The knight and Marshall.

by Stale_Soda

Summary:

Link/reader but it wont let me make it a tag D:

You are Earl Marshall of the hyrulian army and work with the king to strategize while also carrying out your duties of fighting in the front lines and keeping order and discipline throughout the military. But while doing so getting closer to the chosen hero.

This is my first work on ao3 before i was on wattpad (i will not as the account as i dont want to share the atrocities i cant be bothered to delete) so bear with me please.

Notes:

Disclaimer:
I'm dyslexic so there might be spelling mistakes sorry :(
Chapters may be infrequent and inconsistent in word count
And uhhhhhuhhh idk
Oh pls dont be weird

 

Thats all :)

Chapter 1: Prologue

Summary:

A little talk :))

Notes:

Since its only the prologue its not as long as chapters will be. :D

y/n pov

It was an afternoon like any other at Hyrule Castle the maides were running around doing erens, the cooks prepping tonights dinner, the king strategizing in his study and some birds chirped tiredly from the trees scattered around.

In the library, one of the two librarians were wheeling a mildly squeaky trolley stacked with new books waiting to be sorted into the many bookshelves decorating the walls. While I was sitting at one of the old oak wood desks, with small chipps in and ink stains, being distracted from writing about the army inlistings from the Sheika tribe. The distaction was much wanted since I no longer wanted to think about anything from the stress of my busy scadual and constant pondering on war plans, yet even though I wanted a break that needed to be finished.

At some point later, the king had left his study giving me a nod of acnoligment and leaving to his chambers elsewhere. At this point i was going to leave the library having done my work, but before i left even my desk the princess wondered into the library most likely in search of some history book to fill her curious mind with and noticed me sitting there. As she was walking over i took a glance towords her and spoke in a respectful manner "what is it you require princess?"
"Not much, however i heard from my father that i should soon be getting a knight to accompany me. I was wondering if that was correct and whom it shall be?"
although her voice was free from negativity her facial expressions gave away her discomfort with the kings wishes.
"Well that is correct but as of right now, me and your father haven't decided on who so i cant give much insight on the subject. What you should know though is that after the battle that will be taking place in two days you most definitely will have one, at least within that week anyway." I could see the disappointment on her face from the reality of the situation. "Princess please dont worry. Its in my best interest to chose someone that won't be a bother." Zelda then smiled with a bit less sadness then before.
"It's fine Earl Marshal there's no need to fuss over it. Its not a suiter so I should be fine." Zelda gives me one last smile and goes back to traversing the bookshelves for good literature.

Chapter 2: Battle talk

Summary:

The evening was upon those that dwelled late at Hyrule Castle and they were all gathered in the dinning hall to feast on the cooks gorme meal.

Y/n
The king sat at the far left side of the hall (from the hallway) and Princess Zelda to his right and Impa across from her and I sat next to Impa. I was sitting rather calmly enjoying the food and the atmosphere around me as well as the someones occasional hearty laugh.

Times such as these often reminded me of training when was younger (you are one year older then link btw), around the age of 13 so five years ago now I would be in the scouts food hall joking with the trainees about something stupid right about now. Or when I was 11 boasting to my Father how good of a fighter I was to. Only then be beaten in every training exercise by him.

A nostalgic feeling brewed in my gut.

"Earl Marshall L/n." The king said to grasp my attention.
"Oh yes sorry what is it?"
" A bit lost in though then. No matter. As I said do are you sertain monster forces will attack in a few days? "
" the intell we received from the outpost near Bridge Hylia. Said that groups of bokoblins have been setting camp in central Hyrule and that more will storm in hords in a few days. There may also be moblins but we are unsure as of now."
"I see. I suppose I should plan a speech for the knights soon."
" there shouldn't be too much of a need but it would be good for morale since as of late I've noticed a lot of soldiers having less comradery from the frequent monster sightings. "
"I see suppose that is expected with the rumours regarding the calamity" I noticed the king stare quickly at Zelda , she noticed too from the biting of the lip signifying her attempt at fighting a frustrated expression.
"You shouldn't worry too much theres still a long time." As I said this I looked over the Zelda trying to direct this to her inadvertently, which she understood and smiled lightly.

At this point I had finished my food and so had most others meaning the cooks could collect in the dishes. As everyone was leaving the king came up to me.
"Tomorrow morning I would like to see you in the sanctum its where we, Impa and a few captains will be having a meeting."
"of course your Im guessing this is about the battle. "
"Yes it is. Before I say more id like to rest. ill see you in the morrow." I nod my head respectfully and he walks off to his chambers.

I arrived at the room I have at the castle. Its rather small but still bigger then what I had growing up. Over the 2 years I had been the Earl Marshall of the Hyrulian army and had the room it filled with little clutters like the little paintings of all the regions, a large slightly aged map on the wall and a small book sized portrait of my father and mother. Sighing I changed and climbed into my wooden single bed adorned with luxurious sheets that the maids put on and didn't match anything other then the eloquently shaped window.

Dream
I was walking across whistling hill looking over the plains of central Hyrule. The breeze dancing with the swaying grass and twirling field flowers as if in a slowed down ball. The sun gleamed caressing my skin in its glow and warming my face. The sky was clear, other then a few stray clouds that were small and white in colour with a cotton body.

I was now at the top of the hill and could see the patches of treetops and little villages decorating the greenery around the centre peace which is the castle.
I lie down on the hill feeling disoriented from the height and view and just look up to the sky. "Hylia why did you have to make the world so beautifully if I barely get to see it."

A small knock on my door wakes me up.
"Earl Marshall its time for you to get up." Its the soft voice of the maid that insists on getting me up everyday. I open my eyes and groan slightly, stretching.
"Im up Apple"
"The king asked me to tell you to be in the sanctum as soon as you ar ready for the day." She said through the door in a loud voice that sounds odd compared to her usual shy one.
"Thanks Apple."
"Your welcome Earl Marshall L/N." I hear her footsteps hurry off to get back to her duties and I decide to haul myself out of bed and get ready.

Between the guard's chambers and the second gatehouse is a waterfall and by that a small bath house that uses it. After getting dressed I make a quick trip there for a wash. The water was clear and steamy from the hot coals that warm it (you pour in hit water). They had diverted a small part of the river into a stream running through the room so that people could use the water to heat it up. After having a bath, drying myself off and getting dressed I make my way to the sanctum.

Once I get there im greeted with the king and Impa. "I assume the others have yet to arrive." I say wondering where the captains are.
"You would be correct the captains have not quite arrived. " Impa responded quickly, nodding.
"I see you are late as well." The king raises an eyebrow at his words.
"I apologise your majesty It took longer to get ready then anticipated."
"Its fine. Since the Captains have not arrived yet either I cannot be angry. " he sighs. "I suppose we will just have to wait"

Notes:

This one still a little short for what they will be but its fine. :)

Chapter 3: Father's shadow

Summary:

Warning strong language

The two captains had arrived and apologised for their lateness saying both their journeys were interrupted by some monsters.
Now that they where here it ment the meeting could begin. With the king on his high throne, he spoke ," As we are all aware monsters have been gathering in hyrule field making camps that act as outposts and fighting anyone that venture too close. This threat has been accumulating for days, more and more monsters gathering every night. The words are drawing closer. Which is why tomorrow at noon our troops will be gathered at the gate of castle town, prepared to exterminate the plague of monster forces. Because the General is no longer, it is up to you two for in the time between then and now I expect for you to gather the knights and soldiers. This is a hord of such magnitude we've not seen in many years... I fear the prophecy is in effect... Captain Ryota I believe The Earl Marshall wishes to speak with you. Is that correct?"
"Yes your highness" I looked to wards the king and nodded respectively.
"We have nothing else to discuss therefore you are dismissed."

Once I left the sanctum with the others, I asked Captain Ryota to meet me in the library that night. I saw Impa leaving to find the princess and with nothing else to do I walked back to my room in the castle to look over some reports from the Generals of Hyrule.

While reading the reports and occasionally having to write back, I often got distracted by the small smiling portrait of my father sitting on my desk. My hands felt heavy, and weight consumed my body. I glanced hurriedly towards the painting again and in fear of tears, layed it to rest in my drawer.
I looked back at the paper and held out my ink stained hands Infront of me before then running them through my hair in stress. But regardless of these feelings. I continued working, this time without his distraction.

After an hour or two of working followed by a few of just staring into space in thought, I looked out through the regal window where I had a view of the familiar painted sky, only to realise a It was soon to be dusk and therefore dinner.
Upon realising this I left the room, wandering through the long hallways adorned with red carpets to find a restroom to wash my hands.

Once dinner had ended most had retired to their chambers this excluded of course the night watch, but also Captain Ryota and I, where we had met in the library to speak.
Because of the lack of windows, no moonlight could seep in meaning the room was plunged in darkness, with only a few candles to make the shadows dwindle.
Ryota and I had gathered around a desk however chose not to sit, on the thought that this would be quick. " Captain Ryota, I apologise for keeping you so late you see I considered it more efficient then sending a letter. What I came to consult you on is since the Necluda region is without a general."( General died from a lynal attack)."I know the king will be looking out for a face to fill the role. From how respected you were by the late General I'm assuming it will be your face. However I plead you do not hold it against me if it turns out to be false." Captain Ryota listened carefully, yet a vague expression of annoyance was present on his features.
"Earl Marshall is there a reason your informing me of this."
"I suppose I should get to the point. If you do become the General of Necluda, take these words. Abolish the national service for karako village. Because as of tomorrow the first battle against Gannon's monsters will commence and the troops will be the ones in the battle, some of them coming from that small village. I fear that if this is Gannon's doing, once it's all over the only traces of sheikah's Hyrule will have left would be the Yiga clan."
" No. I apologise *miss* . If I do become the General I don't believe I could fulfill your request. The sheikah elders would never agree and I won't force policies on them. But I don't expect you to understand that. I mean the only reason your here is because of your father. Plus everyone knows your going to make this country go to shit." I was in shock from his vulgar language and immensely angry from their use.
"You should learn some respect for the higher ups! Your the one that should worry because if you continue to act like this you'll never be a general!" Ryota grunts.
"You think your better then us but your really not."
"Leave! That's an order." He leaves while I was left seething in anger. I sit down at the desk and slam my clenched fist forcefully upon it. "Fucking Cunt!!!"

It took me awhile to calm down and when I did it was far into the night and I was too tired to feel anything so I walked back to my room with a captured feeling of frustration.

Chapter 4: Hyrule field part one

Summary:

Monsters begin the assault. The men are ready.

I awoken, still drained from the night before, but quickly shook off these feelings to make way for the mental preparation needed for the battle that daya.

I sat on my messy bed slouching as my eyes were blinded by the morning rays - that were unfortunately undisturbed by my thin flowing curtains. I tried to erase the tiredness and adjust my eyes by wiping away the crusted fatigue-filled residue and holding open my eyes.

 

After about 3 minutes of struggling to do so, I knew I had to get ready for the day as to not upset the king with my possibly perceived uneagerness. I changed in to my armour that was specially designed for my high status in the Hyrulian military. Although all that really changed was the colour of helmet and some small yet intricately detailed engraving. 

 

Post fastening the last armour strap onto my body, I went down to the dinning hall for breakfast.

While eating some porridge, a friendly face came up to me dressed in a captain's uniform. I recognised him as the other captain from the kings meeting. "I don't believe we've had a chance to formally meet yet. I'm captain Rubeo." He held out his hand for me to shake with a strong yet seemingly innocent smile on his face. I shook his hand somewhat confused as to what his intentions were.

"Forgive me for asking but what is the purpose of this conversation." I tried my best to not come off as rude, but I knew it would seem that way.

"Well I was wondering if what the king said was true.-- about the calamity." He replied in a slightly awkward voice while also scratching his head. I sigh slightly annoyed at the question.

"We don't know for certain if whats happening is what the prophecy for told, but the signs are there meaning we must be ready for anything." 

"I see. I was just wondering because there has been talk of the moon tinting red and-"

"Those rumours are being looked into by the Hyrulian research committee. But as of now there is nothing to worry about." My face softened slightly, "if you have concerns please report to the king."

"Of course Earl Marshall." Captain Rubeo walks away his soft smile replaced by the respective resting face most others wore.

I felt slightly guilty for how my professional behaviour came off but reassure myself he wasn't there for me.

I finish my porridge with a smaller appetite then before.

 

I still had an hour or so before the kings speech, meaning I had time to find Impa ask about the evacuation.

One of the maids had said she went to see the princess in her chambers. With that knowledge I came there, hearing happy chatter from both of them. Feeling slightly awkward, I knocked on the door. Princess Zelda opens it. She's dressed in her royal gown most likely ready for the speech. "Sorry to intrude princess, but I was wondering if I could speak with Impa."

"O-of course Earl Marshall," she turns away briefly ," once your done could you accompany me to the town gate. There is something I would like to speak with you about." 

"If you wish princess."

 

Impa leaves the room slightly confused.

"What is it you need?"

"Have the villages in hyrule field been evacuated yet as the battle should start soon?"

"Yes they've all been moved inside castle town for the time being."

"That's good thank you Impa."

"No problem. I should get going to the speech. See you later."

"See you."

I open the princess's door. "Are you ready princess?"

"Yes, I am." She stands up from her desk. "Let us be off." We walked together towards the exit of he castle.

"What is it you want to talk about?" 

"I spoke to father about the knight situation and how I will be appointed one soon. I just- could you postpone it." I sighed knowing she really didn't want this knight.

"Sorry princess as much as I want to follow your request, I've been given direct orders from the kings so I have no other choice but to. I did say before that I'd try to find someone that wouldn't be a bother but I can't ignore orders."

"I see,-- I suppose it's fine. Anyway, why is it you never really talk to anyone in the castle."

"What do you mean princess?" I asked slightly confused as to where she was going with this.

"I mean no disrespect - but all you every seem to talk about is work, not that that's a bad thing."

"Well, I hold my job highly with my father of course being the old Earl Marshall, but I also have a duty to the country... I'm sure you understand the feeling princess."

"I do very well. I thought I had told you to call me Zelda."

"Oh, sorry -- Zelda," she smiles softly. We walked out of the castle and to the gate in a comfortable silence.

"I would like for you to accompany me more often." I nodded in return. 

 

We were now at the town gate, the king on the wall about to deliver his speech to the waiting soldiers.

Notes:

Sorry for long wait a lot has happened in my life. Um for one my mum going into hospital for a possible genetic disease, which means I could have it--- yeah. Plus I'm doing art GCSE big mistake on my part ngl.