Ningan's eyes snap open to daylight. So his worst fears ring true…the Count is indeed holding Imogen hostage in the dismal dungeons of his distant hideout. Thankfully, she is alive and well…for now. How long would it be until Caedis lost his patience?
He rolls over the mattress, expecting to find Laurel sleeping. Instead, he is faced with loneliness.
He draws back the curtains and lets the morning sun shine through. Hungry for the fresh winter breeze, he unlatches the window and sticks his head outside. The Commander's view of the town square is unparalleled: he can hear the buskers and their lutes down below, and pick-out the faces of passers-by as they dash towards the market.
Ningan closes the window and dresses himself in the mirror. His bright-eyed reflection stares back after a good-night's sleep. This would perhaps be his last night of luxury: at least for the coming days. From here on, they would be erecting tents and slumming-it in sleeping bags.
The sudden opening of the door causes him to jump with fright. Laurel strolls into his bedroom and halts at the sight of the half-dressed man standing before the mirror.
"Oh, you're finally awake. Hurry up and get dressed! The Princess has summoned us for an important meeting!"
The knight grabs the notepad on his bedside table and vacates the premises, leaving his companion to scramble into his attire.
The mahogany doors to the Castle's Conference Hall are thrust open. A new man boldly strides towards the rectangular table in the centre: hair combed-back behind the bandanna on his forehead, clean clothes, and an eager-eyed readiness.
He greets the congregation one-by-one. Firstly, the Royal Diplomat; freshly-trimmed black hair clipped into place with a golden butterfly clip. Dakota's cheeks beam with joy upon his arrival. Secondly, the Royal Scholar; his gold-framed spectacles perched upon the tip of his nose, ready for business. Ezra bequeaths him a welcoming nod coupled with a smile. Thirdly, the Royal Commander; his glossy blonde hair, cleanly-shaven jawline, and gleaming golden armour are a dazzling contrast to the man he left back in Ordon Village. Laurel casts him a daring wink across the table. Finally, dominating the head of the table in the glory of her dignified, golden-armed throne; Her Royal Highness Princess Zelda of Hyrule.
"Ningan." she rises from her seat and welcomes him with a warm handshake. "It is a pleasure to see you again after all these months. Congratulations on all you have achieved. Nazo sings your praises to me every day. Even I am astounded that you successfully obtained three of the lost Sage Medallions."
"I am honoured to hear your kind words, Princess." Ningan bows. "Now, let's get down to business. What have you summoned us here for?"
"Yes, yes, let's…" the ruler reclaims to her position as chair. "I have gathered the four of you here to discuss the next step of your assignment. I have received intelligence that one of our agents is being held captive in the base of the notorious villain that has been troubling us for the past year."
"And not only that," Laurel chimes. "But he has also threatened another of our agents with an ultimatum, utilising his captive as blackmail."
"As a result of her investigation, she has become entangled in his malicious web of manipulation, and it is our responsibility to save her." Ningan affirms.
"We believe we have successfully identified the location of the Count's base of operations as none other than Snake Peak," Ezra declares. "An abandoned mansion, originally founded by one of the four Champions, situated in the mountain ranges to the far north-west of Hyrule."
"The peaks are bitterly cold and sustain little life." Dakota adds. "Before we proceed, it is imperative that we prepare suitable clothing and stock up on supplies."
"I also expect the Count will be awaiting our arrival." Laurel interjects. "As such, we must ready for battle."
"Caedis doesn't stand a chance." Ningan smirks.
"That's the courageous spirit that Hyrule needs right now." the Princess beams with pride at her courtiers. "I shall leave you to gather all the preparations and supplies you require for your mission. Please help yourself to whatever you need from the Castle's Kitchens, Apothecary, and Armoury. Let me know when you intend to embark – I will meet you in the Castle Courtyard."
