up in surrender and left the chamber.
Link poked his head out from under the pillow and stared around the room. Relieved the morning annoyance had finally disappeared, he let his head fall back upon the mattress. It was still early, he noted, and concluded that he’d sleep in for a while longer. After all, he did have a tiring journey ahead of him.
Perhaps the best course of action would’ve been to set out early, but muddled thoughts and a wary heart had stilled his restless yearnings. Maybe he did have a few days to stay at the manse; a few days to relish in the peacefulness of the countryside and bask in the glory of idleness.
o.o.o.o.o
It was almost midmorning when Link woke. He cranked open an eye and winced at the steady stream of light that fell on his face. He reached over the side of the bed for his sword and groped about, feeling nothing. A wave of anxiety flew over him as his head popped up, searching frantically for his sword. His fruitless search drove him to roam about the room, throwing up the bed sheets and curtains and moving furniture until he spotted his prize, resting neatly propped up against the fireplace. He sighed in agitated relief; quickly pulling on the clothes that annoying girl had left, he came to the conclusion he had best leave his sword in the room, lest he give the wrong impression.
Down the winding staircase he went, searching for a living soul. Master Se’vir must’ve employed nearly five dozen people to mind the mansion, yet he saw no one as he approached the ground level. That floor too was empty, and he wandered throughout the hallways, wondering why none of the servants were working. As he reached the end of a corridor, the stillness that reigned in manse was broken by the slightest noise.
It was a laugh he heard, and then someone speaking. More voices joined in the conversation, creating a force of resonance that pushed at the silence. Curious, Link hurried forward, the growing din of noise leading him further. He came to the end of the hallway and entered into what appeared to be the anteroom of the dining room. Inside, the missing crowd of servants stood about a young couple, surrounding them with mirth and giving congratulations. Others meandered between the anteroom and dinning room, from which wafted a divine aroma that spoke of an exquisite meal.
Someone squealed and ran up to Link, pulling on his arm, and leading him onward. He looked down and realized it was Marilis, her light brown, curly pigtails bouncing in delight. As she dragged him through the assembly, Link wondered how they became so close in such a short period of time.
“This is Link,” said Marilis to the spotlighted couple when they were within hearing distance, “our newest visitor. I was the first to greet him yesterday.”
Somewhat embarrassed, Link nodded to the couple just turning their heads, “Hello.”
The man nodded, the lady smiled. “Welcome,” he said. “I’m Iuvis, a stableman. And this is my wife, Pearl.”
Link nodded to Pearl, who looked in complete bliss at that moment. She snuggled closer to her husband and beamed.
“Ah!” interrupted a voice. “I see you’ve finally woken! Had a magnificent slumber, did you?” Master Se’vir joked as he trotted their way and joined their circle. “You’ve met our superb stableman, I presume?”
“Just now,” came Link’s reply.
“Wonderful!” Master Se’vir clapped his hands. “We’re having a celebration for their newest announcement.” Waving a hand at them, he continued, “As of today, Iuvis and his lovely wife are expecting their firstborn.”
“Isn’t that exciting?” Marilis asked, eyes sparkling.
“Yes, of course!” he said. To them he said, “Congratulations.”
Iuvis was about to reply when a boy came up to him. Hearing the boy speak, Iuvis nodded and said, “Apparently, one of the horses needs tending to. Pearl, enjoy the rest of the party. I’ll be back.” He kissed her on the cheek and began to walk away. But first, “Thank you, Link! I hope you enjoy your stay at Silvaen Manse!” and he was gone.
“Link,” said the master, “have you eaten?”
The swordsman was about to reply when Marilis broke in, “You haven’t, have you? Master Se’vir, please allow me to show Link to the dinning room! Oh, Link, there’s a beautiful feast in honor of Pearl and Iuvis!”
Master Se’vir turned, raising his eyebrows when he noticed Marilis’ hold on Link’s arm. “What say you, Link?”
“Uh, that’ll be fine.” The words were barely out of his mouth before Marilis began dragging him through the crowd towards a door.
“This way!” she said and pushed him through. Link heard Master Se’vir’s laugh from afar and flushed.