Legend Of Zelda Fan Fiction ❯ Wounded Hero ❯ The Wedding and the Wall ( Chapter 2 )

The Wedding and the Wall

The way the sun rose above the horizon, unstoppable in its slow trek across the sky, captivated him. He turned when he heard his students arrive, not long after the sun broke free from the horizon. Almost the entire Gerudo population was present, minus the patrols. Nabooru walked towards Link and stood next to him. They were all ears when she spoke.

“As you all know, you're here to learn some new techniques and also to learn where fatal flaws could be. Listen to Link as you would me. Remember, anything he says is meant to help; he's not looking down on you.” When she finished, Link walked forward and counted those that were present. He turned to Nabooru.

“How many are on patrol?”

“Nine.”

“Hmm.” Link thought. “Okay. Who want's to wait until watch change to learn. We have an odd number of people here, so it'll be easier if it's an even number.” The women looked from one to another until one raised her hand. “Okay. Thanks for helping. Don't worry, you'll get the same rundown later.” She nodded at his words. “Alright. Pair off.” Link commanded. The thirty women looked at him for a moment. “Well, come on, we ain't got all day!” He said playfully. Going over foot movement first, Link saw how clumsy the women were when attacking. Naturally, the Gerudo were very well when it came to balancing. It was a different game when they tried to combine the two. He showed them again and again until they were starting to get it. He decided to keep to foot movement for the first day. Soon it was watch change, and Link gave the same instruction to the ten who missed earlier. The next day was the same training, and Link felt they were comfortable with the movement by the third. The forth day he went over their moves, pointing out where they left possible opening, and showing them how to close said openings. This went on until the seventh day, when he started throwing in flips and rolls. The women's natural flexibility and agility really showed here, as they picked it all up in one day. The eighth day he sparred with each woman and was satisfied they would be able to practice on their own and improve. The ninth day Link rested.

GERUDO STABLES—

It was the eleventh day, and Link was grooming Epona when Nabooru decided to sneak up on Link. Epona snorted at her, effectively blowing her cover. Link turned to face her. “Trying to sneak up on me?”

“What? Me? Oh no. Never.” She feigned. “Anyway, I have something to ask you, if you would come with me.” He followed her outside and saw three Gerudo waiting for him. His escorts, more specifically. “Link, we wanted to know what color tunic you're going to be wearing to the ceremony.”

Link thought for a moment before answering. “I can't wear white, and I'm tired of green, red, and blue. I think I'll have a black one made.”

“These are our guard clothes, so the ones we will be wearing to the wedding will be more… intricate.” Nabooru said. “Your escorts will be dressed in ceremonial clothes, matched to your tunic color.”

Link looked at them for a moment. “Sound's okay to me, I guess.”

GERUDO FORTRESS—

Link and Nabooru walked into the kitchen together. Tara and two others had prepared supper for the evening. Roasted pork, fish, and stewed potatoes. Link absolutely loved Tara's potatoes. After supper was finished, Nabooru stood and walked to where Link was seated. She clasped her hands over his eyes. “We have a surprise for you, Hero.”

He could hear a couple of people enter the room and soon he heard a soft thud, as if something had been placed in front of him. Nabooru moved her hands and Link gazed upon the wooden box in front of him. It was a deep mahogany chest that looked like it had a layer of water over it. He carefully opened it, letting his jaw go slack when he saw the contents. It was the deepest black tunic he had ever seen. The chest had a large Triforce emblazoned on it, and the sleeves held the Gerudo Crest for all to see. The lower part of it was slightly longer, and had gold metal strips woven into the design. When he pulled it out to inspect it closer, he noticed something else below. A black cuirass of light plate armor found Link's stare. The armor was black with gold trim, and the shoulders were slightly protected. He looked at Nabooru in silent wonder and then to each of the women in the room. All of them were smiling. Nabooru motioned for a woman to come from around the corner. She carried an item that had saved Link's life more than once. She carried the Mirror Shield. He stood as she turned the shield so he could slip his arm into the straps. He waved his arm a few times, a strange feeling of nostalgia rushing over him. Nabooru smiled when Link's ice blue eyes met with hers. “This is all… amazing…” He finally said, as he looked back down to his tunic and armor. Carefully folding the garments and placing them into the box, he shouldered the shield and left for his shared room after saying his thanks. Nabooru was right behind him.

“Did you like your gifts?” Nabooru said as she sat on the edge of her bed. Link set the shield in the corner and walked to his bed roll. He set the box near his pillow.

“Yeah…” He said, leaving his emotional guard down for a split second. Nabooru caught it.

“You don't have to say `yes' if you don't like them.” She said, starting to feel dejected.

“No, no. I like them a lot, it's just…” He paused, searching for his next words. “It's just that I can't remember ever getting a gift from anyone.” He looked at the box again. Nabooru's head shot up, and a look of total disbelief was written to her face. “I honestly think this is the first gift I've ever gotten.” She walked to his side and managed to catch his gaze. He slowly reached for her, softly hugging her. “Thank you, Nabooru.”

She returned his hug, whispering, “Your welcome, Link.” She hugged him a little tighter before letting go. His hands lingered on her waist a moment, and when she looked into his eyes, she saw Link. The true Link; passionate, yet reserved.

Maybe he was tired of being alone. Maybe she made him feel worth something. Link didn't know what it was exactly, but he did know one thing. He wanted more. Leaning down, his lips engaged hers in a slow battle. It wasn't long before passions were lit and that slow kiss turned into one of longing. Hands roamed over bodies, soft moans beckoning for more. Link knew these feelings. He usually kept them in check, but tonight, he took the reigns off. When he opened his eyes, deep golden pools met his, almost glowing in the retreating light. Her hands slid under his tunic and undershirt. She grabbed the bottom edges of his shirt. Link obliged her silent request, and soon her hands met with his toned upper body. Not wasting any time, he reached around and found the clasp to the piece of cloth she called a top. His efforts were rewarded by her honey colored breasts appearing. His lips met hers and she gasped when his hand met her breast. Inhibitions were cast to the wind, and soon, so was the rest of their clothes. Their eyes locked once more, and they knew that tonight was about longing. Lust drove their minds, and the bodies followed suit. Link had Nabooru pinned to the wall. Dipping his head, he left kisses that trailed to her breasts. She moaned as he took one nipple in his mouth, took the other in his hand, and his other hand slipped a finger past her slick folds. It wasn't long before Nabooru was grinding her hips on his hand, begging for more. Link, ever the helpful one, thumbed her swollen clit. The sudden contact sent her over the edge, clasping her muscular thighs on his hand while moaning his name over and over again. She felt herself being picked up, and slowly the fog surrounding her mind cleared enough for her to realize he was waiting for her. She nodded to his unspoken question. Link entered her slowly, relishing the feel of her as she took all of him in. Slick from her orgasm, he easily set a quick pace. Both whispering their desires to each other; both fulfilling the others' desires. Their pace slowed considerably, until it happened. Nabooru snapped her head back with a strangled grunt and uttered his new favorite words. “Oh yeah, Link!” And as she finished her sentence, he felt her muscles clamp down powerfully, sending him over the edge as well. With one powerful thrust, he emptied himself in her spent body. Propped against the wall, they stayed motionless for some time. The serene moment was rudely interrupted by a loud explosion. Both bodies scrambled for clothes as a guard rushed in, yelling that a group of bandits was attacking.

“There has to be thirty of them, some archers, some swordsmen.” Jayanti said, staring at Link's bare chest. They finished suiting up and headed for the nearest door. Lucky for them, it was a door overlooking the battle. Link took aim with his bow, as did Nabooru. Shot after shot hit its target, but the remaining archers soon found their position and returned fire. Ducking into the fortress, they quickly decided on the next course of action. Link unsheathed his sword as Nabooru notched an arrow. He nodded and almost exploded out of the doorway as Nabooru shot to keep the archers occupied. Link made it to the archers and systematically brought all of them down. Once they were out of the picture, the other Gerudo were able to dispatch the remaining bandits.

GERUDO VALLEY BRIDGE—

It was well into the night as the four walked to the fallen sentry. Lucky for her, Link had a fairy handy. While she recapped the events she could remember, Link looked at the cliff walls. His hand went to his chin. Nabooru told the sentry to rest for the next couple of days, and noticed Link's stance.

“What's on your mind?” She said, walking to his side.

“There should be a gate here, like the one to the Haunted Wasteland. Also, that bridge should be a drawbridge, like at the castle. It would allow for only one guard to be this far out and not be cut off from help.” He said, pointing in the direction of each mentioned item.

“Well that's a good plan, but there is one major problem. How.” Nabooru took a breath. “Even if we get the supplies, the women aren't as good of carpenters this kind of task requires.”

Link tossed that around in his mind for a few moments. He turned to her and spoke. “I can get the supplies, and if you don't remember, those carpenters I rescued from the burning Gaming Hut in Kakariko owe me a favor.” He grabbed her hand. “Let's go to bed. We can go to Kakariko tomorrow.”

After getting ready for bed, Link went for his bedroll. Nabooru's hand stopped him. She led him to her bed. It wasn't long before the two drifted asleep, exhausted from the day's events.

KAKARIKO VILLAGE—

All eyes were on the couple as they opened the door to the dank pub. Link spotted the five carpenters in a corner booth, and they made their way towards them. The master carpenter recognized Link and waved him over. After some small talk, Link got down to business. Explaining the past night's events, He told of his plan for the gate and drawbridge. The foreman sat back and thought before he spoke.

“The gorge is, I'd say, about thirty feet. Now, for a gate to support a decent sized bridge over that gap, it'd have to be made of stone and anchored into the surrounding cliffs. We'd need some masons plus the stone. We'd do it for free, but they would charge.” At that, Link dropped a large wallet on the table. It opened on impact and a few gold rupees spilled out. The carpenters almost all choked on their beers.

“Is that enough for you to hire some masons?” Link asked.

“I'd say that's more than enough.” The master said.

“Well use what you need on masons and supplies, and the keep the rest as a bonus. Just promise me you'll keep these goons from the fortress grounds.” The master carpenter laughed, but nodded nonetheless. They shook on the deal, and the two started to leave. About half way to the door, a man reached out and grabbed Nabooru's butt. She shrieked, and in an instant, Link had broken offending extremity. It was the man's turn to shriek, and his two buddies thought to intervene. It was hard not to notice the five burly men stand up threateningly in the corner. Then the two guys thought it was best to not intervene. Link walked slightly behind Nabooru until they were outside.

HYRULE FIELD—

The two rode in silence for part of the trip. The sun was half way through it's trip across the sky. An idea struck Link.

“You think I can pull the Master Sword from the Pedestal of Time?”

“Hmm. I don't know. Maybe.” She thought for a second. “What if you released the old Ganondorf somehow?” The thought made both of them shudder.

“Well, lets go to the Temple of Time and see if we can summon old Rauru.” He said, turning Epona to face Castle Town.

TEMPLE OF TIME—

Rays of light shone in through the stained glass windows, casting colored depictions of angelic beings along the long chamber. Link took it all in, reminiscing of old times. He noticed that the Spiritual Stones were all in place. It was strange, but he figured Rauru would explain it. He played the Song of Time, since Zelda had given him the Ocarina of Time while they were still dating. Nabooru watched in amazement as the Triforce lit atop the door, and said door opened slowly. She had never seen this part of the temple, even as a Sage. She watched as Link walked towards the sword, his sword.

“Rauru.” Link called out as he stood before the Master Sword.

And in a light show only Rauru himself could appear in, the ancient Sage appeared to Link and Nabooru. “You called?” He chuckled at his own joke.

“Rauru, I was wondering. What would happen if I pulled the Master Sword?”

He stood for a second, took a deep breath, and began. “Link, you are the Hero of Time, no matter which time you are in. You were predestined to be, and as such, you are. The Master Sword is only to be drawn and wielded by the Hero of Time. If you recall, you first pulled the sword at the age of ten, locking your body in the Chamber of Sages for seven years. That was when you were of sufficient mettle to wield it. Your current build would allow you to pull it without penalty.”

Nabooru yawned. Link scratched his head. “So… Can I pull it or not?”

“Yes, Link, you can.” Rauru sighed.

That was all he needed. Link took that last step, and firmly grasped the hilt. Memories flooded Link, and he held his breath as he gave it a firm jerk. Blue light exploded from the floor as it always had before. When the light receded, Link stood in front of the pedestal, giving the Master Sword a few swings to familiarize himself with its weight. He slid it into the scabbard on his back.

“Where did the scabbard come from?” Nabooru asked, not remembering him having one on his back.

“It appears when the blue light appears. Always has, and that's the only thing I could figure out.” Link answered, which elicited a confirming nod from Rauru. “Well, Rauru, I guess we'll be leaving. Are you going to be at Zelda's wedding in two days?”

Rauru pulled back as if Link had struck him, exclaiming, “Well I would imagine so, seeing as I am to preside over all royal weddings.”

Link chuckled at the old sage. “I'm just teasing. Anyway we'll be off now. Thanks for the help.”

Rauru disappeared in a ball of light as his words echoed throughout the temple. “Take care, Link, Nabooru.”

“Well, that was… interesting.” Nabooru said, as she and Link walked towards the exit.

“Interesting wasn't the word I'd use to describe that encounter.” The sounds of their laughter echoed throughout the empty temple.

GERUDO FORTRESS—

It was the morning of the wedding, and everyone at the fortress was hustling about, doing their assigned duties before their own queen left. Some were bathing the horses, others were gathering the necessary accessories to go with the ceremonial clothing. Link took his time getting ready, making sure he was dressed properly. He couldn't believe his outfit. His tunic was such a black that it seemed to devour all light that touched it, and he'd even gotten a matching pair of boots, identical to his Kokiri Boots, except the Gerudo Crests near the tops that matched his tunic top. His armor was a perfect fit, which surprised him. The Master Sword's hilt stuck above his left shoulder as usual, and he put the finishing touch on his ensemble. With the Mirror Shield secured to his back, Link set out in search for Nabooru. When he exited his changing room, his escorts were waiting. Clad in a black that rivaled his own, their armor was a sight to behold. Their shoulders were protected by gold trimmed armor that cupped the shoulder and flared outwards, but allowed free range of motion. The wearer's dominant arm held a more pronounced version, which held the Gerudo Crest. Their chests were covered by black plate mail, trimmed in gold. Bronze, toned stomachs were left bare, but it only added to the deadly beauty they held. A short skirt, barely reaching mid thigh, was decorated with Gerudo Crests over each thigh. More plate mail jutted from above their hips downwards past the skirt in a lazy curve. They, too, sported the gold trim and Gerudo Crests. Even their boots and gauntlets, not normal for Gerudo attire, were deadly, also having the trim and Crests. Link whistled at them as he walked past. They let it play their egos, smiling as they followed him.

Soon he came to a lone guard standing in front of a closed door. He guessed it to be Nabooru's changing room. Soon after, the door opened, and three women appeared. Their armor was identical to his escorts, but instead of black it was the most majestic purple he'd ever seen. Then he saw Nabooru. Her clothing was less armor and more dress than the guards but it still offered protection. Not much alteration from her normal attire, purple instead of pale pink. Her chest was protected by a less lethal looking version of the escort's armor. She still wore the large ruby pendant. Her pants weren't as baggy, sporting large Gerudo Crests on the outside of each leg. Her hair was held up by a band of pure gold, decorated with two of the infamous Crests. The bands around her arms also matched the hair band. She walked to Link and gently closed his mouth.

Link shook his head and blushed slightly, but quickly recovered. “You look… beautiful.” She rewarded him with a proud smile.

“Black's not a bad color on you, handsome.” She responded while hooking his arm. “Off to the Castle we go.”

GERUDO GROUNDS—

When they exited the fortress, their horses were waiting. Each had banners hanging behind the saddle with large Gerudo Crests. Four purple, three black. One Gerudo led Epona in front of Link. Gone was her normal saddle, and a black leather saddle in its place. The saddle had intricate Triforce symbols stitched into each side. Epona's banners held Triforce symbols as well. Nabooru motioned for a nearby guard to bring her a small box. She then turned to Link and handed it to him. Link looked confused. “I found these in the Spirit Temple.”

Link opened the small box and a smile appeared. It was his Gold Gauntlets. He pulled his Silver Gauntlets off, handing them to Nabooru, and slipped his hands into the new ones. The power contained in them coursed through his body, and the spectators noticed that Link looked revitalized. “Thanks, Nabooru.” He said, leaning forward and planting a kiss, which in turn made the women make teasing noises.

GERUDO BRIDGE—

The carpenters and masons were busy building Link's gate and bridge. It was quite the chore, and only the foundation was set. They looked up when they heard horses, and the sight before them was amazing. The morning sun glistened off the ceremonial armors, lending a polished look to them. The master carpenter walked outside the tent to yell at the workers when the group caught his eye, as well.

“Damn, boy. You sure know how dress up.” He said as Link slowed to a stop beside him. They nodded at each other. “Heading to the wedding?”

Link looked towards the Castle, almost forgetting he was supposed to answer. “Yeah…” He said distantly. The master noticed this.

“Well, give the couple my regards, if you would.” He said, mocking a bow. Link chuckled, but said he would relay the message.

CASTLE TOWN—

After the slow pace across the field, Link was happy to have reached town. People barely noticed the nobles arriving for the wedding, but when Nabooru and Link rounded the corner, people stopped what they were doing and watched them pass. It reminded Link of the town square when it held the reDead's. Once they reached the castle gates, the guards were stopping each visitor so that the messenger could check off the attendance list.

Once they reached the gates, the messenger smiled. “Lady Nabooru, Queen of the Gerudo Nation, are these your escorts?” He motioned towards her three escorts.

“They are.” She said with an air of nobility.

The man scribbled something on his scroll. He turned his head to the gates. “Let them pass. The knights nodded. Nabooru went through and waited for Link.

“Sir Link, Knight Commander of Hyrule, are these your escorts?” He motioned at the three behind him.

Link nodded once. “They are.”

The man turned to tell the guards to let him pass, but Link started on without the help. When he reached the gate, the Hyrule guards made a path, two on each side. They stood tall and saluted as Link passed them, and held the salute until his escorts were passed. The few Genthro knights that were present silently wondered what feat this young man accomplished to gain such respect.

Once Link met up with Nabooru, they followed the trail up to the last checkpoint before actually entering the castle. Their horses were taken to the nearby stables, and the group of eight made their way to the giant castle door.

HYRULE CASTLE—

The room that was to hold the wedding was almost full, most of the nobles and aristocrats already seated, some conversing whatever it is they converse. A teenage boy, no more than fifteen, approached Nabooru.

“Excuse me, Milady, but you happen to be Lady Nabooru?” She nodded, and he bowed. “Please, follow me. I will show you to your seat.” He waved his hand to the front of the room. They followed, and so did Link. It peeved the young boy. Once he showed Nabooru and her escorts their seats, he turned to Link. “I shall point you to your place, Sir Knight.” He turned his nose up and pointed to the door. “Once we have seated all the nobles, I shall show you to a seat. If there is room.” He turned to walk away, only to be met by an angry looking castle guard.

“What do you think you're doing, boy!?” The guard said through clenched teeth. “That is Sir Link, the highest ranking Knight in all of Hyrule! You had better hold your tongue or else I might hold it for you!” The knight nodded to Link, who bowed his head in thanks. When the boy turned around, he found three angry Gerudo, arms crossed.

Vajra looked down her nose at him. “You had better watch what you say to him from now on. And don't think for a second we didn't catch your stare as you seated our Lady.” The boy could have been part tomato, what with all the blushing. He mumbled his apology to her, and walked to Link.

“My apologies, Sir Link. Your seat is here, between Lady Nabooru and the Lady Ruto.” Link sighed. Here was going to be an hour's worth of talking crammed into five minutes, like always. He took his seat next to Nabooru, guards on each side of them. He and Nabooru talked small talk until telltale thumps could be heard. They turned to look at the huge Goron, who waved them over.

“Brother!” Darunia shouted, slapping Link on the shoulder. Link could have sworn he heard a vertebrae crack.

“How have you been, Darunia?” Link said, nodding to the other Gorons.

“Things have been normal at Death Mountain. Food is in good supply, and we have seen a jump in commerce. People really like our pottery.”

Link nodded to his large friend, but something caught his eye. Someone, to be exact. A squeal of glee was heard, turning all heads in the owner's direction. “Link!”

Ruto took off in a dead sprint, catching her escorts unprepared. They caught up to her as she was finishing the break in Link's back.

“It's good to see you, too, Ruto.” He said, trying to catch his breath.

“Oh man, it's been too long since I talked to you last!” Nabooru turned to Darunia, knowing that the Water Sage could carry on a conversation for a very long time. “I've missed you, you know? You haven't stopped by in months.” She paused for a breath. “I mean, it's hard to get away from the royal chambers, so I haven't had much chance to come visit you.”

Link opened his mouth to speak when a loud fanfare was heard. A loud voice could be heard after that. “Would all those present take your seats, the ceremony will begin in a few moments.” Groups slowly scattered as all in attendance found their assigned spots. He said a quick goodbye to Darunia, and went to take his seat. Nabooru was to his left and Ruto to his right. After the last guests were seated, a fanfare started, and Rauru appeared from a room of to the side. He nodded at Link and the Sages, then motioned for the ceremony to start. Four pairs of Genthro Royal Guards emerged from a side room and split when they reached the altar. Once they were in place, the groom entered from the same room, but stopped at the altar. He was clad in the shiniest set of silver armor Link had ever seen. A different fanfare began, and Queen Zelda made her grand entrance. Seeing her dressed in an elegant white lace dress with probably the longest train ever, Link could only stare as thoughts he believed he was getting over came at him full-force.

“Link…” Nabooru whispered after leaning in close. “Are you alright? We can leave, you know.” She nodded towards the door and offered a gentle squeeze of his arm.

“Nah.” He replied. “I'm fine. Besides, we'd probably piss off a few people if we just up and left.”

“Yeah, who cares.” Nabooru retorted.

Zelda made her way to each row, and after passing that row would sit. This went

on for eternity it seemed, until she finally reached the altar. Prince Rovus extended his hand and as Zelda took it, they both turned towards Rauru and took three steps. They let their hands fall and turned slightly so that each person was facing Rauru.

“Let it be known that this day, we are gathered in this holy place, to join in wedlock Prince Rovus of Genthro to Queen Zelda of Hyrule.” Rauru paused for a moment, cleared his throat and began again. “Prince Rovus, do you take this woman to be your wife, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, until death do you part?”

Rovus stood a little straighter. “I do.”

“Queen Zelda, do you take this man to be your wife, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, until death do you part?”

Zelda seemed to stall, and Rauru was about to say something when she finally answered. “I do.”

Rauru then turned and grabbed a golden chalice with wine and gave it to the prince. “With the drinking of this wine, let it be known that you are joined in spirit.” He motioned towards Rovus, and the prince took a sip. He handed it to Zelda and she, too, took a sip. She handed it to Rauru. He set the chalice down and raised his hands to the sky. “Then with the power vested in me by the Goddesses themselves, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride.”

Rovus turned to Zelda and lifted her veil. He leaned in to kiss Zelda, but she remained still. He finished the motion. Everyone in the crowd, except for the first row, exploded into cheers and shouts. The newlyweds turned to face everyone, and Zelda scanned the front row for a certain someone. When she found who she was looking for, she wore a look of total shock. Rovus glanced to his side and followed her stare. He saw a man standing in what had to be the blackest suit of armor, with three women who matched him. At this man's other side, a woman in lightly armored purple outfit with three matching guards as well. He figured they had to be some rich nobles from a bordering country. Looking forward, he nodded his head. A royal attendant nodded back and turned to the crowd. He raised his hands to silence the people.

“All bow before King Rovus and Queen Zelda!” The attendant said with a voice that seemed unnatural for his body. But even so, all that were present bowed low for the new king, all except the Gerudo and Link. Nabooru and the other Gerudo bowed slightly, but Link stood tall. This elicited an angry stare from the new King and his knights. Link stared hard at Zelda, and she returned his stare. Finally Link tipped his head at her. The rest of the crowd stood up and an unpleasant silence found its way into the temple. Link and Zelda continued their staring contest until Link finally looked to Nabooru. She wore one of the biggest grins ever seen, and Link returned the gesture. Rovus motioned to leave, and Zelda followed suit. People cheered once more as the King and Queen walked down the isle. After they had left, the ushers came and ushered the people out, starting at the front row. When Link got to the doors, a hand met his chest. Link looked at the hand and then to the person attached to it.

“I think you need a little lesson in humility. When someone says to bow before the king, you had better bow.” The Genthro knight looked back to the other knights to gloat. When he turned back to administer his humility, he was met with Link's own brand of humility. Link's brand sent the knight a good ten feet into the air, and a good thirty feet back. Nearby people stood amazed at the scene before them. The Hyrule knights knew to stay out of his way, but the Genthro knights didn't have that privilege. One knight pulled his sword, which was the wrong move. Three Gerudo women unsheathed their scimitars and formed a lazy arch with Link. The other four Genthro knights stepped up to play, and they were met with three more Gerudo women. It was a tense standoff, until someone spoke up.

“That's enough.” Strangely, it was Zelda.

“But my Queen, this scourge had the nerve to refuse to bow to you and the King! That cannot go unpunished.”

“Do not ever presume to know who needs punishment. This man…” Zelda looked at Link. “He has done nothing wrong.”

Link looked at her, and then nodded his head in thanks. He looked back at the Gerudo and said it was time to go. They sheathed their swords and reformed to their respective groups. Bystanders watched as Nabooru walked up to Link and gave him a big hug. She looped her arm through his and they walked to the stables.

GERUDO BRIDGE—

Not much progress had been made since the morning. The master carpenter was in the tent double checking the blueprints he had made for the new bridge. His thoughts were interrupted by a man's scream. Rushing outside to see what happened, he found one of the masons running for the tent and three Gerudo hot on his tail.

“Ahh!!! Help me!!!” The mason yelled as he ran behind the master carpenter. The Gerudo slowed when they reached the foreman.

“That worthless man was found sneaking around the Fortress. We won't let him off so easy if he's caught again.” The lead woman spoke with disdain practically dripping from her words. She turned and they began a slow pace back to the Fortress.

The foreman turned to the mason and crossed his arms. “What did I say about going past the archway?”

“N-not to?” The mason replied.

“Exactly. So tell me. Just why did you go past it?” The foreman asked calmly.

“Because of the beautiful women over there. I mean, wouldn't you want to go there?” He threw out that question in hopes of curbing the foreman's building rage.

“The thing is, I'm allowed to go there, and you're not. And you're lucky that Link told the women to go easy on anyone who went past the boundaries!” The foreman started calm and finished yelling rather loudly. The mason was about to say some more when the sound of horses got everyone's attention.

Link and Nabooru were out in front, talking about the weather. The other women in the posse were a few yards back and talking about how cute the two looked together. Once Link reached the tent, he dismounted and walked up to the foreman. “So how is everything coming along? Any problems?” Link noticed the mason become rather interested with the ground.

“Everything's good, but it's funny you should ask. This moron here thought it wise to try to sneak into the fortress of the greatest thieves in all Hyrule so he could get lucky. Ha!” The foreman said, crossing his arms again.

“Well, at least he didn't try anything stupid, or else he'd be in a lot worse shape.” A few of the other masons were gathering around, seeing as there were women here. “Cause if he would have tried anything, I gave them express permission to…” He paused and looked at Vajra. She nodded and took over.

“Use our… imagination…” She spoke with a deliberate slowness as the back of her scimitar ran a slow line from his neck to his groin. She held still for a moment before slicing the air forcefully. The mason jumped and looked as though he would pass out. The foreman laughed. He knew Link hadn't said such a thing, but decided to play along.

“Just like I said, Thomas, you're lucky Link had that little chat with them.” He laughed again and motioned for Link to come inside the tent. Link turned to Nabooru.

“You can go on ahead if you want, or you can go in with me. He said something about the bridge to me earlier, so it'll probably be boring.”

Nabooru nodded and stood for a moment. She leaned forward and kissed Link, which caused the women behind them to magically turn into thirteen year old girls. Link blushed and looked away with a stupid grin. “I guess I'll go on ahead with these whackos. I'll see ya later.” She turned and jumped on her steed and the women left at a slow gallop.

Link turned to the masons. “Remember, they'll leave you alone if you leave them alone.” He walked past them and into the tent.