Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Link, please. The answer is no.” Zelda walked alongside her friend down the newly polished floors of the manor. Three days had passed since the start of Super Smash Brothers Melee. Many more fighters were invited to participate this year, leading to a grand expansion of the manor beyond what the veterans from the previous tournament were accustomed to. The vibrant colors and neatly organized decorations made Zelda smile at every turn, graciously reminding her of Hyrule Castle.

However, the more her hero pressed on her personal matter, the more her smile diminished.

“My princess. I ask you to think about this. Having Sheik as a participant would give you a large advantage in battle. This is a proven fact!” Link insisted as if the princess hadn’t heard enough.

She sighed, slightly irritated. “It was me who was invited to Smash, Link. Not Sheik. I can’t imagine that would not be seen as cheating. It’s only fair to attend as myself, yes?”

“Fine, I suppose you win for now.” Link locked his fingers behind his head. He paused when the two encountered the solid white door with a golden slate engraved with “Zelda.”

“Care to train with me tomorrow, just as you are? I can’t predict when the Hands will start organizing tournaments for us.”

The princess smiled at her friend, placing a hand on the doorknob of her room. “That sounds lovely. I truly am looking forward to being a part of such an extraordinary event.”

Link smiled right back. “I’m glad! I know you’ll fit right in here.”

The two waved their goodbyes and settled in their respective quarters for the night.

The night lingered on. The princess tossed and turned but sleep seemed unreachable. Zelda sat on her bed in silence with thoughts she couldn’t shake. Sheik has guided Link on the path of saving Hyrule on numerous occasions on his journey to wake the Seven Sages, something Zelda was sealed away from. Sheik gave Zelda confidence in her physical abilities, whereas she had depended on her magic for combat.

“Would it truly be an optimal decision to bring Sheik into battle?” She rested a hand on her chest. Her heart pounded, thinking of the potential she could display on the battlefield.

“I can’t keep holding back,” Zelda whispered. “If I want to stand beside the others as an equal, I must act.”

Her palms tingled with light as the Sheikah magic awakened. “Forgive me, if this is wrong.”

With magic at her fingertips, the princess motioned her hands until she was concealed in a white aura. Once vanished revealed the survivor of the Sheikahs, Sheik. The alternate getup already pulsed with adrenaline. Rapid kicks flew from his legs at the air. He grinned under his cloth mask.

“If I’m not mistaken, Link mentioned the training rooms are open at all times.” Hesitantly, Sheik unlocked the hinge on the room’s window. His destination was in his sight. “I only wish to sample a match while the manor slumbers. I will not exceed any unnecessary time.”

The drop from above left no problem for the Sheikah, as he gracefully landed on the grass below. His crimson eyes searched the plains for any signs of activity before darting across the field to the other wing.

The sight of the arena was breathtaking. A vast open room behind large doors that could project any stage the user desired. The manor held many more separate rooms with the objective to maximize training... yet roaming the halls as a masked stranger would lead to their own consequences.

“Only registered fighters were allowed access to the simulation chambers. Sheik isn’t officially part of this year’s roster... I’m breaking that rule in every way.”

Sheik inhaled deeply before activating the touch pad, bringing the facility to life. He jumped at its swift response, immediately greeted by the multitude of settings the arena had to offer. The combinations seemed endless, but his time here was restricted.

Master Hand had mentioned that records of the last tournament’s fighters were used, consensually, to create clones for solo training. It made Zelda shake to think about how one possibly being made of her. But that thought was nothing to trouble over now.

Sheik settled for a one-on-one battle against a CPU clone of Link (which caused some unsettledness in him) on the Green Greens stage. He chuckled quietly. Whispy Woods provided an odd familiarity to the Deku Tree in the Kokiri Forest. Perhaps not much of a compliment.

Hitting the ‘Ready’ button, that open empty stage transformed into a levitating copy of Green Greens from his fellow smasher’s world. Around him was a beautiful blue sky and a wide blue sea. Three grass covered platforms emerged with blocks of obstacles, the middle of which sprouted the hollow face of Whispy Woods.

On the far end of the platform stood the carbon copy of Sheik’s friend, with a perfect stance of computer-generated fighting spirit. Sheik held up his fists. The announcer counted down and the battle began.

Punches, kicks, projectiles everywhere. Link was fast, but Sheik held the advantage, quickly dodging his boomerang throws and countering back with charged needles and heavy spikes to the ground. Sheik could feel his heart racing, each hit doing more damage than the last. He was in the lead. Two stocks against one. If Link were to leave just one last opening, Sheik could win. He remained focused, keeping his fiery eyes locked onto every move-

*bang bang*

Sheik’s pointed ears twitched, and a shiver was sent down his spine. No, that couldn’t have been from the match, but from the other side of the doors. Who could be awake at this time of night? His guard dropped for a moment, just enough for Link to land and aerial attack off the stage, knocking his stock down to one.

Seconds felt like hours until Sheik recovered on stage again.

“Hello? Is someone there?” A high-pitched voice called, followed by the clicking sound of doors being closed.

Sheik grunted. The echoing of high heels grew closer. There was no time to shut down the simulation without confirming the presence of another being. In a panic, he crossed his forearms and vanished.

“Anybo- huh?” A princess layered in pink stood in awe at the mystical green stage before her. She smiled.

“My, what a peculiar looking tree. Mario did say I’d meet characters of all sorts here, but you’re part of this stage I assume, yes?”

Sheik emerged on the opposite end of the training room. With his back against a wall, he breathed deeply of relief. “How careless of me to take such a risk...” Yet curiosity still held the better of him. He took silent steps towards the lively princess.

“Now how could have- oh you!” Her eyes sparkled at the appearance of the man dressed in green standing idly on the forest-like stage. “You’re Link, right? From the last tournament? Mario has told me all about you! Perhaps we could train together? I’ve been too eager to sleep if you couldn’t tell.” She giggled. The mindless clone gave no reply.

“That’s…Princess Peach, yes? From the Mushroom Kingdom?” Sheik’s eyes narrowed. “How odd, but I suppose I can't fault her for wanting to train.”

She then used the teleporter to glide closer to the Hylian on stage.

“Wait, no-“

Peach landed on the main platform of the stage and wandered over to meet the hero’s acquaintance. “Link, I- ahh!” She squealed, unprepared to be shot by an arrow. She furrowed her thin brows. “I’ll take that as a yes.” accepting the sudden duel. With her dress clutched in her hands, she charged.

The battle-driven clone stood its ground, waiting for her to get closer. He jumped to her backside, jabbing the princess with many swift strikes of his sword sending her flying over the ledge.

“PRINCESS!” The blonde Sheikah cried out.

Peach gasped. Her heartbeat accelerated in shock. She felt the gradient computerized blue sky mock her as gravity grasped at her too quickly before she could process a method of safety from her incoming doom.

“PRINCESS, USE YOUR PARASOL!” he cried again, stepping from his hiding spot, and shaping his hands to imitate a megaphone.

“My parasol? Uh, um...” Peach patted herself down, frantically looking for the parasol she kept in her dress. The time she had left to recover was running thin. That was until Peach felt the solid hooked handle. She tightly shut her eyes and hoisted the frilly accessory upwards. The rushed feeling felt lighter. Opening her eyes slowly, Peach almost let go when she realized was now floating more gracefully downwards. Her head jolted searching for an escape until the platform she was fired from came into sight. Her hand darted for the ledge. Just as her fingertips brushed the surface, Link’s bomb came hurtling, knocking her back far beyond recovery. She sunk further away until all she could hear was the announcer call out “GAME!”

Sheik rushed towards the simulation, throwing down the switch before meeting the princess’s side.

“Princess, are you okay?! By the gods, this is all my fault leaving the clone active.”

Peach blinked a few times to regain her consciousness. This strange blonde man knelt beside her. She raised an eyebrow momentarily but soon shook it off with a grin.

“Aren’t you the one who suggested I use my parasol?” Carefully, she rose to her feet. She took notice of how fast this man held his arms out, ready to catch her if she fell. “Thanks to you, I learned something new!” She held her hands together in glee. Now fully back to herself, she met face to face with her savior. His eyes were a pretty shade of crimson that Peach had never seen before.

Her cheeks went as pink as her dress. “But, um, I’m very sorry, but I don’t seem to remember meeting you before…um?”

Sheik took a deep breath to calm his risen nerves. “Right. My name is Sheik of the Sheikah tribe. In honesty, I am not a participant here, but I mean no harm. I can assure you that wholeheartedly. These mechanics were simply too fascinating that I could not resist.” He explained.

“Goodness, my apologies for the assumption. I’d feel much more embarrassed if I realized I missed you at the entrance ceremony. I am Peach of the Mushroom Kingdom. It’s lovely to meet you!” She bowed her head slightly. An honest smile spread across her face.

Sheik’s bow went deeper. “The pleasure is all mine, princess.”

“Oh dear.” Peach cupped a hand over her gaping mouth, even more flushed. “I must have made an awful first impression out there. I’m not much of a fighter you see.”

“I can assure that you have potential to unlock, princess.” Sheik crossed his arms over his chest. “Through training and determination, you can find a fighting style that will lead you to victory.”

“You truly believe that Sir Sheik?” Her gaze softened.

Sheik tugged his mask higher to hide the heat in his cheeks. “Uh, just Sheik is fine. But yes, I have full faith in you.”

“Sheik.” Peach smiled warmly. “You are very kind. I could certainly learn a thing or two from you! I will take your words to heart and do my very best in this tournament.”

Peach’s glowing positivity made the moon illuminating the night sky look dull. “Was it truly possible to be this optimistic? Her people must be happy being under her care.” He thought. Though he couldn’t imagine how someone with no experience could fairly take part in this tournament. Zelda was nervous herself despite the training she’s endured since childhood.

“Princess.” The words left his mouth before he could stop them. “Allow me to train you. I can help you discover your strength.”

Peach was taken aback, yet her eyes continue to sparkle. “Y-you mean it? Truly? If so, that would be wonderful!”

By the gods, what have you done?

“No. My apologizes. I misspoke.” He quickly responded, turning his head away from her. “The rest of this manor should not know of my presence here as someone without an invitation. I could only imagine what could arise if I were to be discovered.” Sheik continued to look away, unwilling to face the light drain from Peach’s eyes. But then, her silk-gloved hand took his.

“What if…what if I promise to keep your existence a secret? We can train here at night... just like this.” Her voice lowered, like she was too shy to ask. Sheik’s heart jumped as he looked back up at her. “I would love to learn all that I can from you. It would be more than an honor.”

Sheik took a deep breath, cursing himself for speaking out of line. Breaking a princess’s spirits was not part of tonight’s plan. It was foolish, but he couldn’t bring himself to say no.

“Very well.” He spoke, hesitant to meet her gaze. “We shall begin in two days’ time after hours in this very room.” He paused. “As for today, I’m sure dawn is nearing at this point. You should rest, princess.”

The words themselves stifled a yawn from the other. Nevertheless, Peach balled her hands into fists and the new ignited passion in her eyes pulled Sheik’s attention. “Sheik, thank you! I promise your secret is safe with me. I’ll become strong enough to deserve this chance!”

Sheik could only nod at this, as every instinct told him not to do this. The risks were high. But the way the princess looked at him, it captivated him, and he didn’t know why. He didn’t want to let her down.

For the rest of the night, Peach slept with sweet dreams while Zelda tossed and turned restlessly in her bed until daybreak hit.

Chapter Text

He had arrived earlier than what he promised the following night. He figured shooting shuriken at a clone of Captain Falcon would serve Zelda better than pacing her room in nervous circles. The moon was bright through the skylight. Sheik stood with his back against the wall admiring its glistening white hue. It was calming and relaxed his quickened heartbeat.

He hadn’t been there for long, but enough time passed. At the corner of his scarlet eyes, he could see a bouncing blonde ponytail and a light suit of pink. He kicked himself off the wall and faced her.

“Good evening, Sheik!” She greeted with a glossy pink smile. “I apologize for my tardiness. I was, um... changing. My dress doesn’t exactly scream ‘fighter.’” She laughed nervously and patted the imaginative dust off her clothing. A small mushroom was embroidered near her heart. It suited her.

“Strength is not found in one’s appearance. It is found in discipline. But worry not, princess. Your dedication is admirable.” Sheik walked toward the center of the open floor, motioning with a flick of his hand for her to follow. “Now then, shall we begin?”

Peach nodded and stood facing him. “Yes, sir! Please teach me.”

“Show me your fighting stance.”

Peach obliged, bending her legs out and tightening her fists like she’d seen Mario do countless times. She rolled up her sleeves for extra measure. Sheik circled the princess. Her knees were too straight. Her balance was delicate but unsteady. Not just fighters in this friendly tournament, but any enemy encounter would notice her inexperience. But he tried to take helpful notes where he could.

“You favor your right foot.” He said aloud.

Peach blinked. “I do?”

Sheik didn’t respond. With his boot, he carefully nudged her right heel in a more balanced position. The princess nearly stumbled, but she held her ground.

“Now, bend your knees more. Your lower half is unguarded. No doubt an opening for a crouch attack.”

“Right, ok.” Peach slowly sunk her knees lower. “Like this?”

Sheik shook his head. “More.”

She dipped a little more, wobbling slightly. “H-how’s this?”

“Better.” Sheik nodded. “Though, I can see the tenseness in your face. Relax your face muscles, princess. It benefits more to keep that tightness in your legs to keep you from being knocked flying. Plus, we never want our opponent to sense nervousness.”

Peach took a deep breath. It made perfect sense. “You truly are an expert, Sir Sheik! I never knew there was a proper way to stand idle.”

“I assure you. No one is born with talents in combat. Not me, nor anyone from my tribe. I trained for years under my mentor.” He thought of Impa, hoping she was doing well.

For a moment, Peach swore she could see a shimmer in Sheik’s eyes. She hadn’t seen it until now. She grinned. “I’d love to hear about your tribe someday.”

The ninja’s heart jumped at the unexpected remark. Had he allowed something to slip? He looked at her with the same coldness as before. I can make no promises but…” No, that was a bad idea. “Let us continue. Your form is still too small. Widen your footing. It will assist with your balance.”

Peach blinked in surprise, but she didn’t push. She let out a small laugh and did as she was told. “Yes, sir!”

“Now, I will come at you. Worry not as no real harm occurs between fighters here. We are to see how well you can stand your ground.”

She nodded in consent. Her knees were bent and her face relaxed.

He took a few feet back while analyzing her form. Then in a flash, a sweep of his leg toward her ankles.

Peach let out a shriek and reluctantly closed her eyes and shielded her face with her forearms. She barely caught her footing before stumbling back.

Sheik stood with his arms crossed. “Not bad. You’re still standing.”

“Physically maybe,” she breathed out a laugh and clutched the embroidered mushroom on her chest. “Though, my heart might now be in my stomach.”

He let out a sound of amusement. “It is only natural for a novice. But even something as small as this is a big step in your progress.”

Peach smiled once more, delighted to understand a sliver of the art of combat.

“Your instincts are slow but not absent. We’ll be sure to train in that area.”

Peach stretched her arms with a light groan. “You’re not one to sugarcoat things, huh?”

Sheik tilted his head slightly. “False hope provides nothing. Clarity is key.”

She considered that, then gave a small nod. Her gaze flicked up toward the skylight. The moonlight still glistened through the glass.

“Is this how you train back home, Sheik?” she asked quietly, turning her focus back to him. It was as if some of that moonlight found its way into her curious eyes. “With your mentor, I mean. Alone. Late at night.”

Sheik wanted to answer with silence. He hesitated. Any information could nudge the truth closer to the surface. Peach’s heart was kind. It was in her nature to want to grow closer with others. Zelda had seen her earlier that day eagerly chatting with Samus, even playing with Pikachu. Did she have this same sparkle then? Melee had opened a door so wide to learn about other worlds out there. Coming to understand their customs would be a treasure trove for someone as curious as her.

Once the realization hit, Peach covered her mouth. “Oh! I’m so sorry! That was personal, wasn’t it? Forgive my rudeness.”

“No.” he said quickly, then backtracked. “I mean, the solitude allows concentration. The world does not always reward visibility. Besides, as long as the royal family I serve, and all their people remain safe, recognition matters not to me.”

“I see.” Peach smiled to herself. “I bet this royal family has no worries with you around. I would feel the same. I have no doubt that you’d defeat Bowser like it was nothing!”

Her enthusiasm. Shiek felt a warmth in his chest. “Soon, princess, you’ll become a fighter capable of overtaking him yourself. You have plenty potential. I will ensure your victory.”

“You’re kind, Sheik. I have so long to go, but I am hopeful with you by my side.”

Sheik hummed a noise of acknowledgement. A weighty, comfortable silence followed. They were strangers yet helping her felt increasingly right.

Then he turned back, clearing the moment away with a shift.

“Once more,” he said. “We’ll try your stance again. This time, strike first.”

Peach blinked. “Wait, me? Am I ready?”

He gave a short nod. “If you hesitate, you will always be the one catching your balance. And your opponent will not wait for you.”

She took a breath, squared her shoulders, and stepped forward.

“Alright then,” she said. “Let’s go!”