Princess Zelda (kickassprincess) wrote in thedisplaced, @ 2017-12-28 21:31:00 |
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Entry tags: | !log/thread, percy weasley, zelda |
WHO: Princess Zelda and Percy Weasley
WHEN: Backdated to after the Christmas Play
WHERE: The Cottage
WHAT: A 'date'
WARNINGS: PG-13 (some talk of the events of Twilight Princess as well E.G: Zelda's healing of Midna and it's effect, Zant's conquering of Hyrule)
STATUS: Complete
In her own world, there were plays. But the ones she’d seen and gone to had been formal affairs, and she hadn’t been to one since...well her parents deaths. She’d try to research what was an acceptable outfit, but it had been a fruitless thing. In the end she’d settled for a long, and warm, skirt and long sleeved shirt and hoped it would be acceptable. She could move through her court and make or break courtiers with ease in Hyrule, but you wouldn’t know it here. She wasn’t fond of being a step behind everyone. It wasn’t her normal.
With a sigh she folded her coat on a chair near the door as she waited and studied her reflection in the mirror. Her mother had always cautioned her against vanity, so it was more to brush her hair over her ears. It wasn’t that she was ashamed, but she took the rules of this place to heart. A good ruler, a good diplomat, was expected to be able to follow rules without hesitation. And people here wanted people like her to remain hidden. It was an easy thing to do.
When she heard a knock she took her coat and put it on. She’d caught a chill a few days ago and wasn’t eager to repeat it, despite the beauty of the snow. Normally she would invite a guest in, but she wasn’t yet a good host. Until she had her things in order, she’d just meet people at the door.
With a smile she opened it, and then curtsied. It was such a habit she barely thought about it. To her, now she wasn’t Queen and people curtsied or bowed to her, this was normal. “Percy,” she offered warmly as she put on her gloves. “My thanks for meeting me” Smiling she extended her hands to take his. “I’m afraid I’d still get terrifyingly lost.” But she was learning. Thanks to the Triforce of Wisdom at least she retained information very quickly. “I do have wine, should I take that?” She would know the rules in her own land, now she kept having to guess. She took comfort in the fact that day by day, she was becoming more used to the new rules and would soon know how to navigate them with ease.
---
Percy’s was determined to play it cool, but he couldn’t help himself - the moment the door opened and he saw Zelda, his smile widened, and became even more goofy when she curtsied. It was just so sweet. There was only one other person he knew that was just as sweet, and that was Luna Lovegood, but where Luna was flighty with her head in the clouds, Zelda was much more down to earth, practical. Percy appreciated that, and how they seemed to hit is off with their conversation.
He took her hand and for a moment, held it confused as he decided what to do with it - did she expect him to shake it… or….? Maybe it was corny, but Percy bent over and quickly kissed her hand, which seemed the more romantic way to go. It definitely wasn’t as sophisticated as Percy wanted, but he hoped Zelda would overlook that. “It’s my pleasure,” he said. “Because the weather’s still cold, I thought I could apparate us over to the resturant? It would be a lot quicker, although if you’re not used to it, apparation may make you feel queasy. What do you think?”
As for the wine - Percy had forgotten about her gift, and he gave her a blank look as he thought of how they might bring it into the theater so that they could drink it later, at the Cottage. “Urm. Where’s the bottle? Bring it here, please.” He waited until Zelda had it in her hands and presented it to him, then he drew his wand. “Diminuendo!” The charm caused it to shrink small enough to fit into the palm of her hand. “There we go. You can carry it inside your pocketbook!” He felt awfully proud of his idea, and his satisfaction showed.
---
She had not expected the kiss on her hand but it made her smile brighter. Some things still transferred, and were still present here. She squeezed the tips of his fingers in thanks before considering his offer. “I think I shall manage. I will admit to curiosity. Being able to go from one place to the next is, well, magical,” she offered brightly. “It would be endlessly useful.” Not to mention the next time, if there was any in her lifetime, Ganondorf showed himself she could just be elsewhere and continue to keep him looking for her. “And if I do have any adverse effects I shall be grateful for having not eaten anything. Do I have to do, or not do, anything?”
She knew her own magic, knew the magic of others to know that sometimes the doing nothing was the important part. She nodded at the request and fetched the bottle. It wasn’t the one she favored, but it was close enough. She tilted her head and blinked as it shrunk and let out a surprised laugh. “How enchanting.” Smiling she turned the small object over in her hands before setting it away, gently so it wouldn’t be disturbed. “Can that be done to anything? Even people? Can you do magic without the wand? How does it work?” She seemed to at least realize she was probably going too fast, asking too much and shook her head. “Apologies. I am sure you don’t need a million questions. My own magic is so different from what you can do. And I have a drive to know things.”
And for the first time in awhile, she could just be herself rather than what was expected of her as Queen. It didn’t mean she forgot her purpose, the things she had to atone for or her duty but in the same breath she could learn a lot more as well, and once she returned home could put all of it to practice to be the sort of ruler her people deserved.. “I must say,” she offered warmly with a bow of her head, “it’s very impressive” As ever, she meant what she said. Offering kind words was easy for her, and something she enjoyed.
---
What Percy didn’t realize was that Zelda thought she might be able to learn how to apparate herself. As far as Percy knew, she was a Muggle, without any magical ability; and even if she was magical, she was from a different world where the rules of magic were most likely different. Therefore is was unlikely she could be taught, but as long as he was around, he would be happy to apparate to anyplace she wanted to go.
“All you need is to stay close. When we’re ready to leave, I’d advise you to hold on, to avoid being separated. It could get messy, otherwise.” He didn’t want to frighten Zelda with stories of splinching, and since there wasn’t a magical hospital around to help in case something bad happened, it would be better to be safe than sorry. Plus, it would give Percy a good excuse to be nearby, if only for a minute or two.
He tried to answer her questions the best he could, “The spell only works on inanimate objects. There’s another spell that causes living things to shrink and grow. It’s tricky, and considered dangerous on humans unless you’re skilled, but generally safe for plants and animals.” He smiled at how clever she was to ask about his wand. “There’s no need to apologize. It’s wonderful that you’re so inquisitive. There are witches and wizards who can cast spells without their wands, but it takes concentration. The wand focuses and directs our inherent magical ability, along with the incantation, but with practice, it can be done in the mind, without saying a word.” He paused and looked at her curiously. “You’re also magical?” This was the first time the topic had been brought up.
By the expression upon his face, it was clear that Percy wanted to delve more into their conversation, but a quick peek at his wristwatch told him, “If we want to make the play, we ought to leave now. Hold your thoughts, we can continue discussing this afterward. Is that alright?”
--
She nodded and without much hesitation stepped closer. She knew enough about magic to know to follow whatever instructions people gave her. Especially magic she wasn’t familiar with. She listened intently, taking everything to memory before nodding. “Yes, but it’s a different sort of magic. My people, Hylians, are capable of spellcraft and the use of magical items but my case is a little different. Divinely sourced magic rather than a more natural sourced magic. Which would explain why I need no physical object or incantation, but on the other hand the magic seems more apt to heal.”
“Oh, yes. Of course.” Otherwise she’d stand here all night asking tons of questions, and that was probably less than comfortable. Smiling she went to link her arm with his. He’d said physical contact was best, and now that she could be more tactile with people she took opportunity to do so.
He was also right that apparating was less than pleasant. Going from one place to the next made her take in a long, deep breath before she felt everything settle a bit more. But long practice of it made it so she could keep her composure. Besides being a touch paler then her usual, she showed little of her discomfort. If that happened every time she had to wonder about that.
At least the short walk to the theater let her settle herself more, and by the time the play began she was herself again. And while she missed cues in it, and didn’t understand some of the things mentioned she understood enough of the context and message to find it truly lovely. What she didn’t understand she simply put to memory to either ask about at a later date or research on her own terms and in her own time.
---
Divenly sourced magic? Percy’s expression was questioning, and a little worried. What did that mean? Was she a priestess? Their previous conversations were focused on politics and various details of their respective worlds, political, social, and topographical. Now they were getting to know one another, personally, which was not without its own set of anxieties. What if she was one of those priestesses that required celibacy? Now that would put an awkward twist on Charlie’s reminder of where the condoms were kept. He would have to ask about that, later - for now, they had a performance to attend.
The Christmas Carol was one of the few Muggle stories that Percy knew, His father, an avid Muggle fan, had brought a children’s copy of the book to the Burrow shortly after Fred and George were born. Percy could still remember turning the oversized pages in the glowing light of the Christmas tree, the colorful illustrations, and his fascination with the ghosts’ participation. He was a little disappointed by the decision to have the play be in a steampunk setting, because he enjoyed period pieces, but once he got over that (and how Scrooge was a woman!) he was able to sit back and enjoy the show.
“All in all, very well done. Not sure about that small monster playing Tiny Tim, but given the setting, it surprisingly worked.” Percy looked at Zelda. “Are you alright with apparating again?” He’d seen her discomfort the first time around, and wasn’t going to have her experience it again if she didn’t want to.
---
His comment made her pause a moment and think. Coming from a land with at least four different species it wasn’t too surprising to find Goron or Zora among the humans and Hylians. To her, the little creature had seemed normal enough. And adorable to boot. “I am guessing that isn’t normal. I thought he was rather adorable. It did not seem very strange to me.” Everything else did, just not that.
Smiling she nodded and went to take his arm again. Hopefully, it was something you could get used to. Considering that Percy seemed to have no ill effects, she had at least that as an example. And the second time wasn’t quite as bad. Maybe because she knew what to expect now, knew how to combat feeling so out of sorts.
She still took a moment to compose herself and brush her hair behind her ears. Now she didn’t need to hide anymore, she wouldn’t.
---
“I suppose he vaguely resembles a Goblin,” Percy said, thoughtfully, “But in my world, Goblins, don’t usually mix with humans, unless it has to do with commerce. Actually, it’s very rare for humans and other beings to associate closely. Paths do cross, and there are rare exceptions, which I suppose our circumstances are one of those exceptions, but usually humans associate with humans, ghosts with ghosts, house elves with house elves, et cetera.”
Percy could get used to Zelda taking his arm, and when she did so, he smiled at her face. For all his pratter about how races in his world didn’t mix, it hadn’t occurred to him that Zelda wasn’t human. Yes, her ears were pointed, but she looked more human than anything else, and so it was just a trait he thought cute, but nothing more than that.
A few moments later, they’d apparated to the front porch of the Charlie’s cottage, and Percy let himself in by unlocking the door with his wand, and opening the door for Zelda to enter first before closing the door so no more cold air could come inside.. The inside rooms were dim, which Percy took as a good sign that Charlie was indeed, not around.
“Are you ready for a surprise?” he asked Zelda, then with another wave of his wand, the living room burst into splendorous color as the fairy lights on the tree and around the mantle came on. Another spell caused the low fire inside the hearth to flare to life, completing the cozy scene with crackling flames.
---
She startled slightly, only because she hadn’t quite expected the sudden lights and fire. Then she looked around and smiled. Things like this were uncommon to her, and both the display and the way of presenting it had been enchanting. “This is lovely.” she offered brightly and gave Percy a bright smile. “And I am surprised. I have never seen anything like this.” She walked forward, looking at the lights with delight. She touched nothing, not daring to risk anything breaking, but looked closely for a long moment.
She did, still recall his words about his own words about the various peoples not mixing. “Why do they not mix? Is it like the Zora, the climate is just too different?” She was still looking as she asked, but after a moment recalled to remove her coat. It would be plenty warm without it. “Zora’s are an aquatic race. They spend most of their days in their lake. You see them in Castle Town on occasion but not nearly as much as you see the Goron or the humans. They need the water.” Curiously she studied one of the decorations. “Is it not odd to not speak to other creatures? In Hyrule, Hylians and humans mix without any concern, along with the other creatures. We’re very similar, in many ways. Save the obvious differences.”
She broke from her curiosity to look at Percy. “I do not know if Hyrule has ghosts. It is likely. Old lands have old spirits. I think it would be interesting to speak to one.” Then she tilted her head before recalling her wine and took the small bottle out and offered it to Percy. “You must tell me how you do this. It’s amazing.”
---
The way Zelda reacted was exactly how Percy had hoped, with childlike wonder and joy, and that joy reflected back and warmed his heart, causing him to also smile. Basked in the mutli-colored lights, she looked exceptionally lovely. To further set the Christmas mood, Percy brought out his tablet and, just as he was shown, pulled up a radio webstation - it wasn’t the Wizarding Wireless, but close enough. Soothing instrumentals began softly playing in the background - Percy had an affinity for jazz.
“I’m glad you explained what Zora are,” he said, heading over to the sidebar where he brought out a pair of wine glasses. “I’ve never heard of them before, but they sound very interesting. The way you describe them sounds like the merpeople of my world. You’ll have to tell me about the Gorons, though.”
The glasses were set down upon the coffee table situated in front of the sofa, and Percy considered her question. “It’s not quite straightforward as that. I could say that temperament plays a role, because the Goblins are naturally disagreeable. But then again, there’s a long, sordid history involved, including a series of Goblin Rebellions, which periodically took place across the centuries. The Goblins accused humans of discrimination and prejudice, which may be in somewhat true, but for their part, the Goblins never made it easy. As it stands, the Goblins and Wizards have a precarious alliance - we rely on them to run our banking system, because despite their politics, when it comes to handling wealth, they’re surprisingly neutral. There are other beings, such as the centaurs, who prefer to remain aloof from human contact, and the House Elves, which is a whole other topic of discussion.”
Percy wasn’t sure if he wanted to spend the whole evening discussing the intricacies of Wizarding politics, but if that’s what she wanted, he would be glad to do so. He brought out his wand, and with a quick spell, he reversed the Shrinking Charm so the wine was returned to regular size. He then tapped the tip of his wand upon the cork, and it came out from the bottle with a pop. “I could explain how we cast spells,” Percy explained, taking the bottle from Zelda so he could pour. “But I don’t know if I could teach you. In my world, only those with the special ability are able to perform magic. Non-Wizards, or Muggles, as we call them, are unable. You mentioned something before about having your own sort of magic… Divine magic, if I’m not mistaken? I don’t know how similar it is to my world’s way of doing things. But I’d be happy to give it a test?”
---
It would never stop surprising her, how many things there were in this world. So when she heard music she looked around for a moment before shaking her head. No need for a bard, or musicians when you could just get music with just a touch.. It could be daunting, all these new things, if she let it be. "They are common to Hyrule. They'd probably dislike it here. All this desert? This seems more a climate for the Gerudo. Well, minus the snow." his question made her smile. Sharing about her lands and it's people was something she liked to do. "They are a race of people that, in my time, live on what we call Death Mountain. A volcano. They are very stout creatures, yellow in colour. They value strength and brotherhood, and are themselves very strong. They can curl themselves up into balls and then act like boulders. Slow in nature, at least until they roll. And they eat rocks. There were two who had come to Castle Town, to be merchants. I always liked talking to them."
She listened carefully. She liked these sort of things, information and the intricacies of politics. The more she learned, the better a ruler she would be. "What is a centaur?" She asked curiously. The name didn't mean anything to her. "I have to say, if it's a precarious alliance it seems almost odd to let them handle your finances. But in the same way, it's also a great measure of trust. Has anyone ever tried finding a neutral party between wizards and goblins?" She tilted her head before smiling, "I keep doing that, stepping on things that aren't mine to step on."
“Just the explaining would be wonderful. I hardly expect to be able to do what you do. I suspect I can do things you cannot. Such things cannot be changed.” Smiling she nodded, “yes. My people, Hylians, can cast magic if they learn but my case is different. I am a descendant of Hylia, one of our goddesses, and so my magic allows me to communicate with Spirits of Light and heal others. But I suspect it shows itself differently throughout my lineage. Not all of my lineage can do what I do, and I cannot do what my ancestors did. Should I one day have a daughter, her own magic will be vastly different from my own. My own father did not have the same magic I do, and so I suspect it’s stronger in the female line of my blood. Does it work that way with magic like yours? Or is it more, for lack of a better term, solid? And I would be happy to test. I might learn something new.”
---
As Zelda describe the Zora, Percy tried to paint an image in his mind. "I imagine a race of beings must be strong to live on a volcano called Death Mountain." He laughed a little. "Not a very hospitable sounding home. The part about mimicking boulders sound interesting. Do they actually transform into boulders? Or does their hide resemble rocks so well that they can camouflage themselves? They aren't inimical, are they? I imagine they'd be tough to enemies." He went on to say, "Centaurs are beings that are half man, half horse." Then further elaborated, in case she got the wrong idea, "A horse's body, but where the neck is, there's a man's torso from the waist up. As far as Goblins are concerned, it's the way we've always done it, and at this point, I'm not sure trying to change it will help matters. We're too dependent on one another, Wizards and Goblins, and in a way that's good. A tentative peace is better than nothing, I suppose. I know that there have been attempts at treaties and deals, but there really isn't a neutral party, which you suggested, to help diffuse tensions. What about these Gerudo that you mentioned?
Again, the topic of divinity came up, and a worried expression overshadowed Percy's face. "So," he began, tentatively, trying to understand. "You're a... demi-goddess? Are you... holy? Are you immortal?" Percy started to worry that he'd need to start treating Zelda differently. "You said your magic is healing based? What are you able to do, exactly?" he asked, then continued to explain, "In our world, magical ability is inherited, though there are exceptions. A non-magical person born to a Wizarding family is called a Squib, but they're not as common as a Wizard born from a Muggle, or non-magical, family.
----
She chuckled lightly, "The name is purposeful. The volcano is active, yes, but hardly dangerous. For as long as I have known it, it has carried the name. Dissuades people from trying to scale it, or bother the Goron." she smiled at the questions, delighted to answer, "they have stronger skins, but no it is camouflage. Very good camouflage however. And they are our friends, but they keep to themselves. They have a nominal seat on the council, as do the Zora's, and no decision is made without considering the effect it might have on them our our alliances." she tried to picture a centaur, and was fairly certain that even with the description Percy was offering her mental image was probably very different from the reality.
She listened to his explanation, taking a sip from the wine instead of offering another opinion. His world was not her world, she only had little information on it all so offering advice on it all was overstepping boundaries and being rude. And she didn't want to do either of those things. "Desert dwellers. They are a female dominated society, to the point where if a male is born he is made King automatically. Very little is known about them." She set her hand over the one where the Triforce dwelled and lowered her eyes. No matter what, speaking of the Gerudo would always bring to mind Ganondorf. "The one people I have been unable to make peace with. Their King loathes my people, so making peace is rather hard. I maintain hope however. One day, we shall live in peace."
She frowned to the expression, not really understanding it before shaking her head. "No. Not precisely. My ancestor was Hylia's reincarnation into a mortal body. I have no direct divine ties, merely a long bloodline to it. And no I am not holy, not exactly." Gently she went to set her hand over his. "I am not Hylia. My blood gives me powers and a duty, but beyond that no more. And not immortal, no. But my people do live longer." She let out a breath, "I don't know. Not exactly. I know I am capable of saving a life, in exchange for my own." She knew she'd have to explain that. "There was someone who was very ill. Her name was Midna. She could not exist in the Realm of Light, as she was a creature of Twilight. She was dying. I gave my life for hers. Her pain was my fault, so it was right. I remember...letting go." She frowned, "forgive me, I do not know quite what happened, but our souls did merge for a while. I understand Midna and knew her pain. I saw her soul, and she mine. I do not remember much else. Impressions. Feelings. And when Midna was healed, and balance restored I was back in my own body." She looked up at Percy, "that is the strongest way I have healed another. I can heal cuts, bruises, all sorts of things. But it has a price. It takes something from me. I think if it is necessary again, I could bring life to another but with my own at it's cost.”
She tilted her head, “curious indeed”
---
Their conversation was so engaging that Percy had momentarily forgotten that he was still holding on to the wine. When he realized the bottle was in his hands, like somebody coming to from a dream state, he blinked his eyes and then poured for the both of them, listening to Zelda as he did, but careful not to spill. Talk about alliances and councils were just the sort of topic that Percy had much experience with - details about government, its administration, and different cultures, such as the Gerudo. "So, what if a Gerudo male is born... and is automatically crowned king, but he isn't inclined to the job, or isn't qualified? Are the rest forced to follow an unqualified ruler? I can't imagine a society almost exclusively composed of women would tolerate that sort of thing." Percy was curious about how such a group reproduced, but he watched as Zelda lowered her eyes and spoke about the friction between them and her people, so he didn't want to press the issue. Given that there was not much known about them, Percy reasoned that Zelda might not even know the answer. Besides, this was meant to be a nice, quiet (and hopefully romantic?) evening.
However, if he wanted it to be romantic, Percy was going about it the wrong way, as the conversation turned to Zelda's magic and the negative effects it had on her. Percy was disturbed and worried for her sake. "That sounds intense. When you say 'it takes something from you', it's only temporary, right? You're not diminished in any way, I hope? If you rest, you'll be able to recover?" His hand closed around hers in a gesture that was nearly protective in nature, meant to comfort and console. "But you say it's your duty to heal? Sacrificing yourself to help others is so magnanimous, but... I don't like the idea of you going through distress to do it."
---
Despite the context of the conversation, it was one she was enjoying. She liked learning about other things just as much as she liked speaking of those things she knew about. So she nodded to his question, "to them following their King is law and destiny. And every hundred years, their King is born. As far as time has gone it has always been the same being." She paled, slightly, but continued. "His name is Ganondorf. He always seeks to conquer my lands, and either seeks to kill or take me captive." She sighed, almost sadly. "Destiny can be a prison. I hope he finds peace one day, that he can be a King to his people and lead them into prosperity. But he is tied to something very dark, and very old."
The touch on her hands brought her out of her dark thoughts and she smiled at Percy, "that is perhaps the kindest thing I have heard. To answer your questions I don't know. I do not feel any less when I heal, except to feel the effects of it once I have healed someone. But after rest, I feel myself again. And I understand your worry but this gift is not mine to hoard. If I can ease the suffering from someone, I have the ability to do so. But have no fear, I hardly push myself. I know my limits. There is too much to be lost in giving all of myself." Smiling she went to squeeze his fingers. "I am grateful for your consideration. You are far too kind to worry for me."
----
Percy didn’t like what he was hearing at all. “At Hogwarts, the school I attended, there’s a class called Divinations - attempting to tell the future by different means. The whole idea of destiny plays into that… that things are meant to happen. I don’t buy into that. Our fate is in our own hands, we’re only as stuck as we believe ourselves to be. I’m not trying to say I understand every aspect of this political dynamic, but there’s got to be a way instead of just passively hoping this Ganondorf changes his mind.” This was Percy’s protective nature revealing itself.
The Christmas lights reflected in Zelda’s eyes, and her smile was enchanting. The thought flashed across Percy’s mind that this would be the perfect time to steal a kiss, but for all of Percy’s bold talk, when it came to romantic dealings, he was more reserved. Instead, he let the moment pass - lightly returned the gesture by squeezing her fingers and said, “I know we haven’t known one another for very long, but but getting to know you has been a joy. You’re intelligent and kind hearted. I’d hate to think of anything bad happening to you.” He quirked a smile at her then released her hand to pick up both glasses. “Let’s sit down,” he said, gesturing to the sofa, “and try this wine you bought.”
---
“You are not the first person to say this to me, and don’t get me wrong. I agree with you. But for all my knowledge and wisdom, I don’t know how. I have ideas, but nothing concrete. If anything, this world is teaching me to think beyond fate and destiny.” Despite that being one of her titles. She might just be a story, but she still believed she could alter it. If not for herself, then for those who would come after her. Why else was she here?
“Sometimes bonds can be forged in moments. That, I learned from Link.” If anyone could make friends with anyone within mere moments it would be the hero. In this world, unburdened by titles and etiquette she could follow his example. And she was grateful for it. “So I am pleased as well for meeting you. I’m aware that not everyone enjoys talking politics, but I do. The state of affairs was all but my bedtime tales. Father always ensured I was kept informed and asked for my views once I was old enough to understand things. So it reminds me.” She nodded and moved to the sofa, sitting down. “Thank you. Now I have spoken so much about me, tell me of yourself?” they had interests in common but she didn’t know too much else. And she could be close to people now. “Oh, and I’ve become aware of the next holiday. I understand some of it revolves around gifts. What would you like?”
---
The only disappointing thing about picking up the wine glasses and moving to the sofa was that they had to stop holding one another’s hands to do so, and Percy considered it awkward to go for it again, once they’d situated themselves comfortably. “We have that in common. Whenever I would start discussing what I’ve been doing at the Minister of Magic’s office, most of my family tunes me out and accuses me of being boring.” He smiled at Zelda. “I don’t find this boring, at all. Who is Link?” he asked. It was the first time Zelda had ever mentioned the name.
“Me?” Being asked to tell about himself was a reasonable request, but Percy had to gather his thoughts for a moment. “Besides politics? I like the theater. Good food, good wine.” he held his glass to Zelda before taking a small sip, then paused to think again. “When I was still at Hogwarts, I wanted to go down in history as the youngest Minister of Magic. That’s when I had a lot of ambition, but I’ve become more realistic since then. Being the head of all of Britain’s Wizarding community is no small matter. It’s a lot of responsibility and needs experience.” He thought a moment longer. “I like museums and music, but I’m not as stuffy as my family sometimes thinks I am.”
---
She settled herself so she was comfortable, and could offer all of her attention. This, she felt, was only right. "I don't think you're boring, if it matters. And Link is known as the Hero. Like me and Ganondorf, he is tied to my land's divine circle. You see before Hylia reincarnated herself she had a Champion. While I cannot find any solid ties, I suspect Link is a direct descendant of that Champion. It's him who does all the hard work. But he's a good soul. Someone truly kind, who looks at the world and thinks 'I wish you peace, and happiness'. How can I not try and emulate that?" She asked with a smile. "He'd like this place, I think. Goddesses know what he'd think of this snow."
She raised her glass to his when he did and then smiled. "What is a museum?" The word wasn't familiar to her. "and it is no small matter but if it's something you aspire to do, I think you would be wonderful at it. But, then again, I never asked for my crown. I was born with that. I have always known my path. Being able to travel from it, find who I am is a bit of a blessing. I am learning so much I never could in Hyrule, and I can make friends outside the boundaries of court and etiquette." she offered Percy a grin, "odd as it might sound perhaps. I will always aspire to be a good ruler to my people, to be the queen they deserve but here..."smiling she gave a sigh, "I can be Zelda. So trust me when I say how much of a blessing it is to be able to talk to you like this. Person to person, no titles."
"What sort of music? I imagine it's quite different from what I am used to. And what of this new world? What do you make of it? Have you any plans?" She smiled again, "if I ask too much, or pry, you must tell me. I am learning the rules of this place still."
---
The longer Percy got to know Zelda and listened to what life was like in her world, he slowly began to realize that he was dealing with something quite different than what he was accustomed to in ordinary life. Goddesses of Light. Archetypal Villains. Legendary Heroes. Destiny and Sacrifice. Champions and divine cycles. It began to sound more like one of those tales that used to steal his imagination as a child - King Arthur, knights in shining armor going on brave quests, the Green Man, the Fisher King, the Holy Grail. Was is possible for somebody to actually live like that? Well, Percy considered, anything was hypothetically possible, since his own life was considered fictional by most. He had to admit to himself that it was very appealing, beyond his attraction to Zelda.
But then certain words struck Percy as startling: Crown? Court? Queen? Not only was Zelda endowed with divine magic, but, “You’re royalty?” Little things Zelda said and did before began fitting into place as Percy’s paradigm shifted to assimilate this new information. Instantly, Percy worried that he hadn’t shown her enough respect and deference for her position, but realized that this was exactly what Zelda felt was a burden, which she was glad not to carry in Tumbleweed. For a few moments, Percy stared straight ahead, taking a slow sip of wine - would this revelation change the way he interacted with Zelda? He worried his forehead and glanced in her direction. He cleared his throat and slowly began to pick up the thread of their conversation.
“No, no, no, don’t worry about asking too many questions. You could accuse me of doing the same. I don’t mind answering them. Urm. A museum is a place where the public goes to look at collections of great art and things of historical value. I’m afraid there aren’t any in Tumbleweed, though there are some very nice ones in this country. Jazz is… well… it’s the style that we’ve been listening to,” he said, gesturing to the radio and the Christmas music that was playing in the background. I’ll have to introduce you to different samples besides this, because it’s a little hard for me to explain what it is. This new world?” Again, Percy paused to collect his thoughts before continuing, “Is a good opportunity to meet new people and experience different things that we wouldn’t ordinarily do in our own worlds. I’m learning so much about Muggle life now, in addition to your world. Though, my natural inclination is to drift into the same patterns of behavior and activities I’d usually do, it would be a missed opportunity not to take advantage of what’s been offered us. I’m afraid I don’t have any plans, as of yet.” He offered a weak smile. “I’m still trying to find my roots here, and getting through Christmas. What about yourself? Is there anything you’d like to do?”
---
His reaction worried her for a moment. She was always honest with her life, her duties back in her own lands, but here her title meant nothing. And while there would be things she'd always carry with her, things she always felt she ought to do, she knew she was a different person in Hyrule. She doubted many would recognize her. And she did not want to be treated like a queen. But nor could she force anyone, either. Her title would always mean something to others. She supposed she could hide it, but that would be dishonest. She could only offer truth, and then her request. The rest was up to her friends. "I am, yes. Although it means very little here."
She smiled when the conversation resumed. Perhaps this sort of thing would make her miss it when she was home, but she also enjoyed the freedom. "Such a place exists? Then it is sad there aren't any in this town. I think I would like to see such a museum." A place of art? It sounded rather fantastic, and probably more then a little lovely. She regretted not having a way to travel. She didn't trust the car things here and she doubted travel by horse was a thing people did here. She'd have to find a way. She tilted her head and listened to the music. "Very different. In Hyrule, we have orchestra's. Court music. I'm going to see about the different kinds here. Learn about them."
She listened and nodded, "it is a lovely opportunity to see what this place would hold. And learning. Odd, I'm sure but everything in this world is so different from what I am used to. There are laws here that I feel make no sense, and some laws that upon reflection make no sense in Hyrule. There are customs here I cannot understand, like how a woman cannot wear a white dress except when she marries but I am sure the same can be said of Hylian customs. Once I feel more sure of myself and have learned this place's laws I might seek a position in this place's government but right now I am enjoying the work at the library. I go to the house of healing when I can, offer comfort there. I am thinking of taking some classes, but I'm not sure how to go about that. I was not born here, I do not know how to really go about all that. I want to learn for myself, but also for my people." She smiled again, "for the first time I do not know what my path will bring. I know that I will use it to be better, to atone for the mistake I made, but I do not know where it will lead. I like doing that."
---
Within his mind, Percy made a note to arrange for a future excursion with Zelda to a museum. “I’d be happy to take you to one. We may have to wait until after Christmas, though. It’ll be fun.” And something to look forward to, after the post-holiday blues that he sometimes experienced in the month of January, when there wasn’t a lot of fun and interesting things happening. “Classes,” he said, more to himself than for Zelda. “I hadn’t really thought about that. There are classes available for adults? I’d be very interested to know what’s available” He was all for bettering himself.
“Who told you that you couldn’t wear white? It’s done all the time. There used to be an old tradition that you couldn’t wear white except during the summer months, but even that’s been discarded. If you want to wear white, I don’t see why you shouldn’t. You say you don’t have any path, but if you ask me, it sounds like you’ve found a very worthwhile one to follow. Educating yourself, helping others.” He toasted her with his glass of wine, but then frowned a little. “What mistake is that?”
----
She wasn't too sure what a museum was, or really what to expect but it sounded interesting. This world held many differences, and she meant to see as many of them as she could. "I look forward to that." At his question she nodded, "yes, Noctis told me of them. It is how I am learning of the laws of this place. There are other things I think I may look at, but for fun not for any direct purposes. I have not had many chances to learn for the fun of it. Most of my knowledge is tied to Hyrule, and to my duties there." she frowned then, trying to make sense of that.
"Well. No one told me I could not. But when I was looking for a gown for the Winter Ball I wanted a white one, to go with the theme. It turns out that white gowns are meant for a very specific purpose, to wed." She tilted her head, considering. "So I have not really approached anything white. It seems tied to purity as well? To show how a bride has had no other lovers before the one she marries. I do not really understand that. It seems to be no one's business. Wouldn't someone you marry trust that sort of thing? Even if you have had lovers before what does it matter? Isn't the one you're marrying the important one?" Even in Hyrule, in confidence, she'd always been honest about these things. Her mother had taught her the truth of things, and to never be afraid of talking with those she trusted. Now such confidences extended to her friends. And without asking, she would never learn. "white, ot my people, is tied to Hylia and in that aspect to purity but no more."
She sobered some and glanced to the fire. "I let a foreign entity invade my lands, and turn my people into spirits." She offered quietly. "His name was Zant. I meant to fight him, but I was no match for him. He gave me a choice. I could fight him, and cost me and my people their lives or I could allow him victory. Had it just been my life he demanded, I would have given it to him, but I could not condemn my people." She let out a long sigh. "I condemned them to a life of being a spirit, and they weren't even aware of their fate. I should have found a way." She closed her eyes for a moment before looking to Percy. "I...am not fond of speaking of this. If it's alright. It is a mistake I am trying to mend with every step I take here. Everything I learn here is so when I return to my people, I can be the Queen they deserve. So I can atone."
---
“I don’t know who you’ve been talking to, but I’ve seen some rather beautiful white gowns in my day. I guess there’s a special sort of style of dress that is usually associated with weddings, maybe that’s what you were looking at?” Percy thought for a moment before continuing. “There’s a lot of traditions and customs we have that might’ve been considered important, before, when they were first created, but nowadays people hold on to them for the sake of tradition, but don’t necessarily understand what they’re doing or even care.”
He couldn’t believe he was actually discussing this topic that was rather personal for somebody he was still getting to know, but going on in a detached, educational manner, made it easier. “ In the past, it was deemed important that new brides were virgins, untouched by any other man besides the one they were going to marry. And while there’s still pressure in society among some folk for women to be that way, by and large, it’s not the way society works any more.” It made him wonder, though, if Zelda had any lovers in past. Not that it was any of his business, like she said, but still he was curious, if only because his mind kept going back to the place where Charlie said the condoms were kept.
However, discussing Earth traditions could wait - once Zelda began telling about her experience with Zant, Percy frowned and became sober. Clearly, this was upsetting for her, and rightfully so. “I don’t know exactly what it means to live a life of a spirit in your world, but I can imagine with my experience with ghosts in mine. Being a ruler of a country is a great responsibility, and sometimes you’re forced to make decisions that end up going against your best intentions. The decisions may even be bad ones, but when your hand is forced...” He pursed his lips together in frustration, thinking about his own experience working in the Minister of Magic’s office when Voldemort ran the Ministry, the things he was forced to do for the sake of keeping himself, his family, and other safe and alive. One day he might have a chance to tell Zelda everything, but he didn’t want to distract from her baring her soul. He held Zelda’s hand to help console her, and said, “You had the best of intentions, the welfare of your people in mind. Maybe there wasn’t any other way at the time, but still a decision needed to be made. I hope that a solution was found, that your people were returned to normal. Was there?”
---
She gave another long sigh. One day, she'd get used to this. "Others told me similar things as well. But it felt like the colour was a very specific one." and while the conversation wasn't one she'd ever have in public she trusted Percy. "I don't understand that. That's not anyone's business. When you marry someone, it is because of love. Or, well duty but that's a different sort of thing all together. But even in those cases, you bind your life to another's what does it matter what came before only in knowing that after you wed there will not be anyone else?" she shook her head, "something my mother taught me. Father was terrible at these conversations. Mother believed in honesty."
When he took her hand she smiled to him. She only half believed him, but his words were kind. "I cannot explain the phenomena. I was left unaffected, forced to dwell in the Twilight Realm and know my people suffered." She nodded, "there was. Once Zant and his master were defeated, both lands were able to be separated once more and my people were freed. My people do not blame me, but I blame myself. I did not see Zant's master, and took Zant at his word. I made a decision that affected my people, and in the long term would have cost them much pain. It is something I feel I must make amends for, despite my intentions. But I thank you for your kind words." smiling she went to squeeze his hand. "They mean more to me then I could ever truly say."
She was content then to let herself settle into silence and enjoy the lights.
---
The way Zelda settled into the sofa made Percy realize the time for talk was finished, which was perfectly alright with him. He relaxed upon the sofa beside her, and between the dim lights, the crackling fire in the hearth, the wine, and the soft music in the background, Percy thought how romantic a setting this was. And he curiously wondered if Zelda thought the same way, or if he was getting his hopes up too high.