Chapter One

Zelda stretched, reluctant to move from the comfort of her bed. She frowned. While she could not remember her dream, the emotions that her gripped her during her unconsciousness still lingered, like smoke in air—visible, yet intangible. It had been a sad one, Zelda remembered. As if I had lost someone. In an attempt to rouse herself, she rubbed her eyes, and was startled to find that her cheeks were damp. Tears? Embarrassed, she dried her cheeks with a pillow, and slipped off her bed.

Wanting to make sure that she was tear-free before she attended to her duties, she stepped in front of her mirror. Her reflection, which beheld a puzzled expression, gazed back at her. Her brilliant blue eyes still shone. What was my dream about, she mused, to cause me such tears? She brushed a liquid diamond off her lashes, and inspected the drop that sat on her finger. She looked back at the mirror, but her reflection offered no explanation. A knock sounded at her door, interrupting her thoughts.

"Enter," Zelda said. The door cracked open, and a girl peered owlishly from behind it. She tiptoed tentatively into the room, and gave a frightened curtsy. "Y-Your Highness," she choked out in a subservient whisper. Zelda managed to stifle a laugh—she acts as though I have a foot long fangs.

"Come closer," Zelda said with a friendly wave. "I don't bite." The girl started, as though the princess had guessed her fears correctly, and shifted her feet awkwardly. Zelda, sensing the girl's discomfort, and seeking to gloss over the sticky moment, asked, "What is your name girl? And why have you come?"

"I—I am Evelyn, my lady, and I am your new handmaid. I'm to dress you for the upcoming ball. Zelda cocked her head. "Handmaid," she asked, confused, "did you just say that there is to be a ball? Why was I not informed?"

It was Evelyn's turn to be perplexed. "But… my lady… you were."

Zelda's confusion did not waver. She motioned at her handmaid to explain. The girl closed her eyes, as though terrified by the prospect. Eyes still clamped shut, she muttered, "If you will forgive me for being so bold… The King did announce the ball two days ago at the Great Hyrule Feast. The ball will take place in three days, and you are to arrange a marriage with one of the noble Princes there…"

Zelda's mind reeled. "Evelyn, she said, griping a nearby couch for support, "will you come back in a few hours? I wish to be alone." The handmaid seemed surprised at the turn of event, but took it in stride. "Yes, your Highness." She dipped her head, and turned to leave. Zelda breathed rapidly, and waited for the door to shut. When she heard the anticipated snap of Evelyn's departure, she whirled around to glare at the mirror.

Why is it that I can't remember anything the handmaid described? For the love of Nayru—what ball, what Great Hyrule Feast, and what announcement? I don't recall anything from two days ago, let alone yesterday. Zelda gritted her teeth. I can't even remember my own dream. Overwhelmed with frustration, she pounded a fist—which did resound with a satisfying thud, but instead with an unexpected splash. She felt a cold liquid seep down her front, and glanced down in surprise. What the—she had forgotten that there was a wash basin was placed in front of her mirror. Zelda snarled and cursed—I'm forgetting everything!

A low chuckle sounded. "My, my," an amused voice said, "what language you use, Princess." Zelda gasped and looked around wildly, seeking to find the intruder. Imperiously, she cried, "Who dares enter my room?" Zelda stared out into the balcony, and found the owner of the voice.

There he was. Sitting amongst the trees that outlined the balcony, was a man. His face, which was strikingly angular and handsome, held an expression of utmost compassion. He was dressed in a green tunic. And his feet were clad in word leather boots. His golden hair stretched lazily in the breeze. And his blue eyes gazed at Zelda. A majestic sword hung at his waist.

Zelda stared at the weapon in shock, and something jumped in her memory.

And finally, finally, she remembered something.

I know this is a short chapter, but it's just an introduction of sorts. Please rate and review!

-evett