Chapter 12
She decided that she just had to get out of Hyrule. Thinking about it, Zayna realised that that is what she should have done in the first place. Not try and find the Hero of Time. Not try and learn how to fight expertly so that she could defend herself. No, she should have just left the country as fast as possible. The further away she got from Chalance Vance and the King, the safer she would be.
She mused on the irony of that. Here she was, still in Hyrule Market Town, right under their noses. Still. They would never dream of searching for her here, would they?
With a deft hand, she swept up two empty glass mugs, while wiping the table down with the other. The mugs still had traces of foam pooling at the bottom and clinked as she took them to the bar. She had decided to get a job waiting tables in the tavern primarily because she needed the rupees to equip herself before she travelled. Once she had enough money she would embark to one of Hyrule's ports and get on the first ship out of there. She did not know where she would go, but at the moment she no longer cared.
The voices that carried across the tavern were gentle and calm. She had picked the place deliberately. The tavern only sold the popular and refreshing milk from Lon Lon Ranch. The people that frequented this place would not be the type that would cause trouble. And trouble was something she wanted to keep away from for the time being.
She hardly ever left the place anyway. She had managed to convince the tavernkeeper to let her have a room to herself in the upper quarters. The 'keeper had been reluctant and grumbled about it, but had eventually caved in when she let him take a cut of her wages as rent. Only once or twice had she snuck out, heavily disguised, to buy weapons and supplies that she rushed to her room before anyone noticed her.
Zayna stood behind the counter, washing the mugs. As was her usual habit now, she kept her ears open to catch the local gossip. Mostly, she was on the lookout for any information about any possible search for her, unlikely that it was that ordinary people would know of such thing. There were other things too that she heard. Things that troubled her.
Two men at a table nearby caught her attention. "The King be wanting all healthy men to report for duty, have ye heard?" one of the men said.
There was a snort, before his friend replied. "Aye, but the King can go to the Pit for all I care. I got a wife and kids to feed. I got no time for silly wars with people I never met."
She was now well aware of the war between Hyrule and the Freelander Emirate. No battles had taken place yet as both sides were still preparing. Peeking from the window of her room, she had seen soldiers train and had watched as Guards were extra vigilant in letting people in and out of the town.
This war puzzled her though. Despite outnumbering the Freelanders, Cyle was still going up against a highly skilled warrior race. He may win, but not without heavy losses. What then was the point?
"'Tis true," the first man continued. "I hear they're preparing the navy to move out within the week. Rumour has it that the King and his allies are planning the first strike. An attack against a Freelander port."
Zayna started to feel uneasy hearing that. The tavernkeeper leaned across the counter to her, his expression annoyed. "Stop dawdling, woman," he said. "Get those glasses clean as quick as possible and get back out serving."
She felt the hint of anger running through her veins and stilled it. She knew her position here and she knew it was temporary. Losing her temper here was useless. Surprised, she congratulated herself on being able to slightly control her ire.
She glided out into the forest of tables, chairs and people. One or two men glanced at her, but their gaze did not linger. She was grateful for that. They seemed to be good men, those that came here. Winding her way around the room she spotted someone raise a hand wanting assistance. She took the long way round, so she would pass within earshot of the two talking men.
The first man's friend was talking again. "Aye. An attack. Good luck to them, I say. But count me out."
"Come on! Where's your sense of duty? Your love for crown and country?"
"I loved the Queen," the friend's voice was bitter now. He sniffed, taking a mouthful of milk before saying; "I don't see anyone deserving of my love now."
Zayna had heard the rumours about how the Queen had been caught with the Freelander Prince in a compromising position. She had been Zelda's Advisor for many months and she did not believe a word of it.
"That's dangerous talk my friend," the first man said. "You had better keep those things to yourself."
"Why?" his friend asked indignantly. "You know it's true. We all know it's true."
"True or not, now is not the time or the place to say it."
There was a pause, before the friend whispered. Zayna had to strain to listen. "Aye, you're right. Anyway, I have to get to the ports, get my last bit of trade in. Have ye heard? Once the navy moves they're not going to let any ships in and out of port except for special circumstances."
That was all Zayna had to hear. She took a customer's order; only half listening to their words. Dread had clutched at her heart. She had to get to a port before the navy struck. Mentally, she made a calculation of how much she had saved. The answer was not encouraging. But it would have to do.
Time was running out. She had to leave. Today.
*
Her marriage had been a sham. Zelda watched the rhythmic hammering of a Goron blacksmith as he forced a glowing, orange metal bar into shape. Heat radiated from his work in waves, making her brow sweat. She continued to watch, not really interested, but just to have something to do. The steady clank of the hammer felt strangely soothing to her.
Darunia and Tyron were locked in the Throne Room, pouring over ancient, tattered scrolls trying to find some hint of a clue that could help them in their predicament now that the Counter Key was gone. She did not know where the Prince and Link were. At the moment that was the least of her concerns.
Cyle had used her, married her just to set into motion his plan for conquest. She recalled every happy memory she had had with him, every gift, every sweet word and now each felt like a bitter dart piercing her heart. Lies. It had all been lies.
What astounded her the most was the depth of the deception. He must have been planning this for summers, even before he had even met her. The man had killed Malon long before they had even married.
Malon. Her best friend, bar Link. Cyle had taken her away from Zelda. Had driven Link away from her for so many summers. Her lip curled in disgust. How had she let herself be so easily fooled? How much had she lost because of this man? She closed her eyes as the pain increased. How much more would she lose to him?
She felt a gentle hand on her shoulder and she slowly turned.
"Prince Chizan," she said in greeting, slightly disappointed that it had not been Link. Her voice sounded lifeless even to her.
"Your Highness," he replied. "Walk with me a while."
She let him guide her by the arm, silent for a while as they watched the infants play and the people chat. Finally he said, "The Hero of Time wishes to find the Key. He believes that she is with the King."
Zelda was perplexed at this. "How does he know that?"
She had not had time to speak with Link since they had all met with Darunia. Truth be told, she had not really wanted to talk to anyone. She needed some time to herself.
"I do not know," the Prince replied. "He is quite certain, however, that this 'Zayna' of yours is the Key."
Chizan stopped to pick up a ball that had bounced into his path. Two children waited shyly, not wanting to ask him for it back. Smiling, he gently threw it at one of them who caught it with a wide grin.
"I believe him," the Prince continued.
"And why is that?"
He turned to her, his purple eyes thoughtful. "I think he has met her. I think he knows her."
"Why hasn't he said anything?" she asked.
The Prince gave a small shrug. "You should ask him yourself." He was silent for a moment before adding, "What are your plans now? Do you still plan to go to Morolak?"
Zelda sighed. The five days her ex-husband had given her to leave had passed. She just had had far too much to digest and could not reflect on her original intentions. "Cyle's plans depend on him holding the Key and conquering the Terrestrial World. If Link thinks he can find the Key then so be it. I can do my part by making sure that Cyle does not rule here. I will still sail for the Morolak Kingdom." She swallowed, trying to find order to her thoughts. "Prince Chizan, I need the Emirate and the Morolak Kingdom to be bonded as allies. We cannot make a separate defence against Hyrule. We must be united."
"Under the circumstances, I think that a union would be possible," he said, surprising Zelda. She had thought that he would be a little wary of any alliance. "However, I think I should accompany you on your journey." She was a little bothered by the insistence in his voice.
"I have Tyron with me," she said. "I need you in the Emirate to co-ordinate any possible treaty with the Morolaks."
The Prince did not reply, but did not look happy either. She had no time for his wounded pride now. The situation was far too delicate.
"Is Link going to go straight to the castle?" she asked.
"He says he has a village to go to. To meet with some old friends he made a promise to," the Prince said. "After that, he will go to the castle."
"On his own?" she said, her throat tightening. She was not prepared to lose Link to Cyle. Not now. Not ever. "I do not like it."
"Perhaps the friends he goes to meet will aid him ..,"
"Maybe. But I think we should all go to this village. Afterwards I will find a safe port to sail from. You can accompany me there if you wish, Chizan. But after that, I go to Morolak and you go home."
Chizan sighed, but gave her a small smile. "As you command, Your Highness."
They noticed a commotion by the entrance to the Throne Room and paused to see what was the matter. A young Goron was crying, his face stricken.
"The King .. it's the King .. he's.," he gulped, trying to talk between sobs.
Ice clouding her heart, Zelda marched to the Room, the Prince a few steps behind her. Entering, she heard the soft murmur of quiet weeping. Tyron looked up at her, his eyes and face stretched. He was kneeling besides the statuelike form of Darunia who was laying on the floor, his skin now dark grey and his eyes lifeless.
Hanging on a chain around his neck was the Ocarina of Time. She had given it to him for safekeeping about ten summers ago. There were blocking spells around it now so that no one could use it.
Zelda brought her hand to her mouth. Too much. Far too much hurt within just a space of two weeks. She looked up to see Link enter the room. His face was dull like he too had had to use up all his emotion too quickly.
"There was nothing I could do," Tyron said, as Zelda sank to her knees and took the Goron King's hand in hers. "He just collapsed and then .."
Zelda took in deep breaths as she felt the room spin slowly around her. Something inside her heart flared. Something small, but burning hot. She was sick of the pain. Sick of the hurt her ex husband had brought to her treasured land and beloved friends.
It was time for her to hit back.
*
"I still cannot believe she got away so easily," the King said, his voice was measured but hinted at something else. Chalance Vance cared little for his liege's suspicions. He would get the Key back and when he did he would break her arms and legs so she could not escape again. Besides, all he needed was her blood, it mattered little if she was whole or not.
"I apologise, sire," Vance said, putting on his most ingratiating tone of voice. "It was truly all my fault. We will find her."
They were walking through the streets of Market Town, surrounded by a dozen accompanying soldiers armed to the teeth. People stopped and stared. Some called out to friends and kin to tell them that the King was taking an inspection. The usually noisy town was now reduced to hushed whispers.
Cyle turned to him, his eyes rigid. "We must find her, Vance. I have no time for this. I am impatient and want to get the last stage of my plan underway."
His plan? Vance thought not. Yes, he would help the King get the Key and he would help him to the Gate, but once the Gate was open Vance would be able to fulfil what he had waited many, many long summers to do.
"How goes the war effort?" the King asked.
"Our allied fleet have set sail. We have invasion parties ready. Once we take one port we will be able to enter Freelander space."
"Any news on Zelda?" Cyle asked, his voice wavering as he spoke. The fool still had feelings for that worthless woman. Pathetic.
"There has been no sight of her since she entered Goron territory," Vance answered. "She may still be in Hyrule."
Cyle pursed his lips. "I do not like the sound of that. The longer she stays here, the easier it is for disparate elements to rally around her."
"Do you still wish that the decree for her head be enforced? There are still mercenaries waiting at the foot of the mountain waiting for the word."
The King lowered his head, thinking with his eyes closed. Vance waited, letting his gaze pass over the people. Such wastes of lives. They had no sense of anything greater than satisfying their own needs. It disgusted him to be just near such creatures. Look at them. Staring wide-eyed at the King and feigning affection. In reality they just wished to be in the Cyle's place themselves.
He caught the sight of someone moving at the back of the crowd. He could not tell if the person was male of female, so heavily were they cloaked. There was something familiar about them though. Something about their posture.
Vance looked back at his still-pondering liege. He let out his breath in annoyance. How could this man aspire to be bathed in the Joining if he could not let go of his weak feelings? The sorcerer hated using up his magic for trivial things, but it was time to give the King a little push.
Imperceptible to the onlookers, Chalance Vance flicked his hand quickly. The King's head jerked up as if he had had an epiphany.
"Yes," he said, his eyes glassy. "Kill her. Kill anyone with her. All of them."
*
Night had fallen and the air chilled. Zayna checked her possessions. She had managed to purchase a used sword, crossbow and hookshot, but had little left over to buy a shield or anything more than a few arrows.
She opened the window letting the cool wind breeze over her. The Town Square was virtually deserted save for a few patrolling guards. She looked over at the Town wall that enclosed the Market. She saw the glow of torchlight by the gate, knowing that the guards there checked the papers of all those coming and out. She, however, had no papers. She would have to find another way out.
Creeping down the passageway, she paused to listen at the tavernkeeper's door. Hearing the soft snore of the man asleep, she made her way to the stairs.
It was completely dark, but Zayna had made sure that she had memorised a path out of the tavern. She had measured everything by paces and counting to twenty-five, she turned sharply right and walked down the stairs.
Thirty steps. Turn right again, dodge the table. Three paces left, missing the counter. Straight ahead for fifty paces. Turn left. Miss another table. Turn right. There. The door.
Reaching for her belt, she pulled out the counterfeit key that she had had made earlier in the day. She had been surprised by the unexpected tour by the King and his Advisor. Feeling safe because of her cloak she had tried to make her way as inconspicuously as possible. There had only been a moment, a heartbeat of terror when she had felt certain that she could sense the Advisor's icy gaze upon her. The feeling had passed quickly, but it had unnerved her.
Gently opening the door, she stepped outside. There was some pale light from the moon and a few torches still burned, but mostly it was pitch black. Good. That suited her fine. Still cloaked, she hugged to the shadows and made her way to the Town wall.
Walking up an embankment, the grass crunched under her boots. She winced. Every little sound felt like it was amplified a thousand times over. Glancing to the right she saw the gatehouse in the distance and heard the faint sound of bellowing laughter. Looking back up, she tried to guess how high the wall was. It was made of a whitish rock and was lined with cracks. It looked like it would crumble at a touch, but she knew it was far sturdier than that.
Her eyes darted left and right, checking to make sure no one was about. Holding her arm steady, she took aim with her hookshot. The spear flew out with a metallic jangle, and then pierced the top of the wall with a 'clunk'. Her heart thudded. The blasted thing was far too loud. Surely, someone must have heard that?
As if on cue, she heard faint footsteps coming from somewhere behind her. Glancing over her shoulder she saw the glow of a torchlight peek out from beside a house nearby. They had not seen her yet, but clearly had heard something.
Angrily pressing the activation switch on the hookshot, she flew upwards before coming to a sharp stop at the top of the wall. She scrambled over the edge just as she heard the person round the corner.
Zayna waited, holding her breath painfully. The space at the top of the wall was wide enough for two, so she laid flat on her front clutching her hookshot and trying not to even breath too hard. She gritted her teeth and felt blood pound into her ears. She heard soft footfalls from below and the crackling of a torch. A heartbeat. A second. Finally, she heard the footsteps fade away and she let out a breath, relaxing her grip on the hookshot.
She stood, looking out over the edge at the dark moat on the other side. A movement at her feet caught her eye. She peered down at the flat roof of the wall. Something was not right. Up here, the floor seemed to be stirring. Something hissed.
She saw them and took a step back in shock. Skulltulas. The floor was layered with the bone coloured arachnids. What a fool. She should have realised that they would not leave this area unprotected. One of the creatures jerked towards. Instinctively, she moved backwards. And stepped into thin air.
Zayna had no time to register the shock as she saw the wall spinning past her at dizzying speed. The moat hurtled towards her, dark and menacing, as the wind whistled through her hair. She pressed the activation switch on the hookshot and heard the chain whirr out. The spike caught on something and she felt her arm tear from its socket from the force. She bit down on her tongue to prevent her from screaming out. Crashing into the wall, she tasted blood in her mouth.
Zayna had to move fast, despite the pain and the wooziness. Using the hookshot as an anchor, she pushed against the wall with her legs and glided outwards. Arm still throbbing, she peered downwards to see that she was still hovering over the moat.
She swung back towards the wall and, when she reached it, pushed out again. This time she arced wider and saw grass below her. This was it. The wall loomed towards her as the momentum brought her back. Tensing her leg muscles, she gave one final push.
She watched the moat drift slowly under her, the waves floating lazily. She heard the gentle sound of running water. Then she caught the flash of green. Releasing the hookshot, she fell to the ground, hitting her head and sending needles of pain up her arm.
Zayna stood slowly, gingerly holding her arm. She smiled sourly to herself. Another day, another great escape.
*
The party galloped out of Kakariko Village into Hyrule Field. Link felt the warmth of the sun on his back and the wind in his face. His heart soured. Just to be doing something made him in high spirits. Chitz bounced up and down behind him, snoozing away. They were headed towards Lon Lon Village to keep the tryst he had made with Fran.
The previous night had been Darunia's funeral. The Gorons had buried their Big Brother in a cavern deep in the mountain as lava flowed around them and dropped from the ceiling. It had been a grim night and Zelda had wept uncontrollably.
He flicked a glance over at the Queen now. She galloped ahead of the rest of them like she was driven by otherworldly forces. The expression on her face frightened him. The hardness of the lines of her face, the intensity in her eyes and the straightness of her mouth. Something stirred within him and all of a sudden he was gripped by the intense desire to do something, anything to make her feel happy.
The feeling of helplessness now soured his mood. He looked at her again and she surprised them all by coming to an abrupt halt. He pulled on his reins and gazed at her quizzically.
"Chizan, how quickly could you get a small force into Hyrule?" she asked the Prince.
The Prince stroked the head of his horse as he considered the question. "A small force should pose no problem. The only difficulty would be how to hide our .. ah ..distinctive features."
She gave a small nod and her face frowned in thought. Link had been told that Hyrule and the Freelanders were now at war. What he could not fathom out was why. He had tried asking his friends, but they had given him vague answers. It seemed to him that they were avoiding the issue.
"What are you scheming, Your Highness?" asked Tyron.
She smiled at the old man and so genuine was the emotion behind it that Link could not help but smile along too.
"I am not 'scheming'," she said, her tone between a scold and amusement. "Tyron, you remember what happens every third week at the castle?"
"Yes, the trade caravan comes from three countries. Loaded with spices, gold and silk. Quite the event."
"What of it?" asked Chizan, puzzled. "You wish to go and trade?"
Link understood. "You plan to attack the caravan, don't you?" he asked. He felt a hint of pride. She had changed a lot, but was still capable of pleasantly surprising him.
She grinned at him and her eyes sparkled. "Well said, Link. Yes, most of Cyle's wealth comes from that caravan. We hit that but once and it will hurt him." Her tone hardened slightly. "Hurt him a lot."
Link chuckled. "Wonderful. Can't wait to see his face. Take that, fiend!" He drew his sword and started thrusting it theatrically. Zelda giggled and he grinned at her.
"Patience, Hero," said the Prince. "It would be a difficult task, Your Highness. Much planning would need to be undertaken."
"Difficult, but not impossible," said Zelda. "But if you do not wish to do it, you do not have to. I can ask the Morolaks or," she turned to Link and winked at him with a smile. "I'm sure the Hero of Time could lead an assault party at a moment's notice."
"The Freelanders are more than willing to carry out this task," said Chizan, his voice steely. Link was mildly amused at his discomfort. He also felt slightly relieved that Zelda was a little bit more animated now.
They appeared out of seemingly nowhere, somersaulting out from behind rocks and from trees. Caught by surprise, the group huddled together. Link still had his sword in his hand and he pushed his horse forward a bit so that his sword would be between Zelda and the newcomers. She already had her hand on the hilt of her sword anyway.
"Halt," one of the men said. Their clothes were tattered, their faces were half covered and they wore dirty red bandanas on their heads. More of them moved out of their hiding places. Link glanced around, taking a quick headcount. Fifteen. Some carried spears; others carried rusted but sharp swords. All looked menacing, their eyes devoid of mercy.
"You are no longer allowed to pass, Your Highness," the man continued.
Link heard Zelda gasp. "You know who I am?"
There was a smirk in the man's eyes. "Yes, I do. The Queen and her Freelander paramour." He spat at the horses' feet. "You have all been marked for death."
Link felt the anger pumping in tune to his heartbeat. Paramour? What lies were these? The man would pay for uttering such dishonourable accusations.
They all got off their horses as the mercenaries closed in around them. Chitz, awoken by all the fuss, scampered under Epona to hide. Link glanced at Zelda. She looked back, a ghost of a smile on her face.
All four of them readied their weapons.
She decided that she just had to get out of Hyrule. Thinking about it, Zayna realised that that is what she should have done in the first place. Not try and find the Hero of Time. Not try and learn how to fight expertly so that she could defend herself. No, she should have just left the country as fast as possible. The further away she got from Chalance Vance and the King, the safer she would be.
She mused on the irony of that. Here she was, still in Hyrule Market Town, right under their noses. Still. They would never dream of searching for her here, would they?
With a deft hand, she swept up two empty glass mugs, while wiping the table down with the other. The mugs still had traces of foam pooling at the bottom and clinked as she took them to the bar. She had decided to get a job waiting tables in the tavern primarily because she needed the rupees to equip herself before she travelled. Once she had enough money she would embark to one of Hyrule's ports and get on the first ship out of there. She did not know where she would go, but at the moment she no longer cared.
The voices that carried across the tavern were gentle and calm. She had picked the place deliberately. The tavern only sold the popular and refreshing milk from Lon Lon Ranch. The people that frequented this place would not be the type that would cause trouble. And trouble was something she wanted to keep away from for the time being.
She hardly ever left the place anyway. She had managed to convince the tavernkeeper to let her have a room to herself in the upper quarters. The 'keeper had been reluctant and grumbled about it, but had eventually caved in when she let him take a cut of her wages as rent. Only once or twice had she snuck out, heavily disguised, to buy weapons and supplies that she rushed to her room before anyone noticed her.
Zayna stood behind the counter, washing the mugs. As was her usual habit now, she kept her ears open to catch the local gossip. Mostly, she was on the lookout for any information about any possible search for her, unlikely that it was that ordinary people would know of such thing. There were other things too that she heard. Things that troubled her.
Two men at a table nearby caught her attention. "The King be wanting all healthy men to report for duty, have ye heard?" one of the men said.
There was a snort, before his friend replied. "Aye, but the King can go to the Pit for all I care. I got a wife and kids to feed. I got no time for silly wars with people I never met."
She was now well aware of the war between Hyrule and the Freelander Emirate. No battles had taken place yet as both sides were still preparing. Peeking from the window of her room, she had seen soldiers train and had watched as Guards were extra vigilant in letting people in and out of the town.
This war puzzled her though. Despite outnumbering the Freelanders, Cyle was still going up against a highly skilled warrior race. He may win, but not without heavy losses. What then was the point?
"'Tis true," the first man continued. "I hear they're preparing the navy to move out within the week. Rumour has it that the King and his allies are planning the first strike. An attack against a Freelander port."
Zayna started to feel uneasy hearing that. The tavernkeeper leaned across the counter to her, his expression annoyed. "Stop dawdling, woman," he said. "Get those glasses clean as quick as possible and get back out serving."
She felt the hint of anger running through her veins and stilled it. She knew her position here and she knew it was temporary. Losing her temper here was useless. Surprised, she congratulated herself on being able to slightly control her ire.
She glided out into the forest of tables, chairs and people. One or two men glanced at her, but their gaze did not linger. She was grateful for that. They seemed to be good men, those that came here. Winding her way around the room she spotted someone raise a hand wanting assistance. She took the long way round, so she would pass within earshot of the two talking men.
The first man's friend was talking again. "Aye. An attack. Good luck to them, I say. But count me out."
"Come on! Where's your sense of duty? Your love for crown and country?"
"I loved the Queen," the friend's voice was bitter now. He sniffed, taking a mouthful of milk before saying; "I don't see anyone deserving of my love now."
Zayna had heard the rumours about how the Queen had been caught with the Freelander Prince in a compromising position. She had been Zelda's Advisor for many months and she did not believe a word of it.
"That's dangerous talk my friend," the first man said. "You had better keep those things to yourself."
"Why?" his friend asked indignantly. "You know it's true. We all know it's true."
"True or not, now is not the time or the place to say it."
There was a pause, before the friend whispered. Zayna had to strain to listen. "Aye, you're right. Anyway, I have to get to the ports, get my last bit of trade in. Have ye heard? Once the navy moves they're not going to let any ships in and out of port except for special circumstances."
That was all Zayna had to hear. She took a customer's order; only half listening to their words. Dread had clutched at her heart. She had to get to a port before the navy struck. Mentally, she made a calculation of how much she had saved. The answer was not encouraging. But it would have to do.
Time was running out. She had to leave. Today.
*
Her marriage had been a sham. Zelda watched the rhythmic hammering of a Goron blacksmith as he forced a glowing, orange metal bar into shape. Heat radiated from his work in waves, making her brow sweat. She continued to watch, not really interested, but just to have something to do. The steady clank of the hammer felt strangely soothing to her.
Darunia and Tyron were locked in the Throne Room, pouring over ancient, tattered scrolls trying to find some hint of a clue that could help them in their predicament now that the Counter Key was gone. She did not know where the Prince and Link were. At the moment that was the least of her concerns.
Cyle had used her, married her just to set into motion his plan for conquest. She recalled every happy memory she had had with him, every gift, every sweet word and now each felt like a bitter dart piercing her heart. Lies. It had all been lies.
What astounded her the most was the depth of the deception. He must have been planning this for summers, even before he had even met her. The man had killed Malon long before they had even married.
Malon. Her best friend, bar Link. Cyle had taken her away from Zelda. Had driven Link away from her for so many summers. Her lip curled in disgust. How had she let herself be so easily fooled? How much had she lost because of this man? She closed her eyes as the pain increased. How much more would she lose to him?
She felt a gentle hand on her shoulder and she slowly turned.
"Prince Chizan," she said in greeting, slightly disappointed that it had not been Link. Her voice sounded lifeless even to her.
"Your Highness," he replied. "Walk with me a while."
She let him guide her by the arm, silent for a while as they watched the infants play and the people chat. Finally he said, "The Hero of Time wishes to find the Key. He believes that she is with the King."
Zelda was perplexed at this. "How does he know that?"
She had not had time to speak with Link since they had all met with Darunia. Truth be told, she had not really wanted to talk to anyone. She needed some time to herself.
"I do not know," the Prince replied. "He is quite certain, however, that this 'Zayna' of yours is the Key."
Chizan stopped to pick up a ball that had bounced into his path. Two children waited shyly, not wanting to ask him for it back. Smiling, he gently threw it at one of them who caught it with a wide grin.
"I believe him," the Prince continued.
"And why is that?"
He turned to her, his purple eyes thoughtful. "I think he has met her. I think he knows her."
"Why hasn't he said anything?" she asked.
The Prince gave a small shrug. "You should ask him yourself." He was silent for a moment before adding, "What are your plans now? Do you still plan to go to Morolak?"
Zelda sighed. The five days her ex-husband had given her to leave had passed. She just had had far too much to digest and could not reflect on her original intentions. "Cyle's plans depend on him holding the Key and conquering the Terrestrial World. If Link thinks he can find the Key then so be it. I can do my part by making sure that Cyle does not rule here. I will still sail for the Morolak Kingdom." She swallowed, trying to find order to her thoughts. "Prince Chizan, I need the Emirate and the Morolak Kingdom to be bonded as allies. We cannot make a separate defence against Hyrule. We must be united."
"Under the circumstances, I think that a union would be possible," he said, surprising Zelda. She had thought that he would be a little wary of any alliance. "However, I think I should accompany you on your journey." She was a little bothered by the insistence in his voice.
"I have Tyron with me," she said. "I need you in the Emirate to co-ordinate any possible treaty with the Morolaks."
The Prince did not reply, but did not look happy either. She had no time for his wounded pride now. The situation was far too delicate.
"Is Link going to go straight to the castle?" she asked.
"He says he has a village to go to. To meet with some old friends he made a promise to," the Prince said. "After that, he will go to the castle."
"On his own?" she said, her throat tightening. She was not prepared to lose Link to Cyle. Not now. Not ever. "I do not like it."
"Perhaps the friends he goes to meet will aid him ..,"
"Maybe. But I think we should all go to this village. Afterwards I will find a safe port to sail from. You can accompany me there if you wish, Chizan. But after that, I go to Morolak and you go home."
Chizan sighed, but gave her a small smile. "As you command, Your Highness."
They noticed a commotion by the entrance to the Throne Room and paused to see what was the matter. A young Goron was crying, his face stricken.
"The King .. it's the King .. he's.," he gulped, trying to talk between sobs.
Ice clouding her heart, Zelda marched to the Room, the Prince a few steps behind her. Entering, she heard the soft murmur of quiet weeping. Tyron looked up at her, his eyes and face stretched. He was kneeling besides the statuelike form of Darunia who was laying on the floor, his skin now dark grey and his eyes lifeless.
Hanging on a chain around his neck was the Ocarina of Time. She had given it to him for safekeeping about ten summers ago. There were blocking spells around it now so that no one could use it.
Zelda brought her hand to her mouth. Too much. Far too much hurt within just a space of two weeks. She looked up to see Link enter the room. His face was dull like he too had had to use up all his emotion too quickly.
"There was nothing I could do," Tyron said, as Zelda sank to her knees and took the Goron King's hand in hers. "He just collapsed and then .."
Zelda took in deep breaths as she felt the room spin slowly around her. Something inside her heart flared. Something small, but burning hot. She was sick of the pain. Sick of the hurt her ex husband had brought to her treasured land and beloved friends.
It was time for her to hit back.
*
"I still cannot believe she got away so easily," the King said, his voice was measured but hinted at something else. Chalance Vance cared little for his liege's suspicions. He would get the Key back and when he did he would break her arms and legs so she could not escape again. Besides, all he needed was her blood, it mattered little if she was whole or not.
"I apologise, sire," Vance said, putting on his most ingratiating tone of voice. "It was truly all my fault. We will find her."
They were walking through the streets of Market Town, surrounded by a dozen accompanying soldiers armed to the teeth. People stopped and stared. Some called out to friends and kin to tell them that the King was taking an inspection. The usually noisy town was now reduced to hushed whispers.
Cyle turned to him, his eyes rigid. "We must find her, Vance. I have no time for this. I am impatient and want to get the last stage of my plan underway."
His plan? Vance thought not. Yes, he would help the King get the Key and he would help him to the Gate, but once the Gate was open Vance would be able to fulfil what he had waited many, many long summers to do.
"How goes the war effort?" the King asked.
"Our allied fleet have set sail. We have invasion parties ready. Once we take one port we will be able to enter Freelander space."
"Any news on Zelda?" Cyle asked, his voice wavering as he spoke. The fool still had feelings for that worthless woman. Pathetic.
"There has been no sight of her since she entered Goron territory," Vance answered. "She may still be in Hyrule."
Cyle pursed his lips. "I do not like the sound of that. The longer she stays here, the easier it is for disparate elements to rally around her."
"Do you still wish that the decree for her head be enforced? There are still mercenaries waiting at the foot of the mountain waiting for the word."
The King lowered his head, thinking with his eyes closed. Vance waited, letting his gaze pass over the people. Such wastes of lives. They had no sense of anything greater than satisfying their own needs. It disgusted him to be just near such creatures. Look at them. Staring wide-eyed at the King and feigning affection. In reality they just wished to be in the Cyle's place themselves.
He caught the sight of someone moving at the back of the crowd. He could not tell if the person was male of female, so heavily were they cloaked. There was something familiar about them though. Something about their posture.
Vance looked back at his still-pondering liege. He let out his breath in annoyance. How could this man aspire to be bathed in the Joining if he could not let go of his weak feelings? The sorcerer hated using up his magic for trivial things, but it was time to give the King a little push.
Imperceptible to the onlookers, Chalance Vance flicked his hand quickly. The King's head jerked up as if he had had an epiphany.
"Yes," he said, his eyes glassy. "Kill her. Kill anyone with her. All of them."
*
Night had fallen and the air chilled. Zayna checked her possessions. She had managed to purchase a used sword, crossbow and hookshot, but had little left over to buy a shield or anything more than a few arrows.
She opened the window letting the cool wind breeze over her. The Town Square was virtually deserted save for a few patrolling guards. She looked over at the Town wall that enclosed the Market. She saw the glow of torchlight by the gate, knowing that the guards there checked the papers of all those coming and out. She, however, had no papers. She would have to find another way out.
Creeping down the passageway, she paused to listen at the tavernkeeper's door. Hearing the soft snore of the man asleep, she made her way to the stairs.
It was completely dark, but Zayna had made sure that she had memorised a path out of the tavern. She had measured everything by paces and counting to twenty-five, she turned sharply right and walked down the stairs.
Thirty steps. Turn right again, dodge the table. Three paces left, missing the counter. Straight ahead for fifty paces. Turn left. Miss another table. Turn right. There. The door.
Reaching for her belt, she pulled out the counterfeit key that she had had made earlier in the day. She had been surprised by the unexpected tour by the King and his Advisor. Feeling safe because of her cloak she had tried to make her way as inconspicuously as possible. There had only been a moment, a heartbeat of terror when she had felt certain that she could sense the Advisor's icy gaze upon her. The feeling had passed quickly, but it had unnerved her.
Gently opening the door, she stepped outside. There was some pale light from the moon and a few torches still burned, but mostly it was pitch black. Good. That suited her fine. Still cloaked, she hugged to the shadows and made her way to the Town wall.
Walking up an embankment, the grass crunched under her boots. She winced. Every little sound felt like it was amplified a thousand times over. Glancing to the right she saw the gatehouse in the distance and heard the faint sound of bellowing laughter. Looking back up, she tried to guess how high the wall was. It was made of a whitish rock and was lined with cracks. It looked like it would crumble at a touch, but she knew it was far sturdier than that.
Her eyes darted left and right, checking to make sure no one was about. Holding her arm steady, she took aim with her hookshot. The spear flew out with a metallic jangle, and then pierced the top of the wall with a 'clunk'. Her heart thudded. The blasted thing was far too loud. Surely, someone must have heard that?
As if on cue, she heard faint footsteps coming from somewhere behind her. Glancing over her shoulder she saw the glow of a torchlight peek out from beside a house nearby. They had not seen her yet, but clearly had heard something.
Angrily pressing the activation switch on the hookshot, she flew upwards before coming to a sharp stop at the top of the wall. She scrambled over the edge just as she heard the person round the corner.
Zayna waited, holding her breath painfully. The space at the top of the wall was wide enough for two, so she laid flat on her front clutching her hookshot and trying not to even breath too hard. She gritted her teeth and felt blood pound into her ears. She heard soft footfalls from below and the crackling of a torch. A heartbeat. A second. Finally, she heard the footsteps fade away and she let out a breath, relaxing her grip on the hookshot.
She stood, looking out over the edge at the dark moat on the other side. A movement at her feet caught her eye. She peered down at the flat roof of the wall. Something was not right. Up here, the floor seemed to be stirring. Something hissed.
She saw them and took a step back in shock. Skulltulas. The floor was layered with the bone coloured arachnids. What a fool. She should have realised that they would not leave this area unprotected. One of the creatures jerked towards. Instinctively, she moved backwards. And stepped into thin air.
Zayna had no time to register the shock as she saw the wall spinning past her at dizzying speed. The moat hurtled towards her, dark and menacing, as the wind whistled through her hair. She pressed the activation switch on the hookshot and heard the chain whirr out. The spike caught on something and she felt her arm tear from its socket from the force. She bit down on her tongue to prevent her from screaming out. Crashing into the wall, she tasted blood in her mouth.
Zayna had to move fast, despite the pain and the wooziness. Using the hookshot as an anchor, she pushed against the wall with her legs and glided outwards. Arm still throbbing, she peered downwards to see that she was still hovering over the moat.
She swung back towards the wall and, when she reached it, pushed out again. This time she arced wider and saw grass below her. This was it. The wall loomed towards her as the momentum brought her back. Tensing her leg muscles, she gave one final push.
She watched the moat drift slowly under her, the waves floating lazily. She heard the gentle sound of running water. Then she caught the flash of green. Releasing the hookshot, she fell to the ground, hitting her head and sending needles of pain up her arm.
Zayna stood slowly, gingerly holding her arm. She smiled sourly to herself. Another day, another great escape.
*
The party galloped out of Kakariko Village into Hyrule Field. Link felt the warmth of the sun on his back and the wind in his face. His heart soured. Just to be doing something made him in high spirits. Chitz bounced up and down behind him, snoozing away. They were headed towards Lon Lon Village to keep the tryst he had made with Fran.
The previous night had been Darunia's funeral. The Gorons had buried their Big Brother in a cavern deep in the mountain as lava flowed around them and dropped from the ceiling. It had been a grim night and Zelda had wept uncontrollably.
He flicked a glance over at the Queen now. She galloped ahead of the rest of them like she was driven by otherworldly forces. The expression on her face frightened him. The hardness of the lines of her face, the intensity in her eyes and the straightness of her mouth. Something stirred within him and all of a sudden he was gripped by the intense desire to do something, anything to make her feel happy.
The feeling of helplessness now soured his mood. He looked at her again and she surprised them all by coming to an abrupt halt. He pulled on his reins and gazed at her quizzically.
"Chizan, how quickly could you get a small force into Hyrule?" she asked the Prince.
The Prince stroked the head of his horse as he considered the question. "A small force should pose no problem. The only difficulty would be how to hide our .. ah ..distinctive features."
She gave a small nod and her face frowned in thought. Link had been told that Hyrule and the Freelanders were now at war. What he could not fathom out was why. He had tried asking his friends, but they had given him vague answers. It seemed to him that they were avoiding the issue.
"What are you scheming, Your Highness?" asked Tyron.
She smiled at the old man and so genuine was the emotion behind it that Link could not help but smile along too.
"I am not 'scheming'," she said, her tone between a scold and amusement. "Tyron, you remember what happens every third week at the castle?"
"Yes, the trade caravan comes from three countries. Loaded with spices, gold and silk. Quite the event."
"What of it?" asked Chizan, puzzled. "You wish to go and trade?"
Link understood. "You plan to attack the caravan, don't you?" he asked. He felt a hint of pride. She had changed a lot, but was still capable of pleasantly surprising him.
She grinned at him and her eyes sparkled. "Well said, Link. Yes, most of Cyle's wealth comes from that caravan. We hit that but once and it will hurt him." Her tone hardened slightly. "Hurt him a lot."
Link chuckled. "Wonderful. Can't wait to see his face. Take that, fiend!" He drew his sword and started thrusting it theatrically. Zelda giggled and he grinned at her.
"Patience, Hero," said the Prince. "It would be a difficult task, Your Highness. Much planning would need to be undertaken."
"Difficult, but not impossible," said Zelda. "But if you do not wish to do it, you do not have to. I can ask the Morolaks or," she turned to Link and winked at him with a smile. "I'm sure the Hero of Time could lead an assault party at a moment's notice."
"The Freelanders are more than willing to carry out this task," said Chizan, his voice steely. Link was mildly amused at his discomfort. He also felt slightly relieved that Zelda was a little bit more animated now.
They appeared out of seemingly nowhere, somersaulting out from behind rocks and from trees. Caught by surprise, the group huddled together. Link still had his sword in his hand and he pushed his horse forward a bit so that his sword would be between Zelda and the newcomers. She already had her hand on the hilt of her sword anyway.
"Halt," one of the men said. Their clothes were tattered, their faces were half covered and they wore dirty red bandanas on their heads. More of them moved out of their hiding places. Link glanced around, taking a quick headcount. Fifteen. Some carried spears; others carried rusted but sharp swords. All looked menacing, their eyes devoid of mercy.
"You are no longer allowed to pass, Your Highness," the man continued.
Link heard Zelda gasp. "You know who I am?"
There was a smirk in the man's eyes. "Yes, I do. The Queen and her Freelander paramour." He spat at the horses' feet. "You have all been marked for death."
Link felt the anger pumping in tune to his heartbeat. Paramour? What lies were these? The man would pay for uttering such dishonourable accusations.
They all got off their horses as the mercenaries closed in around them. Chitz, awoken by all the fuss, scampered under Epona to hide. Link glanced at Zelda. She looked back, a ghost of a smile on her face.
All four of them readied their weapons.