The Legend of Zelda: Spirit of Evil

Zelda awoke the next morning, refreshed and calm. ‘I need to talk to the sages. They need to know what has happened.’
Sending a psychic message to Neela to bring up an extra portion, she dressed and brushed her hair.
“Good morning, Milady. Where were you yesterday? I was worried.” Said Neela, walking in balancing two trays on her hands.
“Forgive me Neela. Urgent matters called me away.”
“Well, I’m glad to see you back. Enjoy your meal.”
“Thank you, Neela.” Said Zelda, feeling her hunger rise as she looked at the meal, realizing that she had not eaten since…‘Goddesses! I did not eat at all yesterday!’ Neela, probably remembering this, had made a excellent repast. Fresh ripe fruit, hot bread crisp on the outside, soft inside, spicy oatmeal, tender cuckoo pieces and either cold cider or hot chocolate to drink.
Leaving her crown off once more, she yet again slipped on her comfortable princess diadem with its rare lava ruby. Closing her eyes, she mentally left her body, searching with her mind to see if Ganondorf was awake.
A powerful and savage blast of dark energy hit against her mind, sending her body down to the floor. Curling up from the nonstop and immensely violent mental assault, she released a wordless scream of pain in her mind.
It stopped! Zelda sobbed with relief, still curled up on the marble floor. She heard the doors bang open forcefully and Ganondorf was beside her in an instant, picking her up and holding her close.
“…Dear…gods…!…Forgive me, Zelda…” He choked out, horror and anguish in his voice.
Almost hyperventilating, Zelda only managed to whisper: “Why?”
He gently stroked her hair, trying to calm her. “I thought…you were…Him.”
“…Evil?”
“Yes…That is exactly how he began to take over me before…A unknown touch to the mind.”
“I am sorry.”
He shook his head, still holding her close. “It is not your fault. I should be more cautious.”
She held onto him, leaning on his shoulder, barely aware with what she was doing. He cradled her in his lap, holding her gently to him, breathing in her sweet fragrance. He carefully picked her up and almost regretfully set her on the couch. “How do you feel?”
She rubbed her temples, surprised when she felt herself missing the warmth from his body. “Just a little dizzy.”
Ganondorf poured a mug of hot chocolate and held it to her lips. “Drink.” She grasped the mug and drank slowly and watched him prepare a plate for her. “Make sure you eat all of this. Food is essential to recovery from anything.”
Zelda smiled slightly. “What if I am not hungry?”
He laughed. “Do not try to lie to me. I caught one of your thoughts when I broke the contact…You did not eat at all yesterday.”
As if in agreement, her stomach grumbled faintly. Zelda blushed a deep red. “I guess I could eat something.”
He chuckled and placed the plate on her lap, making up one of his own. “What is the plan for today?”
Zelda picked up a fork and knife and started to cut up some of her cuckoo pieces. “I am going to contact the Sages. They need to know what has happened. To Link…and to you.”
“I came across an idea in my sleep last night. A way to free Link without killing him, hopefully.” He said hesitantly, as he sat next to her.
“By Nayru, then please tell me!
“An arrow…So powerful and pure, saturated with light and love…shot by a bow made of strong magic…If it hits his heart, It might possibly even kill Evil!”
“Why the heart?”
“The spirit dwells in the heart. It is easier to control then the mind, but just as effective…I know from personal experience.” He said bitterly. “My heart is soft.”
“Do not harden your heart, Ganondorf…That is what makes the person weak, and eventually evil, when they push aside and ignore emotions.” She said, gently touching his hand.
He started with surprise, then smiled. “True. I must be careful.”
“Will the arrow hurt Link?”
“No, despite what you have told me about Link’s desires, I know his is a good man. Such an arrow of light, love and purity shall not hurt him.”
They continued eating, talking about simple subjects. Her people, land and…life.
“Do you love Link?”
The question came suddenly, and Zelda felt indecision fill her. “I…I…!”‘ I have to face the truth! I cannot put this off forever…’ “…I……No…I do not…care for him…in that way…” She whispered.
“But you wish you did.” Ganondorf replied, remembering what Phantom had told him the night before.
“…A little bit…All the love he has shown me…and I cannot return it!” she sighed.
“Zelda…”
She almost dropped her plate. “Sages!”
“We thought we sensed you…Is that Link with you? Never mind, two of us will be coming to the castle to discuss what you have discovered.”
“…A lot.”
“We shall be there in half an hour.”
Zelda ended the contact and looked at Ganondorf, a small smile playing on her face. “I think they sensed your Triforce…They think you are Link.”
“…They are in for a surprise…and grave news.” He sighed.
“And a way to deal with this tragedy.” She said, frowning. “You may have given us the ray of light through the darkness, Ganondorf. Do not keep pushing yourself into the dirt.”
His mouth twitched, then he laughed outright. “Yes, I suppose that fits my actions towards myself.”
The laugh was infectious. Zelda felt her mouth tremble and she quickly slapped it. “I am serious!”
He stopped laughing and just looked at her, a smile in his eyes. She blushed and looked away, suddenly noticing how close he was sitting. Then, unable to stand the silence any longer, she faced him. “What is it?”
“You, my lady.” Replied Ganondorf, still smiling slightly.
Zelda tried to look away, but was caught in his fiery, red-gold gaze. “What is wrong with me?”
He hesitantly trailed his long, well-built fingers alongside her face. “Absolutely, nothing.”
Zelda shivered. She suddenly felt so cold, and Ganondorf’s hand felt so hot as it trembled against her skin.
He drew it away. “Forgive me.”
A smile began in her eyes. “For what?”
“…I touched you.”
Zelda timidly grasped his hand, smiling shyly. “I shall never forgive you.”
His eyes sparkled and he gently kissed her hand. “Thank you.”
She stood and placed her empty plate on the glass table. “I need to make ready for the Sages. I hope the ones that come will be understanding.”
“Do not worry. I have faith in your ability to convince.” Said Ganondorf, still holding on to her hand.
She pulled at him. “Come, I need to tell my Sheikah. Although, I would not be surprised if Phantom already told them.”
“I cannot go with you! People will die of shock!” Cried Ganondorf, stopping quickly.
“You are right!…I have an idea…”
***
“Good morning, My lady.”
Zelda stopped and smiled. “Good morning, Master Eclipse.”
“…Who is your shadowy friend?” Asked Eclipse, nodding to the tall figure beside her, all cloaked in black.
“Oh! He is part of my new Sheikah guard.”
“Indeed.” Said Eclipse, eyeing the extremely tall and strongly muscled person, two traits that were not common to Sheikah.
“Yes.” She replied rather coldly, her eyes glittering sharply.
Eclipse shook his head, a smile in his eyes. “There is no need for that, I already have told the main group.”
“And what did they say?”
Still smiling, Eclipse bowed to her. “They said that they would only listen to you…I think they think I am going mad.”
“Do you think that they shall tell people?”
“As disbelieving as they are, they know not to tell anyone. That would start a panic.”
“A panic…” Sighed the tall figure.
“You knew this would not be easy.” Said Zelda, beckoning him to follow her.
“…But I had hoped it would not be so damned hard!” He stiffened. “Forgive me.”
Zelda snorted, the corner of her mouth turning up and continued walking toward the throne room. She looked calm, but was feeling worried about Ganondorf. ‘What if they attack him?’ She was startled to feel another emotion follow the worry. An unknown, strangely…warm emotion. ‘What…? No…it is not possible.’ She walked on, Eclipse falling in behind the cloaked Ganondorf.

***

As she approached the room, the first thing Zelda was aware of was the sound of muttering. ‘They sound slightly worried. Do they believe Eclipse, or is it just because they think he truly is losing his mind?’
“You are quite talkative this sunrise.” She said as she walked into the room. “Some strange gossip fluttering around?” As she spoke, she looked around the room. She would take no chances about anyone she was unsure of being in the room. ‘Good. Just the four and Enowa. That is plenty for now.’
“My Lady…” Said Fawqe, hesitantly glancing at Eclipse. “Master Eclipse…My Lady! What happened to your neck?!”
Zelda touched the bandage still about her neck. Eclipse had not healed it fully, for to heal it too quickly would leave a scar. “I was…mildly wounded. I shall tell you later. What of Master Eclipse?”
“He informed us that…an enemy of terrible power is in this castle.”
“…Indeed. And what is the name of this terrifying enemy?” Replied Zelda, standing in the center of the room, Ganondorf at her side, their backs to the Sheikah.
For a long moment, it seemed like no one would dare answer. Then Yenna said quietly: “The King of Evil…Ganondorf.”
Zelda smiled slightly, slowly turning to face them. “And where did you hear this interesting piece of news?”
All the heads turned toward Eclipse. “….Master Eclipse.”
“…He spoke the truth.” Said Zelda firmly.
They all stared at her in shock. “Milady?!”
She glanced at them all cooly. “Your moment has come…to prove to me how loyal you truly are.”
They all bowed, puzzled. “We shall try not fail you…By the Eye and the Triforce.”
“…Then trust me.” She whispered, then turned to the robed figure by her side. “Sir Ganondorf, please remove your hood.”
Hesitating only slightly, he did as he was bidden, and turned.
All of the Sheikah, with the exception of Eclipse, just stood there, their eyes wide. Yenna and Fawqe were the first to move. They summoned their Nacmars, of identical make, and took a fighting stance. “Step away from Lady Zelda!”
Ganondorf stood his ground. “I mean no harm.”
They sneered slightly. “To whom?”
“To Zelda, and anyone who is loyal to her.” He said, calmly.
“There cannot be anything more unture then that!” Shrieked, Yenna. “The blood of hundreds, including our parents’ is on your hands! Why the sudden change of action?!”
Ganondorf flinched and turned to Zelda. “I ask that you tell them. You are far more believable than me.”
Zelda told them all of it, quickly and honestly. Then stood quietly, waiting for their reaction.
“…You went into danger, without taking any of us!?”
Zelda laughed, it echoing gently in the large hall. “As you see, it is fortunate that Lord Ganondorf was there.”
As the Sheikahs glared at Ganondorf again, Zelda glanced at the magical clock on the wall. The sages would be there soon.
“Two of the Sages should be here any moment. Those who do not believe my tale and do not trust me, may go.”
That casual remark hit hard. They all flinched, then calmly took their places beside her throne. Eclipse flipped and fell upward, landing on the ceiling. Calmly standing there, he looked like a bat. Then, Enowa cautiously walked up to Ganondorf and studied him. It almost seemed funny, petite Enowa staring hard up at the tall figure with the impassive face. Then her features softened. “I believe you, Lady Zelda. Not only does he look different, I…can feel no threat from him.”
Zelda smiled at Enowa thankfully. “I am glad.”
Enowa’s eyes widened with alarm an Ganondorf grasped her hands. But, he did nothing but kneel in front of her and touch her hands to his forehead. “My thanks, child of the Gerudo.”
“That is an old Gerudo style, touching the hands to the forehead.” Said Enowa with wonder. “I have only seen that used in the most formal events.”
“I like to be respectful and formal at all possible times.” He said, releasing her hands with a small smile.
“How did you even know I was a Gerudo? Most cannot tell.” She asked, raising an eyebrow.
“True, our skin often looks alike. But the flame in your hair and the gold of your eyes betray your heritage.” He said giving a warmer smile.
“You are sly with words, Evil King. Know that my sister and I only trust you because Princess Zelda does.” Said Fawqe coldly.
Zelda had no time to glare at him as her senses were distracted. “The Sages are coming. Stand by the throne, Ganondorf. I must open the magical gateway.”
Walking down the white carpet, away from her throne, she raised her hands slightly and the carpet vanished. Stopping, she raised her arms above her head, her eyes glowing bright blue, light surrounding her form. Then, six different colored, ghostly platforms materialized out from the floor, growing more solid. Zelda stood back, waiting.
Two of the platforms began to glow. The one of Spirit, and the one of Shadow. Zelda winced slightly. Impa might understand, but Naburoo was strong-minded. Zelda was not sure how she would accept Ganondorf, having hated him before.
The two Sages slowly rose and solidified from the platforms. For a moment, they did not move, then they turned to face Zelda.
“My child…It is wonderful to see you safe.”
“Fine day, Princess Zelda. Where’s the kid?”
Zelda chuckled at first, hearing the name Naburoo had first called Link, during the Seven years of Darkness, then tears formed in her eyes.
Impa started forward. “Child! What is the matter?”
Zelda waved her hand as she turned back to her throne and two comfortable chairs appeared. “Please sit.”
Naburoo sat, but Impa was too uneasy, and waved her chair away. “Why is Link not here? He is in the castle, I can sense him.”
“Did something happen at the Seal?” Said Naburoo worriedly.
Zelda sat on her throne and avoided the Sages eyes. “…Too much.”
“…You did not answer my question, Zelda.”
Zelda turned to Impa and tried to tell as much as she could without putting Ganondorf in it.
“…A spirit, made purely of Evil, that had been in control of a different body for a long time, is now inside Link and controlling him.”
“Is it very strong?” Asked Naburoo anxiously.
“Terribly.”
“……Did you sense anything of Ganondorf?” Said Impa quietly.
‘Nayru, she knows!’ “Impa…”
“You are not lying…just delaying the truth. I always knew when you were telling me a falsehood when you were young.”
“You know me far too well, Impa.” She said, sighing.
“So. If I’ve followed correctly, Link is not here, he is off being bad somewhere. Right?” Asked Naburoo seriously.
“Yes.” Said Zelda, smiling in spite of herself.
“Zelda!” Gasped Impa.
Zelda turned with alarm. “What is wrong?”
“…Link must be here, for I sense another Triforce other than yours.”
“Ah, yes.” Said Zelda, rather timidly. She stood. “The rest of my fib must come out…Ganondorf?”
He stepped out from behind the throne and removed his cowl once more. “I stand before you in peace…!”
With a speed that brought gasps from the Sheikah fighters, Naburoo summoned her twin scimitars and leaped at Ganondorf with a snarl.
Ganondorf quickly raised a shield with the power of his Triforce, but before the first scimitar hit it, it struck another sheild. One that glowed a faint blue.
Zelda was not even looking at the shield she had put up. “You shall hear me out, Sages.” She said firmly, now resonating a regal presence as she stood rigidly straight.
“You’re crazy, Zelda! Do you know who you’re protecting?! The man who killed your father!” Shrieked Naburoo.
Zelda felt her heart stop for a moment. She had dreaded that the Sages would bring up this painful remark. “Ganondorf was not responsible for my father’s death. I could tell it was from age.”
“But you also know that the stress of the Dark Blight must have had something to do with it! Not to mention the betrayal of the man he believed loyal to him!”
Tears trailed down Zelda’s cheeks as she was unable to hide a sob. “…You…you shall hear me out, Sages.” She heard Ganondorf gasp slightly with surprise behind her.
“Damn it all Zelda! He must have control of your mind! You…”
“SILENCE, NABUROO!” Shouted Impa coldly. A wave of power was woven into her words, and everyone present fell silent under the power of her Shadowvoice. “You have no right to speak so boldly against the Seventh of us! Even though I agree with you on a few points, I cannot have you upsetting the Princess like this…My child.” She murmured softly, kneeling at Zelda‘s feet. “I am listening.”
Her heart too torn with pain to do anything else, Zelda touched Impa’s head and showed her memories from yesterday. From her unstable teleporting, to Ganondorf rescuing her from the ReDeads. She was relieved to feel Naburoo enter her mind too.
Finally, she felt both Sages withdraw. “So, Ganondorf was the previous body that the evil spirit controlled.”
Naburoo removed her blade from the shield and glared at Ganondorf. “You could not stop the spirit?”
Ganondorf, who did not flinch as their almost identical golden gazes met, replied calmly in a voice full of withheld pain. “I could only watch as he slaughtered hundreds…I could only listen as the hundreds cursed my name before I slaughtered them…I could only weep, deep in my mind as a most cunning and evil puppetier gleefully moved his unwilling puppet.”
Impa stood and studied him, her eyes wide. “I can hear you speak the truth…But, I can barely believe it.”
He shuddered. “I can hear myself speak, but feel as though it is not the truth.” He walked down and gently grasped Zelda’s shoulders and turned her to face him. Naburoo was tense, but her mouth fell open as Ganondorf quietly brushed away some of Zelda’s tears and knelt at her feet, bowing his head. “If you see it fit that I die, I shall be the first to agree with you.” He said hoarsely.
“…No, Ganondorf.” She said, breathing more steadly. “I have yet to tell them of your plan.”
Ganondorf sighed, and Zelda knew it was not from relief.
“What plan, Zelda?”
Zelda walked up to throne and sat wearily and Ganondorf walked to and knelt by her side. “A magical weapon that can probably destroy the evil spirit. Ganondorf thought of it last night.”
Naburoo sat, and Impa summoned back her chair and sat also. “What type of magical weapon?”
Ganondorf spoke. “An arrow made of condensed light, power, love and good. If such a thing reached Link’s heart, it would kill Evil.”
“Wouldn’t it kill Link too?” Asked Naburoo, sarcastically.
“The arrow would be made of good…Link is still truly good underneath the spirit. The wound would heal instantly.” Replied Ganondorf coolly.
“…How soon would you need this arrow?”
“By tomorrow. I need to strike while the spirit is still weak from Zelda’s magic.”
For a long moment, no one said anything, then Impa stood. “I believe you. I shall tell the other Sages about this, but there is one thing we have not considered. A bow! To shoot such a powerful arrow, we shall need a bow of special magic. There is no possible way that we can create such an arrow and a bow by tomorrow!”
Ganondorf’s brow furrowed as he thought for awhile. Then his head snapped up. “Fairies! The three Fairies of the Goddesses. They would be able to construct a bow easily!”
Impa blinked, then grinned. “You seem to have a solution to every problem, Sir Ganondorf. I will call and tell the Fairies what has transpired.” She stood and walked to the center of the room. “Don’t take too long trying to trust him, Naburoo. I myself do not fully trust him, but so far all he has said sounds correct and helpful.”
Impa vanished, leaveing Naburoo glareing at Ganondorf. She also stood. “I trust you less than Impa does. But, I know action is needed right now. So, I’ll search your mind later.”
She walked over to her platform and faced Zelda. “Be careful around him, Princess. You should not trust him anymore then we do.” She then faded from view and all the platforms then sank back into the floor, causing the white carpet to appear again.
Zelda kept staring where Naburoo had stood. “I know I should not…yet I still do.”

** A/N Okay, I've taken you all quite a ways. Now it's time for those reviews. I NEED THEM. As some of you may have guessed, this is going to be a Ganondorf/Zelda pairing. Although I have a good deal more to put up, there is no lemon written yet (I've never written one, but I'd like to try.) I want to see what my readers desire. Let me know by reviews or email! Angel Lich **