Inspiration: Terry McMillan and Audiomachine "Tree of Life" album (for 2020 reedit).

Special Note: The art for the picture is done by Jinny Liang.

Author Note: This story does not stringently follow canon, and there are made up histories and stories in the text. The contents take place after the events in Twilight Princess. I do not own the Legend of Zelda. It is owned by Nintendo EAD of Japan. This is the reedit from the original story back in May 2012 and September 7th 2015.

Reupload date: 3/4/2020. Reedited 3/19/2020.

Word Count 8,645

How Zelda Got Her Groove Back

Chapter 1

Hyrule is the greatest country in the world. Hyrule is the greatest country in the world not because the people within it were men and women of war, but because the men and women were resilient. Hyrule is resilient. There is an echo here. Ther heartbeat here. There is a history here. And that history did not ascribe to one unilateral voice alone. There were a million voices with a million tales. The history books couldn't scribe such obfuscation, but I could tell one, my history. My history was my chronology. However, since I am queen, that meant my chronology was partly the people's chronology as well. What did that mean?

It was quite simple actually. The life I lived was not mine alone. I am a public servant. I lived for the people. So, what goes on in my life was known throughout the kingdom. This was quite evident when a particular set of events from five years ago still tested that notion. At the time, I was forewarned by my counselors to be more pragmatic. To be duplicitous. Truthfully, I thought I was. I thought I was the model for duplicity. I was known as a serious and sound ruler. I had no qualms with that. Unfortunately, because of a certain set of actions I took part in, my past has invariably been intertwined with the present. There wasn't a decision I could make that would not have a reminder of it in some way. It no doubt led me to my irrevocable belief in interchangeability. I believed that the past was constantly connected with the present, whether that was in the decision making models on my end, or the belief I felt existed in the people's minds. My advisors informed me it was impossible to govern in such a fashion. I disagreed. I believed it was possible. In fact my life was that possibility. I am reminded when the whispers of a random stranger comes to my ear.

They remember.

They know.

And once again, I am proven right.

Will the reckoning from my fore actions ever cease? I wondered.

I took in a deep sigh.

That was a question for the philosophers. It seemed I was daydreaming again. Presently, I was involved in the most mundane of activities. I was in court taking audiences with my people. It was the duty of every monarch to listen to the concerns of their people. In my case, I took a little more fortitude with the action, but today was more taxing. It could have been the mental fatigue I was experiencing. However, to quite honest I thought it was something else. Something more disquieting. Anyway, today in particular was an eventful day because all the provinces were sending out representatives to give gifts to royal family. It was a tradition that dated back two hundred years. It was actually in homage to the role the people played in fighting the Great War. The gifts were usually handcrafted sundries, or an heirloom of some significance to the region. These items were presented, blessed, then bestowed unto the royal family. It was a way for the people to constitute their loyalty to Hyrule. Though, I couldn't say loyalty was the purveying sentiment as of late.

This hearkens back to my theory of interchangeability. The discourse wasn't outright, but there was a lingering animosity towards me from my people. I could not say it was not warranted. Anyone could justify what was right in their eyes. I have done that myself. However, there were some issues the people simply did not understand. To give a brief context, the offenses laid against me had to do with my past dealings with a certain hero. Dealings that were exceedingly complicated. From the outside looking in it appeared one way, but there was another side. There was another set of circumstances. Unfortunately, however, it was a side the people were unwilling to hear. There was too much of a negative stigma behind it. It was just as well. The people had a right to love their hero.

Even so, it was hard to ignore the constant barrage of subtle quips aimed at my character. There were times when I saw the open disdain from my people. There was no hiding it. I walked about the halls with my head held high, but I heard the whispers. Whispers like: "You know what you've done," or "You were wrong your majesty," or "You'll never convince us that your actions were justified." There were times when I wanted to stop and plead with the people. I wanted to tell them my side of the story. But, I didn't. I knew it was futile. I wasn't immune to the scathing talk, but I couldn't let it overtake me either. I wasn't perfect, but I was still their queen. The jury unfortunately on public opinion was out and I was guilty. This type of sentiment could be potentially dangerous, but that was why it was my duty to understand the needs of my people. It was about balance. Everything was about balance.

I took in another deep sigh as I thought.

If they only knew what it was really like, I thought, if they only knew.

Anyway, a few moments later, my courtier approached, bowed, and announced the next guest. He cleared his voice of roughage before he spoke.

"Your majesty," he began, "the representative from Ordon Village is here requesting an audience with you."

I raised my eyebrows slightly and felt my ears perk at hearing that. I even sat a little more upright on my throne. I folded my hands across my lap in reaction to it.

The representative of Ordon Village... Ordon... I pondered, what a place of personal significance to me.

Though I had never been there personally, I knew some of the residents who lived there, including a certain reclusive hero who no longer showed his face here at the castle. It was primarily a farming community, but the little village was making strides in areas of commerce and trade. The pumpkin goods sold from there were now essential staples in many of the shops in Castle Town. I didn't realize there were so many ways to fix a pumpkin. Even so, pumpkin recipes weren't the order of business of the day. I wondered greatly who was going to walk through that door. Was it going to be one of the usual suspects? Or, would it be someone new? I was hoping the latter. It would be nice to see a change, but I didn't want it to show I was anticipating it. I tried to keep my face staid.

"Thank you," I finally spoke up, then ushered him off, "please send the representative in."

The courtier bowed and left my presence momentarily. I couldn't lie, I was feeling a bit of anticipation and a hint of reproach. The anticipation for the aforementioned reasons. The reproach for something else entirely. I wasn't certain this was going to be an amiable visit. In the recent past, maybe about less than a year or so ago, an idea was put forth by the court to use some of the land in southern Hyrule to build a large university. I thought this was an excellent idea, deducing that many of the citizens could get a first class education who lived on limited resources. However, all was not well with the request. The citizens of Ordon Village protested that the sanctity of their forest would be violated if such a 'rush of rabble' came their way. Needless to say, the social upheaval was heard and the request was rescinded. I could have overruled the matter and thought nothing of it. However, the Ordonians had legitimate concerns and there were already enough mounting tensions in my kingdom. I simply let the matter go. It wasn't worth it in the end. I would rather have a land of peaceful ignorants than a land of educated cynics.

Even still, with the representative showing up like this, I couldn't help but feel a little guarded. Was he here to promote peaceful relations? Or, were there more demands? Would this be amiable, or would there be increased tensions?

Let this be a good day, I thought, I long for more good days in Hyrule.

The courtier returned shortly after and my anticipation fell flat. The gentleman to see me was one of the usual suspects. Actually, he was the swordsman known as Rusl. I assumed the messenger would either be him or the big burly gentleman with the funny mustache. I could not recall his name at the moment. Though, the latter hadn't come to give the gift from his village in some time, maybe five years. Perhaps Rusl was the new mayor. Even so, the middle aged soldier bowed and looked me in the eyes with real sincerity. I returned his gaze and recalled the time when Master Rusl worked at the castle as part of Link's task force in the wake of Ganondorf's fall. I commissioned it. It was a special task force to act as a counter insurgency to evil's bane if it were ever to arise again. That was an interesting time for all of us. There were so many memories. However, I was more interested in how Rusl was living his life now. Rusl was a loyal servant to the throne and the last few years had been good to him, considering his well conditioned physique and barely aging face. He was possibly in his early forties now, but he still looked several years younger. He had a natural amiable disposition, which was fortunate considering my earlier discretions.

The results of a happy home life no doubt, I thought admirably.

It was time to get down to business.

"What can I do you for you good sir?" I asked.

Master Rusl bowed again before he spoke.

"Greetings your majesty," he started respectfully. "All is well in Ordon and the citizens are at peace. I was sent here to by my fellow countrymen to offer you the sword of our village. We wanted to bestow it to you as a showing of our faith, allegiance, and gratitude."

I looked at the soldier surprised.

Faith, allegiance, and gratitude? I wondered in slight disbelief. Could it be that I actually made some of the citizens of my kingdom happy?

I smiled after hearing this.

"Your gift is accepted," I said, "thank you for offering it with sincerity."

"The pleasure is mine my lady," he replied.

That was refreshing to hear. Afterwards, I stood up from my throne.

"On behalf of the royal family, I humbly accept your gift and gratefully acknowledge you as an ally," I said. "Please offer the people of Ordon my humblest gratitude."

The swordsman put his fist in his opposing palm and bowed once more.

"I will indeed your majesty," he replied, "and thank you for your kind acknowledgements. May the blessing of the goddess be with you."

I nodded.

"With you as well," I replied.

With that, the Ordonian offered the sword to my courtier, who in turn gave it to the guard of the treasury. When Rusl's attention was back to me I bowed, signaling that it was appropriate for him to depart from me. With the brief audience over, Master Rusl headed out of the council room. I watched after him relieved. Afterwards, I turned my attention to the messenger.

"Are there anymore audiences?" I inquired.

The courtier looked through his parchment scroll.

"No your majesty," he replied, "the Ordon matter was the last one for today."

Content with the news, I took in another deep breath.

"Good," I said, "I shall recess to my chambers then."

The messenger looked at me with slight concern regarding my tone.

"Is there anything I can get you your majesty?" the courtier asked me. "You seem a little under the weather today."

That was unfortunate because I felt fine.

I must be holding a sour expression or something, I thought.

I tried to reassure him with a grin.

"I'm quite alright," I replied softly, "thank you for asking."

With that, I signaled the court for recess and gestured for everyone to be dismissed. I stood when the hall was cleared out. I looked around the commodious room, thinking about the responsibility I had as the country's sole progenitor. I closed my eyes for a moment of solace.

Hylia thank you for giving me strength to get through another long day, I prayed, but felt a little fatigued.

Afterwards, I walked down the steps to my throne and left the hall. I headed down the vaulted marble corridor to my private chambers. As I walked, the guards standing erect bowed their heads, with each saluting me out of respect. I made a point to acknowledge them all. I knew it was their duty, but I appreciated the gesture. The modicum of respect for the crown was not completely lost. However, I did wonder at times if I were forced to do such a duty would I enjoy it. It seemed like such a mechanical gesture, saluting one's queen. Did the guards feel they had to do it? Did they understand the significance of it? Did they even care? My mild grievances stopped me momentarily. Respect was so important to keep a dynasty going. Did the people even respect the Nohanseen name anymore? Suddenly, I stared at the last guard closest to the entrance of my quarters. I decided the only way I was going to know the answers to any of my questions was if I asked it.

Perhaps a self evaluation is in order, I thought.

I hadn't realized my gaze. The guard, who I was unintentionally staring at, looked down at me nervously.

"Is there anything I can assist you with your majesty?" he asked me.

I didn't answer right away.

Your majesty… I thought, there is so much weight to that title.

I then shook my head of my thoughts and apologized.

"I'm sorry," I said, then reneged on what I was originally planning to do, "I didn't mean to stare, and no there's nothing I need at the moment."

The guard bowed again and I bowed in return. Afterwards, I continued down the corridor to my residence, but then as I got closer to my door I stopped myself again. I stared down at the marble floor for a moment. How would I ever know what was going on in the people's minds if I didn't ask? I used to always ask. What stopped me from being so social? What stopped me from speaking to the people? Why have I regressed to idly walking by and assuming things? That wasn't who I was or who I am. What has happened to me over the years? Why have I allowed this to happen to myself? Knowing I was probably going to look foolish for doing so, I turned back around to reengage the same guard I just left. I knew it was silly how I was over complicating this, but if I didn't ask, I would never know. The guard looked at me in slight surprise by my return, and stiffened immediately when I approached him once more. I only wanted to engage in some idle talk.

He looks so uneasy, I thought, I guess I would be too if I were him.

"At ease soldier," I said.

The guard relaxed his stance a little bit, but not much to afford the true brunt of my command.

"Yes my lady," he said.

I gave him a brief once over.

"What is your name good sir?" I asked afterward.

He looked at me surprised.

"My name my lady?" he repeated.

I nodded.

"Yes," I replied.

He glanced at one of his comrades across the way nervously.

"My name is Rembrandt madam," he replied.

I thought it was a decent name.

"Rembrandt," I repeated.

He nodded.

"Yes my lady," he said.

I engaged him further.

"Tell me something Master Rembrandt," I started carefully, "do you… enjoy doing your duty?"

He looked at me puzzled, trying to anticipate where I was going with this conversation. He stared at me with a slight restraint in his eyes. He probably thought he did something wrong.

"Enjoy my duty your majesty?" he repeated.

I looked at him thoughtfully just then.

"Yes good sir," I said, "your duty. I want to know what you honestly think. Please speak freely."

Almost immediately a stressful expression came across his face.

"Uh..." he trailed, then began to sweat at his brow.

I looked at him taken aback just then.

The poor fellow looks like he's going to have a heart attack, I thought, I can't be that hard to talk to.

"Uh," he attempted again, "I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve in the royal guard your majesty."

He said it with strong conviction and I just stared at him, understanding that he felt he had to say these things. Unfortunately, I wasn't going to get a straight answer from him. Even still, I attempted to probe further.

"Yes, I'm sure you do," I replied, "but do you feel that there is anything that needs to be improved upon? Anything at all? I would greatly appreciate the feedback."

The sweat that seeded his brow was now running down his face.

"No ma'am," he said seriously, "I feel the Hylian military is a well tempered sword."

I nearly gave into a frown in front of him, but tempered it instead.

That's what I thought you'd say, I pondered, and I let the matter go. It looks like the honesty I became accustomed to is gone. I pursed my lips together at the allusion of the latter thought. Don't think about that Zelda. Don't think about him Zelda. That man is gone.

I shook my head slightly at my recourse.

"Thank you," I said, not wanting to stress him anymore, "as you once were."

The guard went from his 'relaxed' stance to the position he was in before. I bowed again and headed back to my chambers. When I got inside my room, I held onto the knob of the door for a moment.

"I wish every answer could be that simple," I whispered, then went over to my dresser and sat down.

Before I undressed and readied myself for bed, I took a long look at the woman staring back at me.

"Who are you?" I whispered of my reflection. "Who are you really?"

It was a set of questions worth contemplating.

My name is Zelda, and I am the queen designate of Hyrule. However, sometimes I feel more like the ruler of a harem. As with any job of public service, there was a measurable amount of politics in what I did. Person X wanted something from Person Y. So and So A had an issue with So and So B. Zoras Domain wanted an expansion into the Eldin Provinces. Eldin Province, particularly the residents of Dragon Roost, wanted more mining rights to sift for dragon ore. The list went on and on.

Politics.

Everything was politics.

I was also the ambassador to the Twilight Realm… if what could be called over the last few years of non-negotiation an ambassadorship. Access to the Twilight Realm had been cut off by the queen herself, Midna the Twili ruler. The relationship between our two nations could be called anything but friendly, tolerable would be the most apt way to describe it. There was no direct discord displayed between us, but there was no sufficient way of me knowing what our true diplomatic stances were. It had been years since our nations took part in public discourse. Besides the liberation of the Twili from the Hero of Twilight, I knew there were still some unresolved issues between Hyrule and the Twilight Realm. How were we going to mend the past? What safety measures were we going to put in place besides destroying the mirror to stave off villains? Would we ever open our lands to each other again? What about trade? What could our cultures have learned from each other? There was so much that still needed to be discussed. Even so, I understood Midna's reservations. Her fears stemmed from an evil dictator named Zant, who once usurped the twilight throne, betrayed her father, and turned her highness at the time into an imp. It was later found out that Zant was gaining his power from Ganondorf, a Gerudo thief from the world of light. Though it was clear Ganondorf had no association with Hyrule, I believe there was a measure of resentment on Midna's behalf towards the world of light. Midna never said these thing, it was merely an assumption I had.

I ran my fingers across my forehead.

There was more that could be invoked regarding the complicated relationship between the Twilight Realm and Hyrule, but it was too depressing to think about. The history was too sordid. There were somethings that I wish I didn't know my family had done. The recent past was one thing, milling through the distant past was an entirely different matter. It was no wonder why Midna kept her distance. I imagine she did not want a repeat of past transgressions. It was probably the reasoning behind the destruction of the Mirror of Twilight as well. There was, and is, an unsettling of peace about the land. There were too many unresolved issues. I needed solutions. I've spent seven years searching for them.

Foreign affairs wasn't the only rift between our two worlds. There were issues of a personal nature as well. Before Midna went back to the Twilight Realm, the hero and the twilight princess had a very telling exchange. I wasn't a fool. I could sense it even before either of them said anything. They were in love, but they never told each other so. However, a little while later, the hero had no qualms about confessing his true feelings for Midna to me. I was astonished. The interesting caveat about his timing was that by then I had fallen in love with him too. So, there were definitely some conflicting emotions on both our ends about doing what was right.

Overall, the situation ended up a mess, with many bitter feelings being left in our wake. Without the Mirror of Twilight, there was no way for Link to be with Midna. However, I think in some strange way, Link blamed me for that. I didn't want to disclose my reasons why at this time, but I knew he did. There were some decisions I made that looking back I would have done differently if I made them now. I could have been more empathetic. I could have been less selfish. But, I wasn't. I was blinded by my own pain to think of his. It was easier to shift the anger and blame someone else instead of looking in the mirror and seeing one's role in the conflict. It was a lot to contemplate on.

I then picked up my brush and ran it through my dark brown hair. My mother's hair was black, but I think the hints of gold from my father is what made my hair appear brown. I stared at my reflection almost in a trance, wondering why the beautiful woman staring back at me was so... so jaded with life. Why was everyday an endless parade of mundane tasks? Why was I always staring at the people from the rooftops instead of being a part of them? Why was my life so useless now? I used to feel I had a great significance to my people, but when I analyzed things, I mean really analyzed them, it seemed I garnered more pity than respect. It was hard to believe, but my people pitied me if they didn't openly disdain me. Who wanted to be seen as such? It was pathetic really. Then, of course, there was the nonsensical talk of my age and my never marrying.

I knew the gossip.

I knew the rumors.

I knew the fears.

"Our sovereign is going to end up an old maid," the ladies of the court whisper. "How many marriage proposals are you going to consider, before you make a decision?" the counsel men ask me. "Arguably the most beautiful woman in the country, and still unmarried!" the older women utter. "How will we ever have a Nohanseen heir to the throne when you have no husband?"

They all had legitimate concerns. However, I was not going to let the stress of an heir overwhelm me.

I wasn't.

I couldn't.

When the time came for me to marry, I would marry. Until then, Hyrule needed me as I was now: the woman trying to find a solution to the problems. I put the brush down and stared at my dark blue reflective eyes.

"So many duties," I whispered, caressing my hand over my creamy pale cheek, "I wish it were as simple as the soldier's reply."

It was past dusk, as calm settled over the castle of Hyrule. Many of the day's rustlings had retired to the quiet of evening. It was then I heard a mild grumble, grumble in my stomach.

I haven't had supper yet, I thought of my slight hunger.

Suddenly, there was a knock on my chamber door.

"Come in," I called.

The door opened and Lydia, my personal attendant, came in. She was twenty seven years of age, the same as I, with dark hair and a beautiful smile. She could have been my sister, with her expressive blue eyes and fair complexion. I considered Lydia my closest friend more than my servant. She was very direct, which I appreciated with a lot of 'yes' men around me. I needed someone with clarity of thought.

"I brought you your dinner your majesty," Lydia said setting a tray down on the table in the center of the large room.

I smiled at her through the mirror.

"We are alone, so you can call me Zelda, Lyddie," I corrected, "and you must be a mind reader because I'm famished."

She returned my smile.

"Perfect," she said, "and I must."

Lydia lifted the silver lid and under it was roasted pheasant and red grapes. It looked delightful. Afterward, Lydia walked over to me and picked up my brush. She started brushing my hair when she took note of my expression.

"Do you want to get ready for bed before you eat Zelda?" she asked.

I shook my head and avoided her eyes for a moment. Lydia paused for a moment.

"What's the matter?" she asked. "Was court bothersome today?"

I shook my head.

"Court was fine," I said, "it's just the usual suppositions, you know: drafting bills, making deals, budgeting -the norm."

Lydia nodded, understanding completely.

"Try to leave that where it belongs, in court," she said softly, "things will get better. The people know you are trying, and they love you for it."

I wasn't so sure about that last sentiment, but I attempted to be optimistic.

I hope so, I thought.

"Anyway," I said, changing the subject, "was there any correspondence today?"

Lydia grinned.

"As a matter of fact there was," she said.

She stopped brushing my hair and reached into the front pocket of her dress to pull out a red and black stationery. Even without opening it, I knew who it was from.

"This came from the attendant of the Prince of Dragon Roost," she said, handing me the letter.

I tried not to let it show, but I rolled my eyes.

"Prince Elbourne again?" I inquired casually.

Lydia withheld a chuckle.

"I don't know my lady," she replied.

I raised my brows and groaned.

"Oh yes you do," I accused, "you know his letter head very well. Why else would you laugh the way you are now?"

Lydia didn't reply and covered her mouth as she chuckled. I snatched the letter from her hand and tore it open to get this over with. It was unsurprisingly just as I suspected.

The letter read:

My Darling Zelda,

I just returned from a hunting campaign and am eager

to get reacquainted. Please correspond with me at your

earliest convenience. Also, please know that you will always

have a piece of my heart. I so willingly submit it to you.

Loving You Always,

Elbourne of Dragon Roost

I sighed at the letter's end and tossed it on the dresser.

"What did he say?" Lydia asked, trying to hide the grin from spreading across her face.

I didn't want to discuss it.

"Nothing he hasn't said before," I replied quietly.

Lydia studied me for an instant, then continued brushing my hair.

"Will you meet with him?" she asked.

I looked at her taken aback, but then narrowed my eyes.

"You read it?" I accused.

She paused for a moment then nodded.

"I had to Zelda, he's so charming," she said, "and he adores you."

That wasn't the point.

"You are going to get enough of reading my mail," I accused, "that's an invasion of privacy."

Lydia immediately giggled.

"It's my job to make sure there are no threats to your life," she said simply, "I just happened to read the letter in passing."

I groaned audibly at her answer.

"Oh yes," I went on sarcastically, "the black and red stationery are no indicators at all of who this could be from!"

Lydia giggled more.

"It could be an assassin posing as Elbourne, you never know," she joked, but then digressed when she saw I wasn't pleased."Don't be angry. I think it's sweet that he's so enamored with you."

I had nothing to say on her sentiments. I had known Elbourne a long time, since we were children, and we had a complicated relationship at best. He was the crown prince of Dragon Roost and when his father died, he was going to be king. He was ambitious. Very ambitious. I sometimes wondered if his announced feelings for me were part of his plans. There was no doubt he cared for me. There were things he had done to protect me that even a brother wouldn't do. He was my dearest friend and confidant. But, he was also a hedonist and philanderer. He loved women. He loved being in the company of many women and that was why I didn't believe his confessions of love for me. There were some times he was dead serious in telling me he was in love with me, but his actions proved otherwise. His sex life was legendary, and I didn't need to be a part of the legend. Right now, he and I were not on good standing. I actually tried to call on him several times in the recent past and he brushed me off like a senseless woman. He had never done so before. That was when I knew he was either going hunting, or he was going to spend a few days in a brothel. Elbourne loved his brothel girls, but that wasn't a misnomer for a shameless womanizer like him. It was why I sensed he sent the letter. He was trying to butter me up.

"If you must know," I started, "no, I'm not going to answer his call."

Lydia paused.

"May I ask why?" she inquired.

I took in a frustrated groan.

"You already know why," I replied.

I did not wanting to take the conversation further. Lydia gauged my response and went on anyway.

"The Hyrulean Festival is coming up in a few months," she said all of a sudden, "do you really intend to go alone again?"

I didn't meet her eyes.

"If need be, yes," I said, then added, "it's a peasant festival anyway."

Lydia resumed brushing my hair and took a minor offense.

"Well, we all don't have the privilege to attend the Aristocrat's Ball like you do every year Zelda," she replied, "some of us aren't rich. That 'peasant festival' is very entertaining for the rest of us."

I realized how I sounded and apologized immediately.

"I didn't mean it the way I said it," I reassured, "the festival is wonderful Lydia, really it is, I just see no need to take Elbourne with me."

"But Prince Elbourne-" she tried.

I was growing tired of this subject.

"If you must know, I find his company at times aggravating," I interrupted. "Elbourne may be handsome, true, but he's also conceited, and extremely uncouth in his dealings with other people. There's a reason only very few people can stand being around him. He can come off as an egotistical bastard. For the most part we have very little in common."

Lydia looked at me surprised at my unbridled honesty.

"So... why not just tell him that?" she asked me finally. "Why associate with him if you find him so repulsive?"

That was a question many in my kingdom had. The people didn't understand my relationship Elbourne, mainly because he was so crass and off putting. However, Elbourne did have another side. When we were alone he was like another person. He was kind and generous, which completely contradicted my earlier insults. It truly was complicated. On the one hand he frustrated me, on the other hand I cared for him. I wasn't sure what answer Lydia wanted me to give her.

"You don't know how fragile that man's ego is," I said finally.

She nodded once more.

"I see," she replied, but then asked, "is... something else holding you back from telling him how you really feel?"

Now I looked at her puzzled and raised a brow.

"No, why?" I asked.

She shrugged.

"I don't know..." she trailed, "it seems to me you might be keeping him around because you're lonely."

I looked at Lydia surprised.

"What?" I snapped.

She saw no need to refrain from what she said.

"I think you keep him around because you're lonely," she repeated. "He's handsome and showers you with attention when you need it. He brings you lovely gifts, and you just said he's amiable with you."

I became indignant at her accusation.

"Stop brushing my hair at once!" I said, and then pushed back from my chair and stood up.

Lydia looked at me surprised, but didn't get at all intimidated by my action or my tone. It seemed, rather, to have humored her. She just grinned.

"Did I strike a chord?" she asked. "Are you upset because I gave you a little bit of truth?"

I narrowed my eyes.

"How dare you say such things to me Lyddie?" I demanded. "You are not with your mavens when you're speaking with me!"

She rolled her eyes and shook her head.

"Zelda-" she tried.

"Silence!" I said to her forcefully.

Lydia closed her mouth and just stared at me. She seemed annoyed with my frustration. I stared back with mild contempt, aggravated that she knew my real intentions. I was lonely. I was tired being by myself. And, even though Elbourne was a complete and utter scoundrel at times, he provided me with the solace and attention I so desperately needed when I could get it nowhere else.

"So now you're acting like a queen again?" she asked sarcastically. "Do you want me to start calling you 'your majesty' once more?"

She did have a point, but I didn't address it.

"I am sick of your accusing tone!" I said. "I am not so pathetic that I would use someone else for a little attention."

Lydia just stared at me. I could tell she didn't believe me. Even so, I looked away from her and walked over to my closet. There was a brief silence between us after that.

"Permission to speak freely your majesty?" Lydia asked me all of a sudden.

I paused in what I was looking for and turned to look at her.

Haven't you been? I wondered.

"Will you stop that?" I demanded. "Of course you can speak freely."

Lydia then came up and began searching with me.

"Does your hesitation have anything to do with the Hero of Twilight?" she asked softly. "Do you still care for him Zelda?"

My throat tightened.

Link... I thought.

I hesitated before answering her.

"He's only ever been my friend," I replied, "and it's been years since we've spoken to each other."

She shrugged.

"You can deeply care for a friend," she replied, "and I'll be honest it didn't seem that way when the two of you worked together. It seemed like you were both very much in love."

I pursed my lips together. That truth stung.

"We were never in love," I said more to myself than to Lydia. "At least, Link was never in love with me. We were friends, but I doubt he feels the same way now or ever did. And no, my issues with Prince Elbourne have nothing to do with Master Link."

I was lying of course and Lydia didn't believe me.

"Are you sure?" she asked.

I was getting tired of this.

"Lyddie will you please stop with this interrogation?" I asked. "It's becoming annoying."

Lydia took in a prolonged breath and went back to searching for my night gown.

"Okay," she said in mock surrender, "I was just wondering."

Another moment of silence overcame us. Lydia could see that I was visibly frustrated, and when I pulled out my nightgown, she took it from me. I was going to grab it from her, but she stopped. Instead, she pointed to the table where my food was waiting for me.

"This is my job," she reminded me, "your supper's getting cold, and I was told by the cook that the pheasant was perfect today. Please have a seat and relax, I promise not to bombard you with anymore questions... unless necessary."

I looked at my friend surprised, but then grinned at her. I needed her brevity. I was glad she was able to see the humor in these situations when I could not. I also appreciated that she respected my wishes. Link was a sensitive subject, and there was a great deal that she didn't know. However, to show my goodwill towards her, I did what she asked and headed over to the table to eat. Much to my surprise though, when I sat down and looked at the delicious meal, I didn't have much of an appetite anymore. It was gone.

"How frustrating," I whispered to myself.

I looked over at Lidya while she sprayed my nightgown with lavender essence. I didn't say anything, but she caught me staring at her. She was puzzled.

"Are you alright?" she asked.

I nodded.

"I'm fine," I replied.

Lydia paused at my answer.

"You sound tired," she stated.

I shrugged.

"I am," I replied, "I just have a lot on my mind."

She looked at me with a bit of remorse and smiled.

"Things will get better, you'll see," she reassured like before.

I hoped she was right. I wanted life to be better. However, there was more to life than just me. So with that realization, I decided to change the subject. I was sure Lydia had other things to discuss besides my boring life. I wanted to know what was new with her. I didn't want the food to go to waste, so I picked up a plump red grape and examined it.

"Besides Elbourne's dutiful letter, was there any other news that I needed to be aware of?" I asked. "What about you? What's going on in your life?"

Lydia fanned my gown out and placed it on the bed. Afterwards, she pulled the sheets back and sprinkled a little mica powder on the blankets to keep it fresh. Once she was done she turned and faced me with a mischievous grin. She looked excited suddenly. I raised a brow at her expression and gave her a quick once over.

"What's gotten into you?" I asked. "Why are you looking like that?"

Lydia then came over to me and clasped her hands together.

"Well..." she trailed, then her smile widened, "I have the most wonderful news."

I looked at her intrigued.

"Don't keep me in suspense," I pressed.

Lydia didn't need much pressing.

"I just got engaged!" she said excitedly.

When she uttered that, I had to catch myself. I nearly gagged on my grape. I coughed and felt my eyes widen.

What? I thought.

Lydia came to see about me immediately.

"Are you alright?" she asked worried.

I looked up at her from my seated position.

"You're engaged?" I inquired through another cough.

Lydia patted my back to help me.

"Zelda you're choking!" she replied.

I fanned her off so she could focus.

"I'm fine," I reassured, "really."

Lydia's face didn't agree.

"You know you shouldn't be eating so quickly," she scolded, "it's not proper."

I didn't care about that right now. I was still reeling from the sudden onset of shock. I couldn't believe it. When I caught my breath I stood up, Lydia finally looked a little relaxed.

"Oh thank Hylia," she said, covering her heart, "you gave me a fright."

I was grateful she was concerned for me, but my mind was clearly on what she just disclosed. I looked at her almost without seeing her for a moment.

"You're engaged?" I asked again.

She didn't understand why this was so surprising to me.

"Yes," she said with a slight blush to her cheek, "Ivan asked me two weeks ago. I say it's about time, he's been courting me for years!"

I shook my head in disbelief.

"And you're just now telling me?" I accused. "Why would you keep this from me?"

Lydia shrugged nonchalantly.

"I didn't plan to tell you this way," she replied, "you've just been so busy."

I fidgeted with my hands at the news, not sure if I was happy or sad at hearing this, but I forced a smile anyway.

"Oh, yes right of course," I said with as much enthusiasm I could muster, "well, congratulations Lyddie."

I then came up to her and gave her a quick hug. I didn't let her see the tears welling in my eyes, I quickly blinked them away and got a hold of myself. Lydia smiled at me as I pulled back to look at her.

I cleared my throat.

"When's the wedding?" I asked.

"In six months," she said, unable to contain her smile.

I felt my heart sink.

Six months? I thought incredulously. That will be in no time.

I swallowed hard and forced another smile.

"That's wonderful!" I said to her honestly. "You must allow me to throw your wedding."

However, Lydia shook her head no.

"No your majesty, I wouldn't think of it, but thank you," she said. "Ivan and I want a small, simple ceremony with just a few friends and family, but I would love for you to be there. You're like my sister."

I completely understood and was touched with her last words. A wedding was an important rite of passage. It should be exactly what the couple wanted it to be, not excessively stressful with unnecessary fanfare.

"Of course I'll come," I said, "and I'll have the biggest bouquet there."

Lydia's laughed.

"You're silly," she said.

No, I thought, I'm afraid.

I looked at my friend again as tears filled my eyes. I couldn't contain them this time.

"Oh Lyddie," I said, then hugged her tight again, "you're going to be such a beautiful bride."

Lydia laughed softly and then hugged me back.

"What happened to you being mad at me?" she joked.

I shook my head.

"Oh, who cares about that?" I replied.

She laughed again and I cried more. I wish I could say my tears were noble, but they weren't, at least not completely. Lydia was the closest friend I had, and the thought of losing her friendship scared me to no end.

Who will I talk to when she's gone? I wondered all of a sudden. Who will tell me things exactly for what they are?

I pulled back and wiped my eyes. I tried to smile once more.

Lydia grinned at my sentimentality.

"You're going to make me cry in a moment," she said, "please stop for my vanity's sake."

I chuckled at that, but then felt my smile fade.

"I wish you all the happiness in the world," I said sincerely, "I mean it, you deserve to be happy."

"Thank you," she said softly.

I then turned and went and sat back down at my table. I was clearly shaken by the news, and when I went to pick up another grape, it loosened from my grip and fell to the floor. Lydia went to pick up the fallen food and tossed it in the fireplace to be disposed of. She then turned to look at me in slight concern. She gave me a quick once over.

"Are you alright?" she asked me.

I shook my head of my thoughts.

Am I going to be all alone? I wondered. Is that really the destiny for my future?

"Yes," I said, trying to smile.

She didn't believe me.

How could she?

"Are you sure?" she asked once more.

I closed my eyes as they refilled with tears.

"Yes," I lied softly.

Lydia bit her lower lip in concern. She knew I wasn't being truthful.

"Zelda-" she tried.

"Please excuse me," I interrupted in a quiet voice, "you are dismissed, I'm tired. I want to be alone."

Lydia looked at my sudden dismissal of her in surprise, but didn't protest it. She knew I was trying to hold it together.

"Zelda I..." she trailed, but then thought better just to drop it, "yes, your majesty."

She curtsied out of respect then made her way over to my door. A moment later, Lydia left my chambers. When she was gone, I wiped my face of my tears and got ready for bed. I got under the sheets and tried to get comfortable. However, it was no use, my mind was too preoccupied to be calm. I forced my eyes closed, hoping to induce sleep, but was not successful. I opened them again and stared at the mural on the ceiling. The painting was of the first family's defeat of Demise and the establishment of the kingdom of Hyrule. My ancestral parents were Hylia herself and the Hero of Sky. They were truly the happiest of all the members of the royal family.

It all started there, I thought, pressing the silk sheets closer to my chest.

I glanced around the room and rested my eyes on the painting of my great grandfather, Daphnes Nohansen. He looked powerful and strong, with his grey beard and piercing dark eyes.

I need to be resilient like you great grandfather, I thought. I'm sure nothing rattled you.

My eyes roved again and fell upon the portrait of my grandparents: Zelda the Sage of Time and Link the Hero of Time. They were a beautiful sight, but I knew even when I was a young child, they were never really happy together. It was rumored they quarreled often.

They were merely doing their duty... I thought, but I suppose they made the best of it.

I stared at my grandparent's portrait once more, before looking over at a painting of my father and mother: Daphnes Nohansen II and Quistis Leonhart. The beginning of my father's rule was peaceful, but when my grandfather suddenly disappeared in the Lost Woods, the seal of the Triforce of Courage waned and Zant established a connection to Hyrule via the Twilight Realm. My father was killed in combat, and my mother died from extreme grief... her heart just stopped. I looked at all the heroes and heroines of the past and sat up suddenly.

They were my legacy, I had no one else. My uncles and my one aunt were all dead. I had no... no legitimate brothers and sisters by my parents, and the stress of the entire Nohanseen name laid on my shoulders.

I'm all that's really left... I thought, there are no other legal Nohanseens but me. I am the royal family. Everyone else is dead, or in hiding, or somewhere. I have to bring peace back to Hyrule. I have to.

I looked over at the empty space next to me, realizing I had to produce an heir and keep the bloodline going.

But I'm not married... I thought, feeling a sudden onset of stress, and I don't want to marry Elbourne.

I quickly clasped my hands together and closed my eyes.

"Dear Hylia, if you can hear me now, I need your strength and resolve to take care of the kingdom of Hyrule," I whispered in a trembling voice, "what can I do to make you ancestors proud?"

I sat in bed quietly for a moment and took in a deep breath.

"Please, hear my prayer," I whispered, "if you can hear me now Hylia, please answer me."

I wasn't really expecting anything to happen. However, abruptly an ethereal light shined across the room, causing a blinding flash before my eyes. I lifted my hands to cover my eyes, and when the demarcation subsided I saw a beautiful apparition of a woman in a white gown, with golden blonde hair and soft light blue eyes.

"Oh my goddess," I whispered in surprise and wonder.

The apparition smiled.

"You've got it kid!" she said enthusiastically.

I looked at her taken aback by her reply.

"Excuse me?" I asked of her rather uncouth tongue.

The apparition put her hands on her hips.

"You asked for help didn't you?" she asked me.

I merely nodded.

"Yes, I did," I replied honestly.

She smiled.

"Well sister, I'm here to give it to you," she said to me rather bluntly, "I'm Hylia, and I'm here to help you get your groove back."

This is for those of you requesting this reupload.