Destined for Calamity (zelink)

Chapter 24

The next morning arrived swiftly. I awoke at dawn, well before the sun breached the horizon. My gear was already laid out, ready for departure at a moment's notice. With Lady Paya's assistance, I donned the corset of my new attire, a necessary precaution against potential threats during our journey. Once it was securely in place, she graciously excused herself, leaving me to prepare and refresh for the day ahead.

Finally stepping outside, I joined Link, who was engrossed in conversation with Lady Paya. Their words were hushed amidst the bustling activity of the knights and staff preparing to accompany us. There was something about the way they looked at each other that stirred a peculiar feeling within me, a subtle twinge in my heart. Her gaze seemed to hold a certain fascination for Link. Perhaps it was my tired perspective, but it was evident that she was captivated by whatever he was saying. Unfortunately, I couldn't catch their conversation as his attention swiftly shifted to me when I approached, Link the first to bow slightly before me, his hands behind his back.

"Good morning princess," he said as he stood straight, a slight teasing smile present on his face. His greeting drew the gaze of those around us, prompting all the knights to mirror the gesture of respect. I smiled awkwardly, momentarily forgetting that I was now viewed as nobility. It was unexpected, yet I understood the significance. If he were to stand by my side, he needed to meet the expectations of those around us, or perhaps he aimed to set an example.

My thoughts raced, but the entrance of a knight clad in slightly different armor spared me from this awkward moment. He presented himself as Gralens, the head of the monster control crew. Following him was a magnificent white steed, adorned with intricate gear. I learned that this horse would be my mode of transportation to the castle, a swift escape option should we face an attack. We discussed a contingency plan in the event of such a scenario, determining who I would follow and where we would seek refuge. We then proceeded to depart from Kakariko Village,

The journey, which had initially promised challenges, unfolded surprisingly smoothly, carrying us through picturesque landscapes and winding paths. Eventually, we arrived at the awe-inspiring castle, its majestic form soaring from the sprawling expanse of the field. Its walls, weathered by time yet standing tall, seemed to whisper tales of ancient glory.

As we approached, the enormity of the castle became even more apparent. Flanking the entrance were two rows of castle guards, their stance unwavering and their armor gleaming in the sunlight. Each sentinel stood as if carved from stone, a living embodiment of duty and loyalty. Their collective presence was a palpable testament to the gravity of our arrival, a reminder that we were entering a place of great significance.

My gaze swept across the guards' faces, their eyes sharp and critical, following Link's movements with a mixture of curiosity and a deeper, more enigmatic emotion. It was as if they were trying to discern some hidden significance in his presence. As their scrutiny shifted towards me, there was a perceptible change in their demeanor. The once casual observers transformed into paragons of stern professionalism, a clear manifestation of their unwavering devotion to their duty.

As our party crossed into the castle courtyard, a resounding trumpet blast announced our arrival, its triumphant notes reverberating off the ancient stone walls. The sound seemed to animate the very stones beneath our feet, imbuing the atmosphere with a sense of grandeur and anticipation. Near the colossal front doors, a small yet regal figure awaited us. Clad in garments that spoke of a lifetime of wisdom and experience, the elderly lady exuded an undeniable air of authority. Her presence commanded respect, and it was clear that she held a position of significance within the castle's hierarchy.

While we approached the entrance, the seasoned knight who had presented me with the magnificent white steed, Gralens, stepped forward, offering a gallant hand to assist me in dismounting. I stole a fleeting glance at Link, detecting a shadow of uncertainty etched across his features. It was a subtle nuance, difficult to decipher—whether it was born of mistrust or simply discontentment with our current circumstances. Ultimately, I chose to accept the knight's offer of aid. With practiced grace, I descended from the saddle, allowing the small woman to draw near. As we stood before the grand entrance, the woman's words carried a warmth and sincerity that immediately put me at ease.