.
Xxx 29 xxX
"What do you mean she's out of reach?"
"My Lord, she used magic to vanish. She could be anywhere—"
"And I want every scum-ridden rock upturned until she's found, Felix. I don't care what it takes. Don't show your face here again until you have her!"
Vasilis watched as the captain mumbled his acknowledgement and bowed before he promptly left the room.
The queen's disappearance had caused quite the uproar. By Ashton's orders the gala had ended early, though he, in his fearsome rage, had neglected to give the announcement himself. Vasilis had concluded the party on the king's behalf, informing Ashton's guests that Queen Zelda had taken ill. No one but Ashton, Captain Felix, and the queen's primary physician, Geoffrey Maddox, knew of her escape.
Ashton trusted Vasilis and the captain to keep quiet, but Maddox had been locked away in a high security cell. Meanwhile the king had locked himself away in his chambers, refusing to see anyone but those he summoned.
"Someone helped her," Ashton snarled, his voice noticeably slurred—no doubt from the excess wine he had drunk since the queen's disappearance. "Some vile traitor helped her escape, and I'll be damned before they slither past me…"
Vasilis sighed. "My Lord, you have guards haunting their every move—"
"And I have seen the extent of their incompetence! A conspiracy is at work; I'd bet my life on it. This castle is crawling with Hylian traitors—"
He broke off, whirling about when a knock sounded at the door.
"I have the minister as you ordered, my Lord," a muffled voice spoke from the corridor.
"Bring him in," Ashton called.
The door opened, and Lord Kinsley stumbled inside, his hands bound behind his back. A guard forced him to knees and snatched his hair, forcing his gaze up toward Ashton. Slowly the king approached him, his green eyes bright with anger.
"Kinsley Daltor," he said with a mocking tone, "Minister of Military Affairs, personal advisor to the Prince of Hyrule."
Kinsley eyed the king but gave no response.
"You precious general placed a great deal of trust in you… did he not?"
"I recall no reason to think otherwise," the minister's voice was calm, near void of emotion.
"And you swore to serve him?"
"I swore fealty to Queen Zelda. I merely advised the Lord General. He… He was not eligible for such a pledge."
Across the room Vasilis watched his fellow minister, aware of the the change in the man's hushed voice.
Careful, Kinsley...
"And now?" Ashton demanded.
Kinsley furrowed his brow. "The Lord General is dead," he answered, recovering his hollow tone. "I serve the current rulers of Hyrule—Lady Zelda and you, Lord Ashton."
"You don't seem like the kind of man who swears fealty to a title, regardless of who wears it," Ashton hissed. "Your loyalty lies with Zelda."
"My Lord, you are confusing me," Kinsley replied. "Am I to choose between the two rulers of Hyrule?"
"Don't play ignorant with me. I know you were sympathetic to her, and I know you helped her escape."
Kinsley's head jerked up, revealing his shock. "Escape?" he breathed. "Her Majesty has left the castle?"
"Thanks to you, I'm sure," Ashton snapped. "Admit you were involved!"
"How could I have possibly helped her? You have made it impossible for me to speak with her, much less help her escape."
"You helped her obtain some magical device, one capable of teleportation!"
"I've done nothing of the sort—"
"If not you then someone within your network!"
Ashton's voice had reached an abnormally high pitch, making him appear as mad as the castle staff believed him to be.
"You traitors are all conspiring against me. Confess it!"
"If there are traitors plotting against you, my Lord, I swear I am not among them—"
"You expect me to believe your words? You, who tutored and advised that peasant since he was barely a man? He must have been like a son to you."
Kinsley's face twitched as he clenched his jaw. "My Lord—"
"I've heard enough," Ashton spat, snapping his fingers at the guards. Immediately they came forward, and Kinsley barely resisted when they forced him to his feet.
"Have this old fool thrown in the dungeons," Ashton ordered. "Give him nothing until I permit it."
Briefly Vasilis met Kinsley's gaze, recognizing the minister's subtle, pleading look before the guards shoved him out into the corridor.
"As for the rest of you," Ashton snarled, pointing at his remaining guards. "I want every staff member questioned; use whatever means necessary. Don't stop until the conspirators are found!"
They acknowledged him and hurriedly left the room, clearly eager to escape his wrath. Vasilis watched them go, holding his tongue until he was alone with the king.
"Are you mad?" he exclaimed once the door had closed. "You cannot imprison Lord Kinsley without cause, and you cannot unleash your paranoia on the castle staff!"
Ashton fixed him with an icy glare. "Mind your place, minister… Perhaps you wish to join your fellow minister?"
Vasilis held the younger man's fierce gaze, suppressing an unbidden tremor of fear. Somehow, within the past several weeks, the king's reliance on him had all but diminished. No longer did he seek his advice on navigating Hyrulean politics; no longer did he discuss his struggling reputation. Over time the minister had grown accustomed to Ashton's seemingly empty threats… Could he no longer afford to dismiss them?
"Please, my Lord," he said carefully, "all I ask is that you observe caution. Your enemy is out there, not here. If you demonize your own staff and subjects, you will lose the only loyalty you have."
Ashton held his gaze a moment, then turned away toward the window, gipping the ledge as he glared into the night.
"Use the queen's flight to your advantage," Vasilis urged. "Force her to come crawling back of her own accord. She has done it before."
"She won't," Ashton growled. "She never intended to return that night Felix captured her, and she won't return now."
"Then we must draw her out. You have hundreds of soldiers spread across the land; surely—"
"I don't need more soldiers stomping about, you idiot," Ashton cut him off. "I need someone with stealth, someone far more... specialized…"
Vasilis watched the king's reflection in the glass, noting his slow, devious smile.
"She must be hunted down," he murmured, "...and I know just the man to do it."
xxxxxxx
I woke to the faint, cheerful sound of birds chirping, inhaling deeply as the scent of fresh soil and pine filled my nose. My bed felt unusually firm beneath me, giving very little as I shifted against my pillow. Confused, I opened my eyes and lifted my head to find myself lying on a pallet in a tent…
Oh!
I sat bolt upright, uncertainty melting into joy when I saw Link standing behind a small table, studying various papers spread out before him. I drew his immediate attention, and quickly he moved to greet me.
"Good morning," he murmured, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "How are you feeling?"
I brought my arms around his neck and kissed him properly, smiling when he gladly returned it.
"Wonderful," I sighed. "But you should have woken me…"
"And why would I do such a thing? You looked so beautiful lying there," he added, tracing the curve of my cheek. "I couldn't bring myself to get up, much less wake you. I dozed with you for at least an hour, I think."
"It seems I'm a bad influence," I said, giving him a smirk. "One night with me and you're reverting back to your sleepyhead tendencies."
Link laughed. "I'll try to resist. But how are you feeling? Well enough to eat something?"
I nodded. "I'm quite hungry, actually."
"I can fix that," he said with a smile. "You stay right here, and I'll get us some breakfast."
He kissed me once more and rose to his feet—only to pause before a table covered in supplies. "These are for you," he said, resting his hand on a small pile of clothes. "Try them on if you like. I'll find you some more if they don't fit well. There's a pitcher and some clean cloths over there if you want to wash up first."
I nodded. "Thank you."
He gave another smile and turned to leave the tent, leaving me in a state of wonder. Slowly I hugged my knees and breathed a quiet sigh, baffled by how surreal everything seemed. I was free of Ashton, safe with the Resistance, and I could not recall the last time I'd seen Link in such high spirits. I half expected to wake again, back in my room at the castle…
Stop it, I scolded myself, instantly disgusted. You're not in dreamland. A great host of problems still wait outside this tent.
Breathing another sigh, I rose from the pallet and moved to wash up before sorting through the clothes Link had brought for me. Everything fit me well enough, particularly the brown sleeveless dress I chose to wear over a loose white blouse. A pair of worn boots sat beneath the table, and I was relieved to find those fit me as well.
Satisfied with my attire, I then peered into a small mirror I found near my clothes, frowning at my poofed, unkempt hair.
"Only you could look so pretty in those clothes."
I jumped, having missed Link's silent return. "Pretty? I look like I wrestled with a Biri…"
Link laughed as he set our breakfast tray aside, a sound that warmed me to my toes.
"I'm so glad I amuse you," I said with sarcasm, failing to hide my smile. "Now can I have something to tie it back?"
"I rather like the wilder look," he teased, rummaging through his satchel and handing me a leather cord. "Though it does suggest you've engaged in some… unladylike activity."
I meant to cast him a playful glare, but a blush claimed my face as I tied back my hair—which only deepened his amusement.
"Stop your snickering and hand me that blanket," I ordered. Secretly I was more than pleased—I could not remember the last time his laughter came so easily.
Together we spread another blanket on the ground and sat across from each other. Link set the tray between us and I loaded our plates with eggs, sausage, and biscuits while he poured cups of tea.
"Oh, my rings," I whispered, noticing my bare fingers with a rush of remorse. "I left them at the castle… I feared Ashton would take them away, so I stopped wearing them…"
"Yes, I suppose he wouldn't appreciate them," Link said dryly.
"They're in a safe place, but I wish I had taken them... There just wasn't time…"
"Don't trouble yourself over it," he soothed. "You were lucky to escape at all. Ms. Larson told me how you fled before the party had ended. How did you manage that?"
"It was an accident, really," I said quietly. "Or divine intervention, perhaps… I fainted in the middle of a dance."
"You fainted?" he echoed, furrowing his brow. "You were unconscious in the Meadow as well…"
"I've been under a lot of stress," I said quickly, unwilling to explore that subject. "Ashton was furious with me… He wanted me to return to the party immediately, but then I noticed that Heather had the Ocarina… We barricaded ourselves in the spare room and teleported before anyone could reach us. It was terribly close," I whispered, remembering Felix's enraged pursuit.
"That's what Heather said," Link murmured, searching my face. "She also said you attacked Ashton in a most satisfying way."
"Yes," I admitted, a smile tugging at my lips. "It is rather satisfying in retrospect… It all happened so quickly, and Heather handled it so well... I wish I hadn't fainted on her in the Woods like that. How much time passed before you found us?"
"No more than an hour. Kaepora saw you two appear and alerted me."
"But she must have been shocked to see you... I told no one about you, not even her. I hope she doesn't resent me for it…"
"Don't be silly. She was shocked, but she understood why you kept it from her. I asked you to keep it secret after all." Link paused then, glancing at me over the rim of his mug. "She is extraordinarily loyal to you, Zelda."
"I know," I said softly. "I don't know where either of us would be today if not for her… Still, I should never have allowed her to become so deeply involved."
"Heather is not a child, Zelda. Everything she did for you, she did of her own accord. The gods do work through other people, you know."
I smiled gently. "They have certainly worked through her. Someday I hope to reward her properly… if I can."
"You and I both," Link said. "For now, I made sure she received a private tent and proper care. She was delighted to learn her fiance is here."
"Adam Carlen is here?" I breathed. "Did Ashton release him?"
"Prematurely, yes," Link sighed. "Apparently he needs all the prison cells he can spare. Mr. Carlen took a risk coming here, and I haven't decided what to do about the remainder of his sentence. For now, he works here in the camp, and he's forbidden to leave, like the other residents."
"Why did he come here? He loathes fighting."
"I suppose he thought fighting was the only way to put his life back in order. He despises Ashton for obvious reasons, but Heather is the reason he came here. He feared Ashton had something to do with her disappearance from society, and so he decided to join the Resistance. Din knows he didn't expect to find me here."
I smiled, but it quickly faded as my heart sank. He'll want to slay Ashton himself once he sees Heather's scars. Or perhaps he'll blame me…
"Carlen wanted to join as an actual fighter," Link added, "but I couldn't allow that, not with his record. It seems to have worked out for him so far, though."
"I'm so glad Heather is with him... Did she tell you what happened to her at the castle?"
"No, what happened?"
I sighed. Of course she wouldn't tell him such a thing. "To punish me for leaving the castle, Ashton ordered that I receive six lashes… but Heather received them in my stead."
Link stared at me, his fork hovering over his eggs. "Six lashings?" he stammered. "Dear gods… this is a new level of cruelty, even for him…"
I nodded sadly. "That was how he controlled me… by threatening to harm others—innocent, humble people he could easily silence. His reputation is struggling, so I was able to push back a little, but I couldn't stop him from hurting her." My voice broke as sobs built up in my throat. "She will bear those scars the rest of her life…"
Link took my hand in his, squeezing it gently. "Those scars are Ashton's doing; Heather knows that, Zelda. She showed nothing but concern for you when I spoke with her."
"That doesn't mean I deserve it," I said softly. "She has done so much for me, and I have brought her misery."
"Stop blaming yourself for Ashton's crimes. I'm the reason you returned to the castle in the first place, aren't I?"
"All right, let's not start that," I sighed, setting my mug aside. "Enough about me. It's time we talked about you. I want to know everything that's happened to you."
"Everything?" he echoed, breaking his roll in two.
"That's right. I want to know why you were unable to return the Ocarina, how the spread of your scar has been reversed, and why I saw visions of you thrashing in agony in the Chamber of the Sages."
Link stared down at his plate, wearing a solemn expression.
"I'm not sure where to begin," he said quietly.
"My vision," I murmured, watching him closely, "has that already happened?"
Reluctantly he met my gaze. "…Yes."
I breathed a slow, trembling sigh, unsure how to process that. "…How did it come to that?"
Link gave a halfhearted shrug. "The markings continued to spread over time. As they did, my nightmares became clearer and more frequent… I heard his voice all the time, taunting me, commanding me… It became harder and harder to resist him without… repercussions."
"Repercussions," I echoed softly. "…You mean pain."
Link nodded. "Eventually it became too much. I started blacking out… I would wake somewhere with no memory of how I got there, or what I had done… It terrified me," he whispered. "I knew I needed help."
"You went to Nabooru..."
"Yes. She was the most isolated… The markings had begun to spread so quickly… I didn't dare go anywhere else. She brought me to the Chamber and summoned the others…. and they conducted some kind of cleansing under Impa's guidance. A Poiehte d' Khamen, she called it."
Poiehte d' Khamen…
Roughly translating to "the cleansing of darkness," the Poiehte d' Khamen was a Sheikah technique used to drive out evil spirits—from inanimate objects as well as living beings.
"But why didn't they cleanse you entirely? Why is the scar still there?"
"Because it was too dangerous," Link answered quietly, his eyes meeting mine.
"What do you mean?" I whispered, feeling the weight in my chest grow heavier.
"Whatever this thing is…" Link pressed a hand to his chest, over his scar. "It's a part of me now. It's woven into my very life force. Whatever damage the Sages did to this darkness, they did to me as well. Impa feared that if they destroyed the scar entirely… the damage to my body would be… extreme."
I stared at him, extracting the simple, terrible truth from his evasive words. "A complete cleansing would kill you?"
Link nodded slowly. "That is what Impa believes."
"But… But what can we do about that?"
"Don't worry, we haven't given up," he soothed. "Impa thinks you could protect me during another cleansing—shield me from its harmful effects."
"Shield you…" I lowered my gaze, barely able to form the words. "You mean with magic."
"She needs to know what this darkness is before she can say for certain, but that is her theory, yes… Are you still having trouble with magic?"
I looked away, suppressing the urge to cry. "I would have left the castle weeks ago if I wasn't," I said bitterly.
Link moved to sit beside me. "Do you know why this keeps happening?" he murmured, his hand caressing my back.
"I think… that it might have something to do with the baby," I whispered, unable to meet his gaze.
"Darling," he said gently, bringing my face back to his, "don't you dare be ashamed of that—"
"How can I not, Link?" I said as I pulled away from him. "How would you feel if you had to watch me suffer for Din knows how long? How would you feel if you were the reason I couldn't be free?"
"You want to blame yourself? Link exclaimed. "Then blame me too. I am just as responsible for this child as you are."
My anger urged me to find some retort, but I could not deny his logic. Instead I looked away, refusing to admit he was right.
"We didn't do anything wrong, darling," Link soothed, brushing a tear from my cheek. "We could never have foreseen this…"
Gently he wrapped his arm around me, caressing my shoulder as I melted against him.
"Why did it have to happen like this?" I choked, burying my face into the crook of his neck.
"I don't know," he murmured, kissing my forehead. "But I don't regret it, Zelda, not for a moment. If I must wait for this baby to come, then I'll do it without complaint, no matter what happens."
"Link…" I buried my face into his shoulder, failing to suppress my tears.
"Everything will be all right," he whispered, stroking my hair. "We know how to control it. We can beat this… We will beat this. You, me, and the Sages—we are stronger than him; you know that…"
I tightened my arms around him, wishing his words brought a deeper sense of reassurance.
I will find another way. That vile wretch will not take you from me.
Not again… Never again.
xxxxxxx
Link and I emerged from our tent around noon, walking hand-in-hand toward the portal to Goron City, where Link had arranged a meeting with the Resistance leaders.
Our tent was located in a private, more isolated area of the forest, but a short walk brought us to the heart of the camp, where most of the people lived. It was a lively camp, occupied by people of all ages—mainly women and children. Many occupied themselves with tasks such as laundry, sewing, or repairing weapons. Their faces were solemn, focused, but I could see the camp was not an unhappy place. Groups of women flocked together for animated conversation, and children ran freely through the trees, laughing and shouting as they played.
I had been surprised to learn that everyone in the camp knew the truth about Link. Once they agreed to the rules of the camp, the Resistance leader—still publicly referred to as Shade—was revealed to them. Link found time to meet with every newcomer, eager to learn what had brought them to the camp and why they placed their trust in the Resistance.
"You're taking a great risk by letting so many people know about you," I had told him.
"They deserve to know who they trust with their lives," Link replied, seemingly unfazed. "Obviously they can't know everything, but I want to be as truthful as I can afford. I will not be like Ashton, building on a foundation of lies."
Of course they knew nothing about his scar—even his leaders knew nothing of it. Despite his good intentions, Link dared not expose the darkness that plagued him, and I could not help but agree with his decision. After all, people feared what they did not understand, and loyalty often withered in the face of fear.
"This seems more like a community than a camp," I said to Link, trying to focus on more positive thoughts.
He nodded. "I hoped it would be. Though I can't take credit for all of this. I simply gave them a safe place and supplies to live on. They have so little, but they've made the most of it."
"You gave back what Ashton took away," I said, turning to give him a smile. "A sense of security—for themselves and their loved ones."
"Not all of them," Link sighed. "Many are family members of active Resistance fighters—people who risk their lives everyday."
"As do you," I reminded him. "And none of them came to you against their will. They trust you, Link… I doubt they place such trust in me."
"Zelda, that's all in your head."
"It isn't, Link; look at them…" I glanced around as we walked, noticing how people paused to watch us. Most of them bowed or curtsied, but few wore smiles on their faces.
"I see people showing reverence to their queen," he murmured, nodding and waving to the people. I did the same, hoping my discomfort didn't show.
"Did they act like this before I came here?" I asked him through my smile.
"There was more waving than bowing, perhaps, but what difference does that make? Yes, they're less formal with me, but it's always been that way."
I held my tongue, maintaining my pleasant, unfazed demeanor until Link and I had cleared the camp and ventured deeper into the Lost Woods. There I slowed to a stop, holding Link's hand until he turned with an expression of concern.
"It's different now, Link… I lived in the castle for months, bending to Ashton's will, and now I'm here. How can they begin to understand? I'm sure many of them resent me."
Link studied me a moment, then drew closer and took my other hand. I looked into his eyes, feeling my pulse flutter when I recognized the intensity behind them.
"If those people," he said firmly, "cannot look into our history and remember everything that you have done for them… If these troubled, complicated months are enough to make them doubt the years of service you have given them, they don't deserve your attention."
I bowed my head, steeling myself against a wave of sorrow. Gently Link tipped my chin up, bringing my gaze to his.
"If anyone dares to harm you," he said softly, "or harass you in any way, I will deal with them personally."
I swallowed, trying not to picture such an incident.
"...I hope it doesn't come to that," I whispered.
"It won't," he soothed, giving me a soft smile. "They just need time; you'll see."
.
Before long we had reached the portal to Goron City—a stone archway hidden deep within the Lost Woods. Link had marked a path from the camp to the portal, so that the other Resistance leaders could use it without getting lost. Only they knew how to find the path, however; camp residents were forbidden to enter the City.
Once we had passed through the portal, and the blinding white light had faded, we found ourselves standing in pitch darkness. Link summoned a small flame to his hand, illuminating a tiny entrance chamber, and I pressed a secret switch—disguised as one of many stones embedded in the wall. Slowly a section of the wall began to slide upward, allowing us to enter the City.
"Sister!" came a loud, rumbling voice.
I turned to see Darunia rush toward me with his large, bulky arms outstretched. I had barely managed his name before he swept me up off the ground in a tight embrace.
"Link-nadad said you would come today—I can hardly believe you are free of that kertun turmok-kor—"
"Careful, Darunia," Link said quickly, his hand on the Goron's arm. "Be very gentle with her."
Quickly Darunia placed me back onto the ground, studying me with a furrowed brow.
"Gentle?" he murmured. "Are you not well, Sister? Did I hurt you?"
"Don't worry about it," I assured him with a smile. "Link has become very protective of me lately."
"With good reason," Link defended. "Darunia tends to forget his own strength."
The Goron laughed and crossed his arms. "Zelda-naman has never feared me crushing her before. Has something changed?"
"Yes…" I trailed off and glanced at Link, who smiled.
"He should know before the others," he assured me.
Darunia furrowed his brow. "Know what?"
"Come springtime," I said, slipping my arm around Link's waist, "if all goes well… Link and I will have a child of our own."
"A child?" the Goron exclaimed, his dark eyes wide with shock. "Now? After all this time?"
"Well, not now, but—"
"Praise the gods!" Darunia grabbed both of us for another fierce embrace.
"The child must call me Uncle! He—or she—will be brave like you, Brother, and wise like you, Sister! The gods have given this blessing despite all that has happened! We must celebrate!"
"Actually, Darunia," Link said, his voice strained by the Goron's iron grip. "We were hoping to keep this as quiet as possible, just as a precaution."
"We will have to celebrate at a later time," I added, patting his arm.
The Goron gave a low rumble of disappointment. Though he would never admit it, Darunia was quite fond of celebrations.
"Hm… I suppose that will be best. Then for now all I can offer is my congratulations… You said we will tell the others?"
"Yes," Link replied as we headed down to Darunia's conference chamber, where the Resistance leaders awaited us. "They must know—for Zelda's safety."
As we approached the conference room, a sudden wave of nerves swept through me. Until that moment I had not considered how the leaders themselves would receive me. Did they, too, hold some hostility toward me? Would they protect me only because Link expected them to?
Link had assured me that the leaders knew the reasons behind my prolonged stay at the castle, but the gods only knew what they really thought.
As though sensing my thoughts, Link pulled me aside while Darunia went inside to join the others.
"Remember what I told you," he said gently, caressing my shoulders, "They know far more than the other residents do."
I nodded and drew a deep breath.
"They swore fealty to you, and to your father," Link added. "If uncertainty was enough shake that loyalty, they would have long replaced me as the leader of this Resistance."
I lowered my gaze a moment, considering his logic. "I suppose you're right."
"Do you want to tell them, or should I?"
"I will tell them."
"All right." Link smiled and kissed my forehead, then gestured for me to enter first.
Bright torches lined the conference chamber, illuminating its vast, circular interior, Vibrant red banners featuring the Goron crest hung between each torch, and a giant slab of rock seemingly chiseled from the wall itself formed a smooth peninsula at the center of the room. Five men sat around it, all of them familiar faces: Ian Pierson, former Captain of the Royal Guard, and former lieutenants Theodus Archer, Aiden Roth, Derrik Taenen, and Bryson Farr.
Each rose to his feet as Link and I entered the room, bowing low as we approached. I paused before the head of the table while Link stood behind me to my right, letting me lead the meeting.
"Welcome," I said with a nod. "Thank you for assembling here today. It's good to see you all safe and well."
They nodded and murmured similar greetings; a few even offered smiles.
"I'm sure my presence—and my absence—has caused some confusion during the past several months," I told them. "And I'm sure Link has tried to clear that confusion. Nevertheless, I would like to offer my own account to clear any lingering doubt or confusion. Please, be seated."
Together we settled onto the large, flattened stone which served as seats—Link at my right and Darunia at my left. A mug of tepid water sat on the table before me, and I sipped it before continuing my address.
"After Ashton invaded our kingdom and established himself as King, I decided I would first locate Link and then, with his help, start an organized resistance. Those plans were postponed, however," I added quietly, "when I came to believe that I had lost him. For weeks I struggled through a time of terrible grief, and I don't apologize for it. Everyone has a right to grieve their loved ones, and I am no exception."
I paused to take a slow, steadying breath, aware of Link's gentle gaze on me.
"Once I had recovered enough to carry on with my regular responsibilities," I continued, "I continued with my plan to leave the castle and seek out my allies. But I hadn't even left Castletown before I discovered that Link is still alive."
Briefly I met Link's gaze, aware of the unspoken plea behind his gentle gaze. Please say nothing about the scar.
"I learned that Link had already begun the work I intended to do. So, after a most unexpected turn of events, I chose to return to the castle—against Link's wishes. I feared that leaving the castle would jeopardize him and the efforts of the Resistance.
"During that time, I walked a very fine line between fighting Ashton's tyranny and keeping what little power I had left. Link had told me that Ashton's second staff might be somewhere in the castle, so I attempted to find it and present it as evidence against him.
"I did find it," I said with a hint of bitterness. "But I failed to confiscate it. I was imprisoned for this attempt, but my handmaiden, Heather Larson, helped me escape. At that point I had no intention of returning to the castle.
"I sought out Link in Kakariko and then accompanied him to Zora's Domain to meet with Princess Ruto. Zora's Domain was attacked by Vandelians during that meeting, and I chose to surrender myself as a diversion so that Link could escape.
"After I was escorted back to the castle, Ashton made any sort of retaliation impossible. He threatened to harm innocent people if I did not obey his wishes—specifically my handmaiden. Ms. Larson endured a cruel punishment because of my actions, so I chose to cooperate until I found a way to escape without leaving her behind.
"My desire to escape became desperate, however... when I discovered that that I am with child."
Several gasps filled the room, and nearly everyone looked stunned.
"A child?" Derrik exclaimed, looking toward Link with uncertainty. "And you, Lord General... you are the father?"
"Of course he is!" I snapped. "How dare you question it?"
Link placed a gentle hand over mine.
"There is no doubt that I am the father," he said calmly. "Unfortunately, given the circumstances, you will not be the last to question it. Therefore, Zelda and I wish to keep it a secret for now. Regardless of what others believe, this child is the sole heir to the throne, and so Zelda must be protected at all costs. For that reason, she can no longer play an active role in this rebellion."
He paused a moment, letting them see how serious he was. Then gently he released my hand, and silence fell over the room as they considered his words.
"But what of the staff?" Derrik inquired. "She was our only hope to expose it."
"Ashton denies ever having a staff," Link reminded him. "As long as I remain anonymous, he cannot use it without risking the exposure of his lies. The entire foundation of his rule would be shaken."
"Her Majesty's disappearance might cause him to take such a risk," Bryson spoke up. "He may try to draw her out somehow."
Fear tightened my chest as I glanced toward Link, unable to read his calm expression.
Ian shook his head. "It would mean his own destruction. I doubt even the Council knows about that staff. They would stop him."
"I doubt they have that kind of power," Derrik remarked. "Ashton would never allow that."
"Even if they could stop him, how many would die before they succeeded?' Bryson asked. "If they succeeded?"
"Then we should unleash a preemptive strike," Derrik declared, pounding a muted fist against the table. "Bring him down before he sheds more Hyrulean blood!"
"We don't have the manpower or the means yet, Derrik," Ian said. "You know that."
"Whatever Ashton does," Theodus spoke up, "the state of Hyrule will not change—which means our priorities will not change."
I bowed my head, realizing what Theodus meant. Earlier that morning Link described how the land itself was plagued by some kind of unnatural drought, even despite the frequent rainfall. Crops had begun to wither and livestock fell sick and died, as though some unseen destructive force had taken hold.
The old prophesy is being realized… just as it was during the Imprisoning War…
Legend told that when a false ruler took Hyrule's throne, evil would creep out of the shadows and slowly infest the land, bringing devastation and social unrest.
"Theodus is right," Link agreed. "Our highest priority remains with the safety and well being of our people. For now, everything else is secondary."
"Aye, especially considering the recent attacks," Aiden said. "On that subject, there's been another incident, this time at Snowpeak Village."
He paused then, unsure whether he should continue.
"Another attack?" I echoed. "More wolfos?"
"The reports imply that, your Majesty, and they claim skeletal monsters have attacked them as well—no doubt similar to those we witnessed on the battlefield," Aiden added quietly.
A tremor slid down my spine. Stalfos... My eyes met Link's and I saw a similar fear in his gaze. Again they walk our lands, just as they did during the Imprisoning War... I had seen evidence of wolfos even before Ashton seized power, but only in the heavily forested areas on the borderline. Now they roamed the land at night, attacking civilians at will. I had not expected the danger to escalate so quickly...
"The Vandelians have long since abandoned the village," Aiden continued, "and the Elder Yuana has requested our immediate assistance."
Everyone turned to Link, myself included.
"Then we will go to them," he said. "Theodus and Bryson will accompany me there with a dozen fighters."
"When should we depart?"
Link glanced toward me, and my heart sank when I saw the apology in his eyes.
"We leave tomorrow night."
xxxxxxx
I sat on higher ground overlooking the heart of the camp, hidden in the shadows as I watched the other residents gather for supper. Countless lanterns lit the area, shining through the treetops while soothing music drifted upward, lulling me into a rare state of tranquility.
There were not enough tables for everyone, so most of the younger residents settled on the ground, forming semicircular rows around a group of musicians who sat illuminated by a ring of lanterns. Dressed in bright clothes with glittering trim, they sang stories of adventure and romance—with no small amount of comedy. I listened with keen interest, certain I had heard them perform for the royal court.
They must be among the best performers in Hyrule… but what are they doing here?
Link had encouraged me to participate in the gathering, but I preferred to observe from afar. Supper was far more than a meal for these people; it was a social gathering, undoubtedly one they looked forward to every day… I could not bring myself to intrude upon it, not until I knew how they felt about me.
Link had also insisted I eat supper without him, and that much I had done for the baby's sake. Heather had invited me to sit with her and Adam, but I had politely refused, letting her enjoy the evening with Adam. She had looked so happy, so relieved to be away from the castle and reunited with her love. So I had taken supper early in my tent before venturing along the outskirts of the camp, careful to keep its twinkling lights well within my sight. Resisting the urge to climb a tree, I found a safer perch with a perfect view, and there I awaited Link's return.
He had left for Kakariko as the sky began to darken, though for what reason I had yet to find out.
"I'll explain when I return," he assured me. Just relax and don't worry—I won't be long."
Needless to say, I was worried.
I knew he had taken the Ocarina, but more than three hours had passed since he left—well beyond the time I expected.
I should never have let him go without telling me more… Maybe Darunia can tell me something…
With that thought I climbed to my feet and stretched, ready to begin my descent, when a familiar sensation pricked my spine—the feeling of being watched. I barely registered the change before a pair of arms slipped around my waist, embracing me from behind.
"There you are," Link murmured in my ear. "May I ask why you're hiding up here, Sheik?"
I relaxed against him with a sigh, closing my eyes when he kissed my cheek.
"There you are," I replied, running my hands along his arms. "May I ask what took you so long?"
Link sighed against my shoulder. "Didn't I tell you not to worry?"
"And I told you that's impossible. You'll be the death of me someday, you know."
"Don't say that, even in jest," he scolded, tightening his hold on me. "How are you feeling?"
"Much better, now that you're here."
"And why are you perched up here all by yourself? The minstrels were prepared to welcome you."
"You know why," I said softly.
Link breathed another sigh. "That's all in your head, darling…"
"You don't know that."
"I'll prove it to you. Tomorrow we'll participate together, all right?"
"I suppose it would be rude to refuse them… but I'd much rather spend the time with you, before you take off again."
"I'm sorry I have to leave so soon," Link murmured, "I want to stay; you know I do. But I've been away too long already. The others have been more than forgiving."
I felt a pang of sorrow, realizing he meant his recovery after the cleansing. "Do they know you were ill?"
"No. Impa and Darunia handled that."
"Why must you hide it from them? Do you doubt their loyalty?"
"No, they've had every opportunity to betray me. I trust them with my life."
"Then why so much secrecy?"
Link paused a moment. "...They have risked everything to follow me. I'm the one they turn to when all hope seems lost. So I must be invincible… or at least appear to be."
Gently I turned to face him, saddened by the worry in his face.
"That's much too heavy a burden," I whispered, lifting my hands to caress his shoulders. "Even for you…"
"I feared it would be," he admitted. "But it's better now. The Sages helped me recover… and I have you. Just knowing you're safe, and knowing blessed we are… It's easier to be brave."
"Link…"
"My only true regret," he added, taking my hands in his, "is that I can't stay with you and care for you. If I am to lead the Resistance, I must deny you, even abandon you…"
"You're doing no such thing," I soothed. "We have always been torn between our duties to Hyrule and to each other. This baby doesn't change that."
"That's not true," he said softly, reaching for my cheek. "My duty to you and our child is very important, and I won't put that aside, not for any reason. I know you're scared, Zelda… I would never leave you unless I knew you were in the best hands available.
"That's why I went to Kakariko," he added, tracing the curve of my cheek. "I've arranged for Cleia to come here and look after you."
I stared at him, feeling something loosen in my chest. "Cleia…?"
"Clef's sister—she's the best midwife in Kakariko—"
"I remember," I whispered. "But… But what about her family?"
"They might come as well—they're still sorting that out, but I've arranged to meet her in the graveyard tomorrow morning. She was willing to do this Zelda; I didn't force her. Din knows I was ready to beg her, but she let me keep my dignity."
I choked out a laugh, feeling as though a great burden had been lifted from my shoulders. "Link…"
He drew me into his arms, tenderly stroking my hair as I clung to him.
"I need you to promise me something," he said softly, lifting my tearstained face to his. The firelight cast a faint glow upon his tired face, reminding me of the night I discovered him in Castletown all those months ago.
"Anything," I whispered, tightening my arms around his waist.
"Promise me you will not leave this camp… no matter what happens."
I blinked. "Of course… I know I can't leave."
"Do you?" he murmured, giving me a sad but knowing look.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that no matter what happens, no matter how many people need help, and no matter what happens to me… you will stay here in this camp."
I pondered the gravity of his request, feeling the knot in my chest tighten. "But…"
"But nothing," Link said gently, cupping my cheek. "Right now, your only concern should be protecting yourself and the baby. I know you don't want to hear this, but you are vulnerable right now… You cannot come to anyone's rescue—not even mine."
I gazed up at him, too unnerved to even bristle at his words.
"You're vulnerable too," I whispered, pressing my hand to his scar.
"Yes," he admitted sadly. "But you know that changes nothing."
I hesitated, letting my hand fall from his chest as frustration welled up inside me. Emotions tightened my throat, growing more and more painful until I released them with a desperate plea.
"You must take the Ocarina," I said, clutching his wrists. "And you must promise to use it if you're in danger… Or I promise nothing."
He studied me a moment, then gave me a sad, crooked smile.
"Fair enough," he said, lacing his fingers with mine. "I promise to take the Ocarina if you promise to stay in the camp."
"You must promise to use the Ocarina," I insisted, holding his gaze.
Link sighed. "If there is no other way, then yes, I promise I will use it."
"Then I promise I will stay here," I said quietly, "...no matter what happens."
He leaned in to kiss me softly. "Thank you," he whispered.
Tenderly I kissed him back, bringing my arms around his neck as he drew me closer. Inside I suppressed a growing sense of dread, praying that our agreement would prove unnecessary, that I would not face the temptation to break my word.
