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blushweddinggowns · 1 year

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Part 2

Robin Buckley was unfortunately well-aware of Steve Harrington, long before they started working together. He had been the worst kind of popular in high school, the completely effortless kind. And Robin was not looking forward to working with him.

Sure, he had been better than the other jock dickheads Robin was forced to share space with, but that probably had more to do with his weird Eddie Munson friendship than anything else. Being friends with the town freak kind of forced you to be more accepting. Or in Steve’s case, force you to punch anyone who insulted him in the face.

And while that was all nice and chivlirous or whatever it didn’t stop the fact that Steve Harringinton was a complete ass who slept with dozens of girls and threw them away immmeidtly after. There was no way that a guy like that wasn’t a dick.

And after their first shift working together, Robin was convinced that she had been absolutely right. He was a total slouch at work, spending most of his time failing at flirting with girls or yapping to his friends on the phone in the back. He was a complete diva about his hair, and their manager had given him three reprimands in the span of four hours for not wearing the dumb hat. And he was always trying to get out of work early.

After their first week together Robin was ready to strangle him. The only thing she’d give him is that he accepted being assigned indefinite bathroom cleaning duty with grace, otherwise she probably would have killed him and hid the body in the freezer by now.

Though he was really trying to expedite the process over here.

It was another annoying, Harrington filled day, only for him to once again try and leave early.

But before he could get to the door, Robin was dragging him back behind the counter, hissing, “Where the hell do you think you’re going? We have inventory tonight.”

She had expected him to whine in response or maybe say something dickish that she could kick him in the shin for, but he just looked horrified.

“Tonight? B-But it won’t take that long right? Like just a few minutes?”

“Try a few hours. They’re making us count the spoons man. You’re not going anywhere anytime soon.”

His eyes got wider with each word, and for a split second Robin was actually worried that he was about to have a panic attack. That was until he opened his mouth again, “I-okay. Look dude, I really can’t do this tonight. I have a thing that I need to go to. But I can make it up to you! Or I can come in tomorrow morning-”

“The manager is going to look at it tomorrow morning,” Robin interrupted, arms crossed and brow twitching, “What is so damn important that it can’t wait till tomorrowow?”

“Does that matter?” Steve asked, oddly defensive for someone who was literally begging, “I just need to leave. But I can make it up to you! I’ll even pay you. You can have all the tips for the week and if that’s not enough then I’ll do the trash for three-no four days. I’ll do anything. Please?”

He actually looked like he was on the edge of tears and Robin had to begrudgingly admit that the puppy eyes were working on her. Christ, she was too good of a person.

She sighed, “Trash duty for two weeks, and for the week I get the tips I expect you to be extra charming. We clear?”

“Yes! Totally fair!” Steve was already speed walking backwards to the door, and those misty eyes had suddenly completely disappeared. Robin was started to think that she just got played and big time, “Best co-worker ever! Really couldn’t ask for better-”

“Just fucking go.” Robin said as she shooed him off, near snorting when Steve actually started running out of the mall.

She looked back behind the counter, groaning when she realized that his trash promise apparently started tomorrow. Fucking dick. She’d take out the trash, do inventroy alone, and then curse the Harrington name.

She started to lug the disgusting trash bags full of soupy ice cream through the backdoor, shivering a little in the cold. The dumpster was right next to the almost empty parking lot, everyone gone except one long running van.

Robin stopped, realziing that two people were making out infront of it, and one of them just so happened to still be wearing his cutsy uniform while he shoved his tongue down the stranger’s throat. Robin stared at them, barely concealed by the dumpster as her blood boiled.

Steve ditched her to make-out with some chick in the parking lot? Oh hell no. He was not getting away with this. She was just about to come out of her hiding spot to start tearing into him when she heard Steve giggle. Honest to god giggle.

He was standing in front of the girl, obscuring her face while he played with a lock of her hair, “Aw, don’t pout. I didn’t make the schedule. Besides, I already said I’d make it up to you in any way you want.”

Robin rolled her eyes, wondering if she should include warning the poor girl that whatever two week anniversary they were celebrating would definitely be their last when she called him out.

“I just didn’t expect to spend most of our four year anniversary eating cake in bed alone,” The stranger answered, their voice instantly recongnizble, “I was supposed to be eating you.”

That wasn’t a chick, that was Eddie.

Robin gasped, a hand going over her mouth. She had heard that voice many times, usually yelling about comforimity while standing on a lunch table. But that didn’t make sense! It couldn’t be-

But then Eddie was spinning them around, crowding Steve against the hood of his car, his signature DIO vest on full display while he ploundered Steve’s mouth, Steve laughing into it all the while.

Robin felt like her brain was short-circuiting as she watched them. She was actually witnessing Steve Harrington happily shoving his tongue down Eddie Munson’s throat.

Steve pulled away first, holding Eddie back with a hand to his chest, still giggling, “God, that was so lame. Even for you.”

“You love it.”

“I do,” Steve easily agreed, “And I’ll love it even more when we’re home and in bed. Then we can really start celebrating.”

That was more than enough for Eddie. He dragged Steve off of the hood before opening the passenger side door for him, stealing one more kiss before running over to the driver’s side.

Robin watched as they settled into the van, hands immediately clasped back together over the centerconsole. But it didn’t stop there. No, Steve was licking his lips and looking down muttering something to Eddie that she couldn’t hear. But she could guess, especially when his head suddenly dissapeared right before they drove off.

Robin stayed hidden behind the dumpster, still trying to comprehend what she’d just seen. She just watched King Steve make out with the resident freak, and maybe start the beginnings of road head, all while giggling and laughing about their fucking anniversy.

What. The. Fuck.

From an unpublished chapter of this fic

#secret relationship steddie #steddie #steddie ficlet #steddie fic #eddie munson #robin buckley #steve harrington #the universe trapped in your skin #this is straight from my childhood au fic for 85 #might do a part 2 here though #because the fic is NOWHERE near this part but it's technically written #stranger things

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suzubelle-chan · 5 years

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A Cass/Ralnor Childhood Romance Au: Someday, Someplace Prologue

Hello there! First off huge shout out to @s-kinnaly, @ridersoftheapocalypse, @mrneighbourlove for creating these characters and letting me use them for this story! The title says everything you need to know-this will be a fic about Cass and Ralnor, falling in love when they are kids and watching that love and the two of them change and grow over the years. There won’t be any monsters or Big Bad to slay, but there will some angst and drama later on. Right now, however, the fic will be like 85-90% fluff. I’ll warn you when the time comes, but that won’t be for long while-given how I write. Sorry, just wanted to get this out of the way first. Now onto the fic.

Someday, Someplace Prologue A Prince’s Day, A Merchant’s Night

The royal family of Hyrule was having a wonderful lunch together, sitting around a low table as they ate and talked. Until Zelda opened her mouth and said, “Alright children let’s go over your lessons for the rest of the day.”

The room filled with groans in high pitched tones.

"Aw, Mama do we have to?" Covarog asked.

“Can’t we stay with you and Papa and Tebanam?” Kanisa asked, clinging to her father’s side.

“While I do wish we could spend more time together, you do need to go to your lessons," Ganondorf stated, stroking her head.

“Are you sure we can’t stay with you a little longer?” Ralnor asked.

“I’m sorry dears, lessons come first,” Zelda responded.

“Then can we at least take Teb with us? He’s probably really lonely…” Orana stated.

Said four-year-old was currently grabbing bits of rice and stuffing into his mouth, at the mention of his name he stopped and looked at his sister, let out a squeak.

“Teb is a little too little to go to lessons yet. Next year he will and you can help him.” Zelda replied.

The princess pouted and crossed her arms.

“Now back to your lessons,” Zelda stated, wiping her mouth with a handkerchief. “We have Science with Ms. Isley.”

“Yes!” Orana and Ralnor cheered.

“Combat Practice with Klinge.” Zelda continued.

“Yay!” All of the children exclaimed.

“And finally, your etiquette lessons with Mr. Corum.”

Now all the children groaned.

“Why Mama why?” Covarog moaned.

“Do we have to? He’s the worst!” Kanisa argued.

“His lessons are terrible!” Ralnor offered.

The queen sighed, “I know that Mr. Corum lessons may not be a fun class.”

“Mama, they are the opposite of fun. Like the opposite side of the world to fun.” Orana stated.

“Plus, he always makes us sit up so straight my back hurts,” Covarog whined.

“Well maybe if you always sat up straight it wouldn’t always feel so bad,” Zelda commented.

The children huffed all together in response.

“Trust me dears, I had to go through the same lessons when I was your age. It is important as royalty that we have the best manners so no one thinks we are rude. Once you learn all you need to know, then it will be easier and you won’t have any lessons like this,” Zelda replied.

Ralnor glanced at his father, now holding Tebanam trying to wipe the corners of his mouth, and stated, “Papa didn’t have to go through these lessons when he was little and he’s royalty.”

The king smiled, gazing at his son affectionately but when he caught his wife glaring, he stopped. “Well that is true, but I wasn’t born a royal. So, when I married your mother, she gave me all kinds of lessons about manners.”

“Were they boring?” Covarog asked.

“The absolute most boring things I sat through. But now I’m on the other side and no longer have to do those lessons.” He patted the children’s heads. “You will be too. Just smile, do as your teacher asked, practiced and soon no more manner lessons.”

All the children listened, wide-eyed. "Really?"

“Yes, but that won’t be today. So, get to your lessons. At least the sooner you get to lessons, the sooner they will be over.” The king stated. “Now off you go. Your escort is waiting for you outside the room.

“Okay!” They all cheered and gave their parents one hug before heading out.

“Why is it they always listen to you?” Zelda wondered.

Ganondorf beamed, puffing out his chest. “I just know what to say.”

“Besides lying about those lessons,” she mentioned.

“You did teach how to use silverware a couple of times. Longest dinners of my life. Of any life really. Same thing.”

Zelda rolled her eyes, "Yes dear. Of course, they were."

The children’s eyes followed as Professor Isley as walked in front of their desks, her green robes pooling around her body. Her emerald eyes shone brightly as she continued on her lesson. She flicked off one of her red curls from her face as she asked, “Okay, Prince Covarog please tell me about the food chain.” A young woman asked, a piece of chalk in

Covarog stared at Professor Isley. “Um…the food chain is who-eats-who in nature. Plants are eaten by animals and other animals eat them.”

“A rather good summarization, but I would like more details. Would anyone else like to expand on Covarog’s explanation?”

“Well the animals that eat other animals are called predators and the animals that get eaten are called prey,” Kanisa commented.

“That’s very good, your highness. Does anyone else have anything to add?”

Ralnor raised his hand and Isley called on him, “Plants in a food chain are also called producers because they can make their food from sunlight and water. Animals are consumers because they need to eat others for food.”

“Excellent as always Ralnor! Just what I was looking for!” The woman gushed.

“Thank you, ma’am.” The boy smiled.

The woman flipped over her chalkboard, now displaying a large number of animals and plants, connected to each other by a series of arrows. “Now food webs are an interconnected food chain. Take a good look at the chart and tell me what that means.”

The children stared. Covarog tilted and scratched his head. Orana’s head bobbed up and down. Kanisa continued to stare with a frown. Ralnor looked all over the board and then shot up his hand.

The teacher nodded and the boy spoke, “It means that some animals are eaten by more than one kind of animals. Like in the chart, bunnies are eaten by snakes and foxes.”

“Very good Ralnor.”

“But then why are all the arrows pointing up?” Covarog asked. “Shouldn’t they be pointing down to show who eats who?”

“Very good observation your highness. Does anybody have any ideas?”

Ralnor once again raised his hand and the professor called on him. “It’s because it shows how energy flows from producers to consumers and from one consumer to another.”

“Excellent!”

Orana sighed, “This class is sad.”

“What makes it say that?” the teacher asked.

“Well look at those poor birdies and bunnies! They get eaten up by so many other animals!”

“While it is sad that some animals are eaten, it is a part of life. If there were no predators, then all the birds and bunnies would eat all their food, and then they would get hungry. This way this keeps balance. And don’t worry, there will always be more birdies and bunnies then predators.”

“Why is that?” Orana asked.

“It’s just how nature balances out to make sure there are still animals,” responded Isley.

“What about plants? Will there always be plants?” Ralnor asked.

“Why yes,” the teacher smiled. “As long as they have soil and water, plants will always survive. Why do you ask?”

“Well birds and bunnies can run away from predators, but plants can’t move. They are just stuck in the ground by their roots. I just really like plants and I would hate to see them all go.”

Isley smiled, “You truly possess a wonderful mind. While it is true that many plants are defenseless to being eaten, there are some plants have defenses that stop animals from eating them.”

“There are plants can defend themselves?” Ralnor asked, incuriously.

"Yes, some plants will have certain attributes that make animals wary or incapable of eating them. Some plants produce spikes that hurt whoever tries to eat them."

“Is that why the roses in the garden have thorns?” Kanisa asked.

“Or why cacti have their sharp spines?” Orana asked.

“Indeed. Other plants produce liquids that will make animals sick or even kill them if they eat them. Those are known as poisonous plants.”

The prince let out a soft, “Whoa…”

“Whoa indeed. So, it very important to not eat any unfamiliar plants-whether they are berries, roots, or leaves unless an expert tells you it’s okay.

Orana raised her hand and asked, “Is it possible that broccoli is poisonous?”

“No why do you ask?” the teacher replied.

“Because it tastes so bad. How can something like that not make you sick?”

The whole classroom giggled.

“While some plants don’t have the best tastes, they are not poisonous.”

“Mama didn’t pay you to say that, did she?” Ralnor asked.

The teacher laughed again, wiping a tear from your eye. “No again. You little smart-alec you. Now it’s time for all of you to head to your other lessons.”

“Okay,” the children grabbed their books and papers.

Ralnor walked over to the teacher and tugged at her skirt. "Excuse me, Ms. Isley, could you teach us more about poisonous plants?”

“We’ll have to see, but I am very pleased about your curiosity. Never lose that." She stated, tapping his mind.

The boy stared a bit, eyes wide, a bit confused.

“Hey Ralnor, let’s go!” Covarog called out.

“Okay! Goodbye Ms. Isley,” the boy stated and ran off after his brother.

The children took several steps outside the classroom before Covarog paused. “Wait we forgot Del!”

The rest of the pack stopped a few steps before him.

“Who?” Orana asked.

“Our guard for the day, you know, the guy that follows us around the castle for our lessons,” the eldest prince explained.

“Oh yeah!” Orana said.

“Actually, I kind of forget about them after a while,” Ralnor admitted. “So, where is he?”

Kanisa dashed over to the room, peaked inside and giggled, “Found him.”

The rest of the children followed and started to laugh at the sight. Dell sat there at the back of the class in a chair, his tongue hanging out and head tilted, perched on his hand. His eyes followed the teacher as she rubbed to board clean.

Covarog walked over to the knight and knocked on his leg, “Mr. Dell, it’s time to go.”

The soldier didn’t even notice, just sighing and switching hands.

The rest of the siblings joined their brother, gathering around the man. “Oh boy, this one has got it bad,” Kanisa commented.

“I don’t know how we are going to get him out of it," Orana said.

“Me neither, but I do know one thing,” Ralnor said as he looked away from the man.

“What?” Covarog asked.

“Duck!” he hollered and lowered himself.

His siblings turned their heads and quickly ducked too. However, the knight just stared affectionately unaware until it was too late. A chalk eraser smacked him right in the head, causing him to fall over. After a few moments of watching the stars above his head, he quickly dashed off.

The children rose and stared at their teacher, some of her red locks out of the bun, arm stretched out in front of her.

“Sorry,” Ralnor stated.

“It’s not your fault, young prince,” The woman sighed, pulling her locks back into her bun. “Just once I wish your father would find one guard that wouldn’t drool over me.”

“It’ll get better once Ima comes back from her vacation,” Kanisa said.

The teacher sighed, “I do hope she comes back soon. Now I think it’s best for you to go to your next lesson. Especially, since your guard has probably already left the building.”

The kids agreed and left the room. As they walked out, Ralnor commented, “We lose a lot of guards this way.

Now outside, each with a wooden stool, the children waited. They all stood as straight as they could for the guard before them. As all as their papa, Klinge strolled back and forth, his armor gleaming in the sun. He watched with discerning eyes.

“So, tell me, children, what is one of the most important rules in fighting?" the guard asked.

"Keep your stance wide, body lowered," Covarog answered.

"Always protect your face," Ralnor replied.

“Strength comes from the breath not the muscles,” Orana declared.

“Um… That strength isn’t all that matters in a fight. If you just take a second look, then maybe you see there’s another way,” Kanisa squeaked out.

“All good ideas children,” he stated. “Why did you remember those lessons in particular?”

The children blinked for a bit. Ralnor answered first, “Because you said that if we get hit in the face, then we could be knock out and our opponent could really hurt us.”

“Excellent memory, young one.” The knight commented. “Now how about the rest of you?”

“I remember how you said that you have to keep breathing or else your muscles get tired more quickly and you lose strength,” Orana declared. “So, then you can’t hit your opponents hard.

Covarog replied, “I thought of it because if you stand like that, it’s harder for your opponent to knock us off your feet. It’s hard to fight while on the ground.”

Kanisa messed with her feet, “Um…you said that you didn’t have to be the strongest to win the fight. Sometimes thinking how you would hit your opponent could important as how hard you hit them. I really liked it that thought so I remembered it.”

The Darknut hummed, “All good answers. Now onto the lesson,” the man turned away from the children. The princes and princesses waited for the next words, but he remained silent. The heirs just stared at his back.

“Um…Uncle Klinge?” Kanisa squeaked out.

The man roared and swung his blade at the children. Covarog and Orana braced themselves with their swords, close to them. Ralnor held the blade out in his outstretched arms. Kanisa held her blade with only one hand and shielded her face with the other.

Klinge just stopped a few inches away from the wood. Then he set the sword on his shoulder. “Pretty good response. But you will need to work on your guarding skills.”

“What?” Ralnor asked.

“Uncle Klinge you really scared us!” Kanisa stated, hands on hips as she stomped.

“Ha! I wasn’t scared!” Orana stated.

"Your knees are shaking," Covarog mentioned.

Orana pouted and gave her older brother a light punch.

“What was that for?” Ralnor asked.

"When learning how to fight, you must learn how to protect yourself from any attacks," Klinge stated. “You could be attacked at any time. You must be prepared to defend yourselves. Covarog, Orana, good response. Just need to work angling your weapons for utmost protection. Ralnor you need to keep your weapon close to you for best defense. Kanisa you need to make sure to actually defend yourself. We will keep doing this until you have a proper defensive stance.” He then let out another roar.

After about two hours, the Darknut let down his sword, “Alright, that’s enough for today. Remember children that you need to always be alert. Always ready to strike.”

“Yes sir,” the kids agreed. Sweat covered all over their bodies, but their smiles streached across their faces. Klinge’s lessons were one of the toughest they had, but they were always exciting.

“Especially you Kanisa.”

The youngest princess flinched and nodded. "Yes, sir."

The man sighed, kneeling to the ground and patted her head. “Child, please know that I am tough on you only because I want to make sure that you are ready to fight.”

“I don’t really want to fight people…” the princess replied.

“I know, you don’t. But doesn’t mean there will not people or monster that want to fight you. And they won’t take no for answer.” The knight stood up tall. “I wish I could protect you, all of you, all the time. But I can’t. So, I want to make sure you can defend yourself.”

“I understand Uncle Klinge. I’m sorry I’m so scared,” Kanisa replied.

“It’s alright. It’s only natural to feel that way when attacked. However, you can’t let your emotions control you in a fight. I know you will be a great fighter someday.”

Kanisa let out a small smile before looking down at the ground again.

Covarog stood there for a moment and suggested, “Maybe there’s a different way to test our reflexes?”

“What?” Klinge asked.

“You want to be able to hit anyone that comes at us in any direction, right? So, what if there’s a way to do that without you scaring us so much?” Covarog offered.

"That is an interesting thought…What do you suggest prince?"

“Um…honestly that’s as far as I got,” The eldest admitted.

Ralnor glanced and asked, “How about you throw something at us, and we try to avoid it?”

“What?” Orana asked.

“Well I mean, if you could throw something at us, from all around, then we would get better at blocking something all around. I don’t know what, but I think that might work.” Ralnor offered.

“That sounds great!” Covarog stated.

“That does sound like a rather interesting concept.” The Darknut admitted. “But I’m not sure what we could use.”

“How about balls? I mean if they are small and not that hard.” Orana offered.

“That’s perfect!” Ralnor exclaimed. “Plus, we could try to hit the balls with our swords so we can better at those too.”

“That would be an ideal object,” the knight agreed. He then looked at Kanisa, “What do you think?”

The princess glanced up in her thoughts before replying, “It doesn’t sound so bad. As long as the balls are not too hard.”

“I’ll see what I can do, however, I may throw them as hard as you can," the dark nut stated. "You have to prepare for all kinds of attacks."

"I wouldn't do that if I were you," Orana stated.

“Why not?” Klinge suggested.

“Well if you hit us, you’d break a bone. And if you miss us, you’d break a window or wall or something. Do you really want Mama and Papa to yell at you for that?”

The children chuckled and after a few moments, the knight joined. “I suppose you are right. I’ll try going easy on you for now.”

"Thank you, Uncle Klinge," Kanisa smiled. And wrapped her arms around as much of the man as she could. Her siblings joined in and the knight returned the embrace.

“Alright children, now time for you to go to your next lesson,” Klinge commented.

All of the kids groaned.

“No Uncle Klinge can’t we stay with you?” Kanisa pleaded.

“We…wanna do more training!” Ralnor declared.

“Come on, just a few more minutes?” Covarog questioned.

All of the children’s eyes grew extremely wide, like a bunch of puppies looking up at hopeful owners.

The man rubbed his chin, “I’m assuming that this next lesson is with Mr. Corum.”

Orana groaned, “Yes! He is the worst!”

“While I do agree that Corum can be disagreeable, it is important for you to learn your manners too.”

“Even more important to defend ourselves?” Ralnor pondered, a light tone to his voice.

The knight smirked, “I see what you are doing and they are of equal importance. You have great intelligence Ralnor, you need to learn to use it all situations. Not just trying to flattering your teachers. Now children go.”

The children let out one last sigh and hug before heading to the last class.

When they approached an oak door, a sense of dread filled the air. Covarog swallowed. Ralnor glared. Kanisa shivered and Orana placed an arm around her, despite her shaking hands.

“It’s only for a few hours. Then we won’t have to see him for a few days.” Covarog stated.

"You always say that," Orana said.

“But it’s true.” The eldest prince stated.

“Remember what Mama said about meanies, just smile and agree until they leave?” Kanisa suggested.

"Good idea," Ralnor stated.

"But I bet he'll find something wrong with those too," Orana stated.

“Well, we can’t wait out here forever. He’ll yell at us for being late.” Covarog stated and knocked on the door, "It's us, Mr. Corum. We are here for our lesson.”

“Come on,” a deep voice boomed.

The eldest opened the door, revealing a short man with a thick black mustache and pointed ears waiting in front of a desk. His black robes swished as he walked to the kids. He stopped right before them, pointing his ruler right at Covarog's nose. “None of you are on time,” he declared.

Ralnor glanced over his brother’s shoulders to the grandfather that ticked and tocked loud enough for the children to hear. “But sir we are two minutes early,” he argued.

“You must be on time, your highnesses. If you are late, you will appear sloppy to your hosts. If you are early then you are inconveniencing them by not giving them enough time. Now come, we are discussing ball etiquette today.

The children glanced at each, exasperated. Mr. Corum’s lessons were always long. This one would probably the longest yet.

After an eternity or about two hours, the children had droned into their heads all about proper attire, table manners, and almost everything and anything nobody really wanted to know about balls.

“Now as the ball commences, what will you be doing?” Corum asked, pointing at the crown prince with a ruler.

“I will be mingling with nobles and dancing with the young ladies?” the prince answered.

“While your confidence makes me worry about this kingdom, your answer is correct.”

The prince crouched down in his seat.

“Sit up straight!” He bellowed, rapping the desk with his ruler.

All of the children jumped as they sat up straighter than ever.

“Now as you hopefully know there are several dances performed in succession at the ball....”

Ralnor scratched feverously at his notes trying to get as much down. The teacher stopped for a moment and the boy took a moment to breathe. He glanced away for a moment to see what made the teacher stopped. His heart stopped when he saw Kanisa’s hand raised, shaking but her eyes looked determined.

Corum raised his brow. “Finally, some willing participation from you. What is it you would like to say, young lady?"

“I was wondering, if it would be alright, I dance for people at the ball?” the princess wondered.

“What?” the teacher asked.

“Papa told me that when Gerudo have guests, especially foreign ones, often a princess would dance for them. I mean, it won't happen until I'm all grown up, but do you think it would be alright?" Kanisa wondered.

The man sneered, “While I do appreciate you trying to be involved, your…dancing would never be suitable for a ball.”

“Not even if I practiced really hard?” she asked, eyes watering.

“It is not your technique the people would find vulgar, it is the dancing yourself. Twirling around in revealing clothing, it is unseemly for a Hylian princess. Everyone would laugh at you and your family. It would be best to keep your Gerudo customs as far away from the court as you can.”

Kanisa eyes now filled with tears, but she looked up at the teacher, “Alright sire. Thank you for answering my question.

“Yes, well back to the lesson,” the man stated and turned his back on his students.

Orana stood there, mouth opened wide. Covarog glared at him, fists clenched. For a moment, it looked like they would yell at their teacher. With a screech on the tile, one chair parted as its owner stood up. But no one could believe who it was. Ralnor, completely red in the face, hollered, “Why can’t she dance?”

The man turned around, “What?”

The boy stomped, “Kanisa said the Gerudo used to this for all foreign visitors. That includes Hylians too. And they liked it then. Why wouldn’t they like it now?”

“Because that kind of dancing is not proper for a Hylian princess, as I’ve said.” The teacher reiterated.

“But Kanisa is also a Gerudo princess too. So, shouldn’t she also follow Gerudo traditions too? Why should act like she’s not Gerudo when she is?”

“Ralnor I always thought you were the most…civil of your siblings. Please don’t break that thought.”

“I don’t care about what you think about me! You shouldn’t be mean to my little sister, or anyone because they are Gerudo.”

The man squared his shoulders and pointed at the prince, “You boy, should be a good prince and be quiet and content that you have the life you have. As nothing more than a second-born prince, you won’t be much use to the kingdom so at least learn to behave as to not embarrass Hyrule.

The boy slumped his shoulders, dropping his jaw. He squeaked out a soft, “What?”

"Hey, you can't talk to my little brother that way!" Covarog roared

“Stop picking on my family!’ Orana bellowed.

“Now see here you-” The man retorted before loud gonging cut him off. Everyone glanced to see the clock tower, longhand at twelve. He let out a huff, “Well looks like class is over for the day. But don’t think I won’t remember this. I’ll alert your parents of this unruly behavior. And you will receive extra homework, not only do I want a three-page paper on the dos and don’ts of proper ball behavior, I want a four-page paper of what one should expect at a ball's meal, along with complete coverage of manners of the ball, which utensil to use when, how to excuse yourself, proper points of discussion and more.”

“Aw!” the children grumbled.

“Silence. Or else I’ll give you an extra assignment on the proper dress and I will want to you detail every piece down to the stitching on the socks and every button. Now out!”

The children quickly scurried out of the room. The man turned his back out of the room, grumbling. Orana made a quick trip back and stuck her tongue, complete with raspberry sound. However, Ralnor pulled her out of the doorway before the man whipped around to see an empty frame.

Once they made their way to their parent’s office, Zelda stood there before her desk giving one of her famous glares to the children, arms crossed. Ganondorf knelt to the side with Tebanam as he played with some blocks in the corner. Zelda started, “While I do know that you don’t care much for Mr. Corum’s lessons, your behavior today was inexcusable. Disrupting a lesson, talking back to a teacher, I know you are all young but you really need to learn how to behave.”

Ganondorf walked over and placed his hand on her shoulder, “Now dear. It’s true its not their favorite class, but our children wouldn’t do anything like this without reason. The rest of the tutors give glowing praises about the children’s actions” he gave a quick glance at Orana, “Most of the time.”

“Hey!” Orana shouted.

There was a slight giggle in the room but Zelda’s glare stopped it.

“It wouldn’t be like them if all of them were acted up. There has to be a reason. Let the children speak,” Ganondorf explained.

Ralnor took a deep breath and opened his mouth but Kanisa declared, “It’s all my fault!”

Everyone stared at the little princess. “Kanisa?” Zelda asked.

“I asked Mr. Corum if I could dance at the ball when I’m older Gerudo style like Papa said his daughters used to for his guests. But Mr. Corum said it wouldn't be appropriate for a Hylian princess. I accepted it, but Ralnor didn’t and got mad at him. And the two of them started fighting. And then Covarog and Cass got mad and yelled too. And that’s when Corum got angry and gave us homework. It’s all my fault, I should never have asked my question. I’m sorry.”

"No!" Ralnor yelled. "I'm the one who got into a fight with Mr. Corum. I couldn't understand why he didn't want Kanisa to dance Gerudo style because she was a Hylian princess. I mean she's a Gerudo princess too, and Corum is supposed to teach us all about traditions, right? Why shouldn’t she dance like a Gerudo if she’s Gerudo too.”

“And when Ralnor asked these questions,” Covarog interjected, “He said some weird things to Ralnor, so I got mad.”

“So, did I-we couldn’t take what he said anymore!” Orana declared.

“Wait wait wait a moment-what did Corum say to you Ralnor?” the mother asked.

Ralnor took a deep breath and answered, “Well he said I was nothing more than a second-born prince, that I won’t be useful to Hyrule, and I should work hard to not embarrass it.” He looked up to his parents, his big teal eyes wider than ever and asked, “What did he mean?

Zelda knelt down and hugged him tightly for a moment before looking him in the eye. “Ralnor none of that is true. Well, you are second born prince. But you are more than that. You are smart, kind, curious, and your papa and I love you so very much. We wouldn’t change”

The boy returned the hug and then let go. He smiled for a moment, “But what about me being useful?”

“Uh well…you see…” Zelda started.

Now Ganondorf joined his wife on his knees, now taking his hands. “My son,” he started. "What Corum say is true to a point. Because Covarog will be king, lots of people will want to talk with him: the nobles, foreign visitors, the commoners. So much that they might ignore you in order to be with him. And there will be a time when Mama and I will be focused on your brother so we can teach him how to be king.” He squeezed the little hands, “However, let me tell you this, your mama is right. We love you just as much as we love Covarog. Perhaps the court may not see it, but the people who truly love you will and love you for it.”

Ralnor stared wide-eyed at his papa, “Uh…”

The king smiled, “It is alright you don’t understand now. Just know that Mama, Papa, Ima, Klinge, and your siblings love you and that’s all that matters.”

“Okay,” the boy said brightly. He hugged his father who eagerly returned the embrace. Zelda, Covarog, Orana, and Kanisa joined in. Tebanam noticed the group and wrapped as much as his little arm could on the family group.

Zelda broke up the hug, stood up and cleared her throat, “Well now that I understand why you acted up in class. This time it’s excusable, but I do hope you will try to refrain from yelling at your teachers from now on.”

“Yes mama,” Covarog, Ralnor, and Kanisa agreed.

“Unless they start it?” Orana asked.

Zelda put her hands on her hips, “Under any circumstances, young lady.”

Orana nervously smiled, “Okay mama.”

“And now that’s settled,” Ganondorf stated as he rose up, “We can start discussing important things.”

“Like what?” Ralnor asked.

“Like which stalls you really want to see when we go out tomorrow to look over preparations for Daourfel,” Ganondorf announced.

The children cheered and squealed. Tebanam clapped his hands and yelled along with his siblings.

“I wanna look at the animal stalls!” Orana declared.

“Can we please go to the book stalls?” Ralnor said.

“Please? Please? Please, Papa, we've got to see books!” Kanisa asked.

“Toys too please!” Covarog asked.

“Toys please!” Tebanam repeated.

“Alright! Alright!” the king chuckled. “We will talk about it and make a plan. Now go and wash up for dinner.”

The kids scrambled over to the washroom, Kanisa leading Tebanam by holding his hand. Just as Ganondorf was about to follow, Zelda caught him by the hand. She leaned into his large figure, wrapping her arms around as much of his waist as she could. “Thank you. You really do know what to say to make the kids feel better.”

“I do my best.” He stated, wrapping an arm around his wife. “You too said the truth. I just hope that when the time comes, he really understands what I am saying.”

“It’s just a matter of time before he grasps it. He’s a smart kid. They all are,” Zelda stated.

“That they get from you dear,” Ganondorf beamed.

“Flatterer,” she smirked.

The king bent leaned into each other when there was a loud splash and a series of "Uh-ohs.” And the parents sighed.

“Never a calm moment with the children around,” Zelda sighed.

“At least it’s not dull,” he stated.

The parents smiled at each other, gave a quick laugh, and rushed to settle an overflow of soap, water spilled all over the floor, and several wet children.

After everything was settled in the bathroom, the royal family ate dinner, planning their next day. Then it was time for bed. But just as Ralnor pulled the sheets over himself, he sat up and he asked, “What will I be when I grow up?”

Zelda and Ganondorf turned towards their son. “What dear?” the mother asked.

"Well, I'm not going to be the king like you said. So, what will I be?”

"You'll be a prince, you will always be a prince," Zelda replied. “You can help your brother run the kingdom, go on trips, help him with the plans all kinds of things.”

“And you can be something else,” Ganondorf interjected. “Rinku is a princess and she goes out on adventures and fights monsters. You can travel all you want or stay at home, just do what you like.”

“What I like?” the prince asked

“Exactly-you can write books since you love to read. Or you can travel around learning about all the different plants in the world.” The king commented.

“Can I learn about the poisonous plants in the world too?” the prince asked.

Zelda winched a bit, “Where…did you learn about them from?”

“Ms. Isley told us in class about plants that defend themselves by making liquid so that when animals eat them, they can get sick or even die. Doesn’t that sound amazing?” The boy said awestruck.

“Ah yes, but those are very dangerous Ralnor. You have to be really careful or else you could get hurt too,” Zelda warned.

“I will be Mama, I promise,” Ralnor said.

Ganondorf sat down on the bed, creaking and slumping underneath his weight, “You know, Ralnor. I wager no matter what you choose. I know you are going to be great at it, even famous for it.”

“Really?” the boy smiled, pushing himself up.

“Yep, I bet someday there will be a day where there’ll be a crowd cheering your name.” The king picked up the boy, holding him up in the air. “I can just hear them now! ‘Ralnor!’ ‘Ralnor!’” he chanted as he bobbed the boy, now laughing.

“Ganondorf, it's bedtime," Zelda warned lightly. “No sense in winding him up.”

“Yes. Right.” The king slipped the boy back into the sheets and gave him a kiss on the head. “Goodnight Ralnor. I love you.”

"I love you too Papa. I love you, Mama. Night."

“Goodnight my love.” The queen cooed and kissed him on the forehead, patted his head.

The parents watched as their boy slowly dropped into his dreams. The king noticed the forlorn look in his wife’s eyes. “What?”

Zelda lamented, “It’s just…while I don’t have as many memories as you, I once do recall having an older brother. We got along well until my father confided in me about my relation to the goddess and how it would be my duty to keep the Triforce safe. When my father died and my brother assumed the throne, he wanted to know where it was, but I was hesitant to tell him. He persisted, even hiring a magician to torture me. Out of anger at my resistance, he cursed me into a deep sleep. The next thing, I know the hero was standing by my bed, smiling. That’s really all I remember from that life. I don’t recall if my brother and I ever made up or even met again, given how long I was asleep. I know that the duties between our sons won’t be like this, but I can imagine how Ralnor may become envious of the power and influence Covarog will have someday.”

Ganondorf let out a snort, “Well at least you didn’t have mothers, aunts, sisters, and cousins try to dump all political responsibility from the trade, guard, to visiting on you the moment you became of age so they could have fun. And while I did have a first-born daughter that eventually took my place, none of their sisters were pressured to be as like them.” He turned his wife towards him, hands in hers. “I know this uncertain ground for us, but I’m sure that we can raise Ralnor with all the love and attention he'll need. Eventually, he'll find something that will capture his attention, like Orana with animals or Kanisa with music, and any envy he'll have for his brother will fade in favor for passion in life pursuit.”

Zelda sighed and smiled, “Again you know what to say. Thank you so much, dear." She stood on her tip toes and reached around her husband’s neck. He eagerly bent down to close the distance and they kissed. After the embrace, the queen glanced between her husband and child.

“What?”

“Is just that…poisonous plants? That is what he finds interesting? I always wondered what side effects marrying a demon king could have and now I think I’m seeing the side effects.”

“Well I think I’ve seen some books on the subject in the library, so he can’t be the only one. Besides, I can’t take full responsibility here, there are some pretty shady teaching in Sheikah training."

Ralnor continued to sleep, oblivious to his parents’ chuckles and quips. Instead, he stood, as tall and big as his papa, in front of a huge crowd, spreading as far as he could see. And just like his papa said, they were all cheering his name. And Ralnor loved every moment of it.

Several miles away from the castle, a guard in armor yawned as he glanced at the papers in front of him. He glanced at the man in front of him. A short chubby, black-haired Hylian, dressed in a nice clean shirt, a leather vest embroidered with golden vines, and pants with boots. And then he glanced at the line of four carts trailing out behind this first man. “Seems like everything is in order,” he mumbled.

The merchant smiled, “Great! Thank you, sir, and hope you can get some sleep soon.” The man bowed and jumped up back into the cart behind him. He cracked the reins and his two horses pulled the cart slowly away.

The guard idly watched the next three carts: the first a thin man with blonde hair who smiled broadly, the second man muscular with brown hair who gave a nod, and finally a red-haired who barely looked older than a teenager who glanced but quickly turned back to the road in front of him. “Just a normal caravan,” the knight thought and headed into the station when the last cart caught his eye. Rather the large robed figure sitting at its bench, face obscured their hood, even in the low burning lamplight. The robe even covered their hands “Oi who are you?” he yelled out.

The figure flinched, halting the cart. “Me sir?” A deep woman’s voice answered.

“What are you hiding underneath that hood? Let me see.” The man stepped forward and started to reach for the fabric. The woman turned her head but didn't object or run.

“Hey why are you touching my sister!” the man leading the group hollered, just before the guard reached the hood.

“Sister?” the knight stated, glancing between the two. “What-”

“She’s got burns on her face! Check the papers, she’s with me!”

The knight grumbled, taking back his hand. He started to shift through the papers until he stopped at one. He squinted and read, “O-ko-wi?”

“Ukuri,” the woman replied. “Exotic name from an exotic mother.”

“See? Now let her go!” he hollered.

“Okay…okay yeesh! Sorry if hoods are suspicious!” the knight hollered and waved them away.

The woman sighed and cracked her reigns. For a while the group just traveled, the wheels squeaking and a few horses’ huffing the only sounds between the group. However, the first man turned around just in time for the lamp at the station to go dark. He called out, “Hey Ukuri! It’s safe now!”

The whole group let out a huge sigh. The woman flipped her hood back, revealing her brown skin, yellow eyes and a short crop of red hair. "Thanks, Mabal. You saved my life back there.”

“Finally go out with me on a date and we’ll call ourselves even,” the man yelled. Even with the distance, Ukuri could see the cheeky grin on the man’s face.

The blonde commented, "And afterward, the rest of us will have to pitch in for the doctor’s bills after she drives you crazy.”

"I agree with Jabok," the brunette laughed. “However, I think that the bills will be to fix his legs.”

"Well if she keeps turning me down, Kino, I'll end up at the doctor's with a broken heart!" Mabal exclaimed.

The three men laughed their heads off. The fourth man continued to shake and stare ahead.

Ukuri called out, “Hey Lobo, there’s nothing to be afraid of. I’m in now so relax.

The redhead sighed, "Sorry ma'am. I just didn't want anything to happen to you or Cass."

The woman smiled, “Aw! Aren’t you sweet? Good to see a few months on the road, you haven’t been completely corrupted.”

“Give us some more time!” Mabal called out. “You’ve been cuddling him under your wing, you’d think you were the boy’s mother. Speaking of kids, how’s our little mascot?”

"Well, she's…” Ukuri started as she turned to her cart. However, she spotted at the very end, a small red bump peeked out from underneath the tarp.

The Gerudo woman gave out a small chuckle. She turned away, and stated loudly, “Don’t worry. Cass is fast asleep like she should be since we have a big day setting up our booth tomorrow and not staying up late. And if she isn’t, she’s got to beat to all the rugs for everyone when we hit the road again.”

There was a small gasp and the bump retreated underneath the trap, slithering around. The sound of snoring quickly filled the air. However, just as the bump reached the end of the cart, right behind the woman, she pulled it up reveal a Gerudo girl, dressed in white pajamas on her hands and knees right above a small pile of furs.

“Whoopsie…” the girl let out with an awkward grin. “So…rug duty in like two months??”

“No…but don’t tempt me,” the woman scolded lightly. She offered a hand and the girl took it, helping herself up and into the seat.

“Sorry, mommy. I couldn’t sleep. I mean, we are here! In Hyrule!” Cass stated, arms out wide.

“So, what were you expecting staying up late-dragons and fairies flying overhead?” Kino asked.

"No…but that would be really cool," Cass admitted.

“True, especially with the profits we could make on all those scales," Mabal answered. “However, I think that Hyrule can be just like any other country we’ve been too. It’s got grass, trees, roads-nice ones I’ve got to admit, and plenty of customers.”

“Are you sure sir? I’ve heard stories,” Lobo started.

"About the golden goddess, the demon king, and the Hero of Time? Please, you think we'd be that lucky to be born in such a time?" Jabok commented.

“More like unlucky,” Ukuri huffed. She sighed then said loudly. “Let’s just keep our noses clean and our hands off the barmaids and this venture should be a nice profit for all of us.”

“We will if you will!” Jabok declared.

The whole group burst into laughter, clutching their sides and wiping some tears falling tears. The men soon continued on various conversations, mainly talking about various goods and hopeful customers.

As she tried to follow the talks, Cass leaned into her mother. She clung onto the woman’s body. She asked, looking down, “Do you think we’ll be safe here?”

The woman pulled the child closer, keeping her large hand on her shoulder. “We will be. Just keep smiling and keep out of trouble and we should be okay.” Ukuri moved Cass’s head to so she could look the child in the eye. “Okay?” The woman smiled.

Cass smiled and nodded, “Okay.”

Ukuri rubbed Cass’s head, “Come on, be confident! We’ve got the caravan and you’ve got me. And You’ll always have me, monkey.”

Cass yawned, rubbing her eyes. Ukuri moved the child so now she lay on her lap. “Sleep tight kiddo, we’ve got a long day tomorrow. Love you.”

“Love you too, mommy,” the little girl mumbled before snuggling into her mother’s thighs. After the child’s breathing slowed, Ukuri gazed turned to the horizon, a town with a large castle silhouetted by the moonlight, slowly coming into view. “We’ll be okay,” she mumbled to herself. She brushed the girl’s hair. “We’ll be okay.”

Thanks for reading! Here’s a link to the first chapter: Chapter 1: Marketplace

#fanfiction #my writing #zelgan #legend of zelda #zelda #ganondorf #ralnor #cass #covarog #orana #kanisa #tebanam #klinge #childhood romance au #casnor #please comment if you can #i'd love some questions too

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