(Zelink) The Legend of Zelda and the Last knight- Swords and Roses

Why we failed pt.37 A Dream in the Dark

Why we failed 100 Years Ago

Pt. 37

A Dream in the Dark

That night Zelda dreamed dreams of the most wondrous kind. For a brief, merciful moment, she believed the world wasn't spiraling into chaos around her; that her life was exactly as it had been just a few short days before—a life still radiant with hope and promise. Perhaps it all had been nothing but a terrible nightmare, one she would soon awaken from, safe beneath silken sheets in her familiar chamber.

In the serenity of sleep, Zelda found herself back in the sunlit sanctuary of her study, nestled high within the castle's tallest tower. She felt the gentle breeze whispering through the open window, rustling the edges of parchment and teasing the loose strands of her golden hair. The scent of aged paper and swift violet perfume clung softly to the air—familiar, sweet, and cooling, like a mountain breeze after a heat. Beneath it lingered lilac mist and peppermint rain, with a flicker of something brighter still—something that stirred the mind before words could form, kindling her imagination like flint to dry bark.

Zelda smiled, her fingertips grazing lovingly over delicate schematics inked by scholars of ages past. Here, amid scrolls and half-finished inventions, she was at peace—mind alive, heart racing with the thrill of discovery. Ancient mysteries unfolded before her, intricate mechanical enigmas begging to be solved, each one promising marvels she longed to restore to her people. Her heart soared, buoyed by curiosity and wonder, as the wind gently whispered forgotten secrets only she could hear.

Then, like clouds drifting lazily across the summer sky, the dream shifted seamlessly, carrying her to yet another cherished memory. Suddenly, she was a little girl again, wandering through the vibrant gardens and hedgerows of the castle courtyard. Sunlight warmed her small shoulders, while birds sang merrily from the branches above. Ahead her mother, graceful and radiant, laughter ringing out like music as she exchanged a loving glance with her father as they walked arm in arm. There were no whispered fears of Calamity, no worries or shadows—only warmth, smiles, and the pure joy of the present moment.

Her uncle Arcturus, ever playful and gentle, strode beside her, his eyes twinkling with mischief as they paused at the blackberry bushes heavy with ripe fruit. "Watch closely, my clever girl," he'd said with a conspiratorial wink, guiding her small hand carefully between clusters of dark, glossy berries. "Only the bravest explorers find the sweetest treasures, remember that and you'll never go astray, Sweet Niece." She felt vividly how the berries had burst upon her tongue, tart sweetness mingling perfectly as their rich juice dripped down her smiling chin while staining her fingertips. The taste was exquisite, summer captured in a single vibrant burst—so vividly sweet it could conjure laughter, chase tears away, and mend even the loneliest heart.

Oh, how she missed that carefree innocence. If only life could remain as sweet and simple as berries warmed by sunshine, shared with those she loved dearly.

But dreams shifted yet again, as often dreams do without warning—this time carrying her forward—not to a memory, but to a hopeful wish buried deep within her heart. She found herself standing beneath an ever watchful moon in the quiet elegance of the castle gardens, bathed in ethereal, silken light. She was awaiting someone, could it be? Her heartbeat paused and then quickened in preparation; as familiar footsteps approached, sure and confident through the shadows.

He appeared before her, eyes the color of clear skies after a soothing rain, hair tousled gently by the soft caress of the night breeze. She couldn't tell if it were him exactly in the silver moonlight, as often dreams did, but in her heart she dared to hope. Could it be him? He smiled at her, unguarded, his expression radiant with tenderness and warmth. No masks, no secrets—only truth, trust, and silent understanding passing wordlessly between them.