How Zelda Got Her Groove Back

by ZeldaRubix

Seven years after the events of Twilight Princess, Zelda is queen. However, she must right the wrongs of the past and help a broken hero heal. What lies ahead for the queen? She will be guided with the help of an unexpected friend. Reupload. Original upload May 2012.

29. Chapter 29

Inspiration: Dhampir, reflections, prisms, "Tree of Life," album by Audiomachine for the 2020 reedit.

Author Note: The second part is complete and I am glad I split this up. Take breaks lol. Reedited 9/13/2020.

Warning: There is a scene in this chapter that might trigger some people. Please use the ~SKIP~ and ~DONE~ option accordingly.

Word Count: 28,653

---

Chapter 29

The Awakening of Twilight Palace, Part 2: Revelations

~SSS~

The truth, Zelda

I was staring out at the forests abutting one of the palace windows, when there was a sudden knock on my door. I was still reeling from the astonishment of the marriage proposal from Link. I couldn't believe we had come so far. Six months ago I wasn't sure I wanted to step outside my castle. Now, I was entertaining the fate of a demon lord, the feelings of my dearest friend, and a marriage proposal that would change the rest of my life. There was no doubt in my mind I was going to say yes to Link. I just needed a more appropriate setting and set of circumstances to do so. I couldn't bring myself to amuse such an idea with the world in peril. In the interim, I needed to remember today was an important day. Midna was finally awake. With that being the case, who now was knocking at my door? Was the queen calling for me already? It had only been an hour since we left her antechamber downstairs. She couldn't have been requesting for me so soon. However, my initial assumption was about to be curtailed.

"Your majesty you have a visitor," one of the guards called out. "It is Prince Elbourne."

I tensed up slightly at hearing Elbourne's name.

"Elbourne," I whispered to myself.

I paused my reply to the door.

Elbourne…

The dragon prince.

My original sin.

The implications of this soon-to-be audience were substantial, more than I was willing to let on. There was a great deal I needed to consider when it came to that man. Elbourne wasn't a cut and dry situation. Nothing with him ever was. His sudden stopover made me contemplate. My abrupt recollection took me back fifteen years, to when I was twelve – to when we were both twelve. It seemed like a different age in Hyrule. At the time, my father, King Daphnes, informed me and my mother that we were going to be visiting the dragon masters. I was intrigued when I heard this news because I recall my father always talking about them, but he never really associated with them when I was younger. I read about them in newsletters, and heard gossip about them as the mavens always gossiped. But, the dragon masters were a mystery to me up to that point. I wanted to know of this enigmatic place where the saurians reigned. Why didn't Hyrule have dragons? Why was there only one locale in the totality of the kingdom where dragons could dwell? I wanted to know these things for myself.

My father explained my inquiries to me rather simply. He stated it would be too dangerous for other species of animals to exist if dragons roamed freely about the earth. I understood that, but then I asked him about the power I had as a Triforce wielder to tame them. He told me though my power was great, it was best not to tempt the goddesses by using it for selfish reasons. And, taming dragons for domestic use was a selfish reason, especially if such actions weren't necessary. There was also the theory forged to me by my father that if I acted recklessly, then Din would have reason to bestow her Triforce of Power on someone who exhibited a desire for conquest… again. If that happened, they too would be able to control dragons. I couldn't imagine a Triforce of Power wielder controlling all the dragons of Dragon Roost. Ganondorf the King of Dragons? That would be a nightmare. My father informed me we needed to be grateful for the lands we had and remember that there was a place for everyone in Hyrule. His lecture also made me understand why a few years prior when King Xavier sent a gift, a plasmasaurian – a red dragon - my father sent it back to Dragon Roost. Considering what I knew now, I understood my father's caution.

Even so, I was excited to go to Dragon Roost. I couldn't wait. My governess told me constantly it was important for me to act like a lady, and be a good role model for the dragon prince. I initially thought that was odd since this would be our first official meeting and we were the same age. I wasn't entertaining a child, or so I thought. My grandmother also informed me of the importance of presenting my best self to the dragon prince. Again, I was puzzled, but I listened dutifully. I was alarmed, however, when my governess lectured me again and told me story after story of Elbourne's misgivings, I was stunned. They seemed endless.

There was the time when Prince Elbourne flew his dragon over an open field and nearly killed a family because he flew too low. There was the time when Prince Elbourne left his hunting party to go hunt in Hyrule alone. That action was considered interloping. The royal elk was a sacred animal only to be hunted by the royal family of Hyrule. It was not to be hunted by another lord. Even so, Elbourne didn't care and went hunting for the elks anyway. His family sent a search party after him and it nearly created an international incident. They went looking for him for two days. There was also the time Prince Elbourne threatened to keep one of his servants chained to a pillar in the dragon pits, because the servant apparently lost one of Elbourne's precious dragon eggs. The dragon pits were unbearable. I had no idea how people even worked down there. Why in the world would he think it was suitable to chain someone to a pillar near lava? I was astonished as the stories went on and on and on. This couldn't possibly all be true. Was the prince really that much of a misfit? Wasn't he only twelve? If so, how were the people of Dragon Roost going to deal with him when he got older? Elbourne was begging for a mutiny if he was this cruel and still so young.

In any such case, I wasn't easily deterred. I considered it my duty to do all that was required of me. If I could be a role model in some way, I would try. I wanted to make my father and mother proud. My mother was particularly excited because her best friend was now the Queen of Dragon Roost. When they lived back in Balaam, they were ladies of the court together. I hadn't seen my mother so happy in a long time. The Queen of Dragon Roost must have been a good friend. My father was also best friends with the king. Though, I found it strange for best friends to not see each other for years in a stretch. Ruling didn't leave much time for a social life it seemed. However, my father told me that when they were younger they were inseparable. I noticed a hint of sadness in my father's eyes when he talked about Xavier, but considering what I knew now, his weariness back then made since. Even so, I was looking forward to the trip.

Upon our arrival, I was staring in awe at the palace in the distance. I had never seen anything like it. I asked my father if the palace was actually carved from the mountain. He told me yes. I was astonished. He chuckled at my amazement. On the other side of Death Mountain, a grand hill side of windows, terraces, and valences appeared. The top of the mountain had edifices that worked as watchtowers, but the bulk of the castle was entrenched in the rock. Even from afar I could see the different stones and minerals that stratified the surface of the palace. If that was the way it looked on the outside, I could imagine what it looked like on the inside. What a sight.

At the gate, we were greeted by the Roostian royal family. They were a marvel. Extraordinarily beautiful people, with the best fashion sense I ever did see. King Xavier was tall and strong. He looked like he could wield a double axe with one hand. He had the blondest hair probably in Hyrule. It was almost white like lightning and it contrasted magnificently with his crystal hazel eyes. I didn't know such eyes could exist. Next to him was Queen Constance. Though she was equally as beautiful, her hair color was the exact opposite. She had long dark brown hair that lingered to her waist and light green eyes. Her features were exquisite, like something from a sculpture. She was lovely and her smile was radiant. In some ways, she looked a little like my mother.

We disembarked from the carriage and I was nervous because I wanted to make a good first impression. I remembered everything my parents, my grandmother, and my governess taught me. I was to be a good role model and a good guest. However, I stopped short when I first saw the dragon prince. I was momentarily taken aback with how beautiful this boy was. I couldn't believe it. I looked to his parents and then to him and felt my heart race. He looked a great deal like his father, but Elbourne's features were more striking, more beautiful like his mother. Where did he get such a perfect face? He wasn't looking at me at the time, and he actually looked upset. Even so, his beauty could not be denied. Was this the misfit everyone talked about? Was he really Dragon Roost's infamous little monster? This perfect looking creature?

I had to shake my head to get my senses back. I was being silly and I knew it. I made sure to appear like a lady. I even wore yellow because it was the color of friendship. Perhaps the dragon prince was so ornery because he didn't have any friends. I wanted to remedy that if that was the case. I walked up to him while our parents got reacquainted. I bowed and greeted him. "I'm pleased to make your acquaintance Prince Elbourne," I said, "I am Princess Zelda." He still didn't look at me, even after my welcome. It took his father chastising him for that to finally happen. I was a little surprised at Xavier's method, but it had the intended effect. Even so, when Elbourne looked my way, he stared at me with wide eyes for a moment. He literally said nothing and was taken aback. I wasn't certain he was okay, so I went up to him and touched his hand softly. "Are you alright?" I asked. Elbourne didn't answer me right away. He gave me the briefest once over. "I'm fine my lady, I'm pleased to make your acquaintance," he said finally. "I'm Prince Elbourne."

That was the start to a very eventful week. Afterwards, Elbourne showed me everywhere, but I never forgot that first day. I felt like that first day was a test. After having supper in the main palatial hall, Elbourne showed me the gardens. I wasn't aware anything could grow this close to a volcano, but apparently I was wrong. The green and red flowers were lovely. They thrived near hot springs. The catch to all this lovely scenery were the frogs that lurked there. I wasn't afraid of frogs, but I wasn't exactly a fan either. They were slimy and wet, with definitive sludge on them. Elbourne showed me all around the garden and I thought it was beautiful. I was having a lovely time when he expertly explained every species by memory. I thought I was in the company of a botanist. However, there was one flower Elbourne told me I should smell up close. It was at the back of the garden. I thought nothing of it. However, when I went to approach it, a huge dragon frog jumped forth. I nearly screamed and Elbourne laughed at my dismay. I stared at him surprised. Through it all, he told me I was fortunate the frog didn't spit on me because the sputum was poisonous. I was stunned. Why would he lead me to such a thing? But, I was determined I would show him. Instead of getting upset and giving into my frustration, I decided to get even.

I then went and chased after the frog. I scooped it up when I caught it and shoved the docile looking creature in Elbourne's face.

"Since you think it's so funny to scare people, why not have a look at it face to face?"

Elbourne was stunned at my rebuttal, and actually studied the little creature up close for a moment.

"You know, I've never had such proximity to it before."

There was a brief silence before both of us surprisingly laughed at each other and he released it. I then went to go catch it again, which surprised the dragon prince.

"What are you doing?"

I was enthusiastic.

"Let's find more just like it!"

It was rather odd I was so willing to play with a poisonous creature. Even so, we spent the rest of the evening chasing frogs. The next day, I was granted the privilege of meeting his dracosaurian Orthella. The previous day must have been a warm up, because that day was more troublesome that I could have imagined. Even so, I couldn't wait to see a black dragon up close. At the start of the day, Elbourne showed me his dragon conservatory, which had all different types of saurians being domesticated and trained. I thought the blue dragons were particularly beautiful because they could blend in with the day sky. However, that also made them dangerous if they attacked. They camouflaged in the blue skies. In any such case, I learned a great deal about dragons that morning. Around midafternoon, after lunch, I was finally going to meet Elbourne's prized dracosaurian Orthella. Orthella was housed in this grand pit that seemed to go on forever at the base of Death Mountain. She was currently sleeping. When I first laid eyes on her, I had no idea her scales were going to be so shiny. She was magnificent. Elbourne was walking ahead of me towards the gate to open it. As the torque sounded, I stopped for a moment.

I suddenly got nervous.

"Do you think this is a good idea?"

He turned and looked at me.

"Of course, why wouldn't it be?"

I bit my lower lip.

"What if your dragon does not like me?"

Elbourne only gave me an intriguing look.

"I hadn't thought of that. Well, then I wouldn't want to be you."

I stared at him surprised. Not the response I was anticipating.

"I beg your pardon?"

He shrugged.

"She might eat you," he said simply, "and if she eats you, I'll know I couldn't trust you anyway."

He looked at me mischievously and smirked. What kind of logic was that? My nervousness tripled.

"You can't be serious."

The dragon prince stopped the torque when the gate was fully opened.

"I am."

I took a step back and was about to turn around.

"I think I changed my mind. I am not certain I want to meet your dragon."

I was going to head back to the palace, when suddenly Elbourne whistled ever so softly. I soon found out why a moment later. Orthella's eyes then opened, and from the pit below she looked up. My eyes widened at her awakening and I stepped back again. When her wings expanded I nearly tripped. Elbourne walked towards the edge of the pit, even as the dragon flapped its wings creating a slight wind turbine. I had to cover my face from the current, as she finally rose from the pit and hovered over the immediate airspace. The two attendants working in the area both looked worried, but didn't readily step forward. I was certain Elbourne would be scathing to them if they said a word. They must have seen this kind of behavior before. They might have been afraid Elbourne was going to take off on an unsupervised flight. Even so, Orthella's wingspan was impressive. She was the grandest creature I had ever seen at that time.

"My word!" I whispered.

Orthella was staring down at me with those crystal green eyes. There was something more to her presence than simply power and might. I attested there was a bit of knowledge there too. I sensed this with the way she curved her head so as to let her master on her back. If she suddenly started talking I wouldn't have been surprised. Even so, Elbourne climbed her back and settled in like he was putting on a pair of boots – like he was dancing. This seemed to be child's play to him, when unironically he was a child at play. Once the prince was comfortable, he stared down at me with a nondescript expression on his face. I wasn't sure what to make of it.

He then formally introduced me to his dragon.

"This is Orthella," he said simply of his dracosaurian.

I stared at the dragon and nodded for some reason.

"Uhhh… I'm pleased to make your acquaintance."

Elbourne rubbed a dragon scale on her back.

"As you might have guessed, she has a bit of an issue trusting people."

I looked from his dragon to him surprised.

"How are you able to surmise that?"

He scoffed slightly and slowly reared Orthella's head.

"She takes on the personality of her owner, me. Here, let me show you."

Slowly, he started walking his dragon towards me. My heart raced and I immediately turned and headed in the opposite direction. At seeing me flee, Elbourne quickened her step.

"What are you doing?" I asked with a hint of panic. "Elbourne, this isn't amusing!"

He smirked.

"I'm surmising," he said simply.

The attendants watching were stunned.

"Your highness, you must stop this!" one of the attendants said. "That is the princess!"

Elbourne ignored him and instead lowered Orthella's head to swoop me up on her back.

"Ahhhh!" I screamed initially.

However, my brief aerial ascent was met with me landing on Orthella's hard dragon scales. It wasn't the most comfortable position as far as landings went, but I wasn't injured either. I was just dumbstruck. Elbourne simply turned and looked at me.

"Are you alright?"

I stared at him in complete disbelief.

"Are you insane? Your dragon could have killed me!"

He didn't seem too concerned.

"But she didn't."

I groaned.

"You're incorrigible dragon prince!"

The attendants watching hurried over to check on me.

"My lady, are you alright?"

I was still seething from Elbourne's malcontent. I finally looked his way.

"I'm fine, I just want to be off of this beast."

Elbourne was slightly offended.

"Orthella is not a beast," he warned.

I shot him a dirty look.

"I'm not interested in what you think!" I then ignored him and looked to the attendants. "Could you please help me down?"

The first attendant reached his hand out to me.

"I have you my lady."

I took his hand graciously.

"Thank you."

He helped me off Orthella, but something surprising happened just then. Out of nowhere, I began to glow a soft light blue color. My Triforce of Wisdom was activating on its own. My grandmother told me this would happen sporadically throughout my adolescence and not to be afraid. I just had no idea it would happen in a situation like this. However, this manifestation did make true what my lineage delineated when it came to having power over the dragons. This was apparent evidence of that. The attendants were staring at me shocked, and soon the one attendant let me go when a hint of fear overcame him. I bore no ill will towards him. I was a bit afraid too. However, when I turned and looked up at the dragon prince staring down from atop his dragon, he too was stunned. The most fascinating thing was yet to happen though. Orthella was staring at me like she was hypnotized: I waved my hand and her head followed, I moved my arm and her head followed again – it was unlike anything I ever experienced. I then walked over to Orthella slowly and touched her snout. It was a gentle touch. She closed her eyes and suddenly my glow subsided. A moment later, she bowed her head. I looked at my hand taken aback, then looked up at the dragon prince once more. He too was at a loss for words, but not for long.

"Amazing," he whispered.

I pulled my hand back and stepped away from her.

"What… what is she doing?" I asked anyway.

Elbourne slid off of his dragon in awe. He walked right up to me.

"Have you always been able to do that?" He ignored my question.

I gave him an obvious look.

"I wouldn't be asking if I did. This is my first time meeting your dragon. Now tell me what is she doing?"

"Obeisance," he said simply. "Orthella is acknowledging you as another rider. She trusts you!"

Elbourne smiled and looked ecstatic. I would have appreciated his excitement more if it wasn't drawn from erroneous circumstances. This was not a laughing matter, someone could have been seriously hurt or killed. However, before we could finish our discussion, the door to the main dragon terrace opened and out from the palace came my father, Elbourne's father, along with ten guards. Both kings looked concerned, and when they saw the closed eyed dracosaurian, their concern only grew.

"What's going on out here Elbourne?" King Xavier demanded. "We heard a scream."

My father stepped forward too.

"Zelda, are you alright?"

I nodded.

"Yes father, I'm not hurt. There was just a bit of a misunderstanding."

All eyes then went back to Elbourne at hearing that.

"Misunderstanding?" Xavier repeated to his son.

Elbourne looked bored for a moment. Then, he did the unthinkable. He attempted to shift the blame.

"The attendants let Orthella out irresponsibly and they scared Zelda with her," he lied.

I stared at him stunned. The poor attendants being accused were taken aback as well. However, Xavier immediately looked to them.

"Are you mad? Why in the world would you do something so stupid? You could have killed the princess!"

Both attendants drew back in fear.

"My lord," they both begged, "please, we would never do such a thing! It is an untruth!"

Xavier narrowed his eyes.

"Are you calling the prince a liar?"

The attendants looked at a loss.

"We would never put words in his mouth," one said carefully, "but his highness is unfortunate in how he is reporting this to you."

This was atrocious. Was Elbourne really going to lie outright and let his servants take the blame for something he did? This was preposterous. I was in no way going to allow this to slide.

"Sire if I may speak," I said and stepped forward.

Elbourne looked my way.

"What are you doing?"

I ignored him.

My father then looked between the both of us.

"What is this about Zelda?"

I kept my attention on King Xavier.

"There has been a grave misunderstanding here. Your attendants are telling the truth. It was not them who released Orthella, it was his highness. In fact, they were the ones who helped me. Why Prince Elbourne feels the need to lie is beyond me. It's craven actually."

There was a brief silence that then befell everyone. The tension was apparent. Xavier cut his eyes to his son.

"Is this true?" he demanded finally.

Elbourne was quiet for only a moment. I could see him glaring at me from the corner of my eye.

"Yes. Yes, it's true."

The attendants looked relieved, but they didn't dare say anything. Instead, King Xavier dismissed them.

"You may both go," he ordered. "See your families for the rest of the evening."

The attendants didn't think twice. They bowed and hurried to the terrace entrance. When the door closed behind them, Xavier maintained his focus on his twelve year old son.

"Why did you lie Elbourne?"

Elbourne was silent. He looked down at the ground.

"It was convenient," he replied smartly.

His father groaned.

"You know better than this. As punishment for your lie you will not ride Orthella for a month and you will have to train your axe with me instead of Lord Batrix."

Elbourne looked up stunned.

"A whole month?" he repeated.

Xavier narrowed his eyes at him.

"Keep this up, and I'll make it two," he warned.

My father and I remained silent while Elbourne was reproved. The frustration was all over Elbourne's face. He had nothing else to say.

"It is to be so then father," he said respectfully.

Xavier stared at his son once more before cutting his gaze to me. He gave me a quick once over.

"Are you sure you're alright my dear?"

I nodded.

"I'm fine really." I then felt compelled to add. "Please don't be too hard on him sire. I don't think he meant any harm."

Xavier looked surprised at my interjection.

"I appreciate your kindness Zelda, but the prince knows better. He'll have a whole month to make sure he never does it again."

It seemed my attempt at a reprieve failed. I looked Elbourne's way and his expression was nondescript. He didn't look too upset to be quite honest. Even so, his father had more to add.

"You are also going to finish the attendants' jobs of tending to the dragons," he went on. "It was your actions that caused this, you will be the one to mend it."

I was surprised at that, but not too surprised. Elbourne said nothing. It was then Xavier was done with his reprimanding and turned and headed with his men back to the palace. He left two guards to stand watch to protect him and to make sure he got all the tasks done. My father was going to head back into the palace too, but he was waiting for me. However, I had a surprising request.

"Do you… do you think I can stay and help him?" I kept my voice low so the king wouldn't hear.

Elbourne looked over at me surprised.

"What?"

My father glanced his way before looking back at me. That probably wasn't what he was expecting either.

"Zelda, are you sure that's what you want to do?"

I nodded.

"I feel like I'm the reason he got in trouble."

My father grinned at me. He looked over at Elbourne again. Elbourne was just as stunned. He then addressed the wayward prince.

"Are you going to look out for her this time young man?" he asked the dragon prince. "Are you done with these falsehoods?"

Elbourne stood erect and looked at my father seriously.

"Yes sir. I apologize, the last thing I would want to do is bring harm to your daughter. I actually really like her already."

Now my eyes widened. This was news to me. Elbourne certainly didn't act like it. Father gave him a knowing look.

"Is that right? Then you need to show it with more honorable deeds."

My father's words were sobering.

"Yes sir," Elbourne replied.

My father then looked at me.

"You have my permission, but I want you back in the palace in an hour no matter if the job is done or not."

I nodded.

"Yes father," I agreed.

With that, my father went back inside, following the lead of King Xavier before him. The two guards were standing watch, making sure we got started soon. I then looked over at Elbourne who was already staring at me. I wasn't sure what to say. This certainly wasn't what I was expecting. I decided just to jump right on in.

"Shall we get started? If you lead, I can follow."

Elbourne didn't reply right away, and when he did, he didn't bother to answer my question.

"Why did you tell my father it was me and not the servants?" he asked all of a sudden.

The interesting thing about his question was that it sounded genuine.

"Because it was a lie," I replied simply. "You cannot live your life telling a bunch of lies Elbourne."

He was quiet again.

"Do you ever lie?"

I looked at him surprised, but then seriously thought about the question.

"I have, but not when it could cost someone their livelihood."

He scoffed.

"You might want to start. If you want to be a good politician you need to be an expert liar."

I was truly dumbfounded.

"Don't you think that approach is cynical?"

He shrugged.

"That's what my father taught me, and my father is the greatest man in Dragon Roost."

I felt a bit bad for him if those were the greatest life lessons he was learning from his father.

"Truth has its place Elbourne."

He nodded.

"True," he replied with no pun intended, "but everybody prefers a lie over truth if it makes them feel better."

I didn't have a clear response to that. In a way, I knew he was right.

Would I really need to lie to be an effective ruler?

"Well, I don't want to give too much credence to that. Let's just get started. What do I need to do?"

Elbourne scanned the area quickly.

"We need to put the ore buckets away. There are about twenty, after that there are the graters that need to be cleaned."

I glanced at him perplexed.

"Graters?" I repeated.

Elbourne thought nothing of it.

"The implements used to breakdown Orthella's food," he explained.

I still had no idea what that was, but I was certain when we came to that it would be a new education.

"Okay," was all I said in reply and took off my gloves.

We started with the buckets, and as we worked I noticed Elbourne staring at me… a lot. I had to finally address him on it.

"What?"

He shook his head.

"In a way I need to thank you. Now I get to spend a whole month with my father uninterrupted."

That was surprising to hear.

"I beg your pardon?"

Elbourne shook his head.

"It's nothing," he said more to himself than to me. "My father is so busy I hardly see him. However, now I get a whole month where I get to see him every day."

I hadn't thought of it that way, but I had no reason to think of it that way before this disclosure.

"You and your father don't talk every day?" I asked anyway.

The prince shrugged as we walked together across the terrace.

"Not really," he admitted. "In fact, we hardly talk at all unless it's to discipline me. I think that's why I have a penchant for trouble. It's the only way I get to talk to my father."

If that wasn't a revelation, I didn't know what was. Elbourne was begging for his father's attention. I was at a loss for words for a moment. I had no idea how to reply. I spent every moment I could with my father and he encouraged me to do so. I couldn't imagine my father not wanting to speak with me. It was very sad actually, and it added a new dimension to the so called 'demon child' he was known for. Even so, if I could find some way to help him I wanted to, especially if he was considering me his friend after only two days. The rest of the visit was completely different from then on. Elbourne was an absolute gentleman when he showed me the sites of his beautiful country. And, when he got out of line, he was willing to be corrected. Some of the servants and staff were astounded. When my family had to leave, Elbourne was genuinely sad. He even attempted to hide me in his closet so I wouldn't go. On our last day together, I promised him I would come back and visit. Then, surprisingly, he hugged me tight. I wasn't expecting it and I hugged him back. I thought that was good progress.

Year after year our relationship grew, but so did Elbourne's cruelty if it went unchecked. I never forgot the man he said he was going to have put to the rack and tortured because he left me alone in a cave when we went on an excursion. I had gotten lost and it took half a day to find me. Elbourne was shocked and relieved when we were reunited, but he was also livid. I had to calm him down so he wouldn't kill the poor man. Instead, he dismissed him from that post and reassigned him to graveyard duty, only after he was stripped naked and put on display for an hour. To this day, I believed the man dug ditches. We were thirteen. I did give him credit, though he could be harsh, Elbourne did work on his treatment of people, especially when we were together. I appreciated his efforts, but I hoped one day he wouldn't need me to guide him when it came to being kind. In a way, there seemed to be some embedded since of vindictiveness within him – an innate nature he was constantly fighting. He told me in private when he was with me he was able to stave it off. One night it nearly culminated in murder when he thought someone was trying to steal his dragon. He bludgeoned the man so badly, he nearly killed him. He came to me that same night cool as a cucumber. I had no idea what happened until after he revealed it to me. I was stunned and immediately told him to send word to the man's family regarding his whereabouts. Elbourne did, and that was what saved his life. He actually paid for all his medical care too. It turned out the man was innocent of trying to take Orthella. The man was merely trying to reinforce the dragon's gate.

We talked constantly about Elbourne's ability to rationalize in a way that made since to his people. However, those conversations were put on hold when my parents died. I felt like I couldn't function when one death came after another. My grandmother went one year after my parents and I felt that one the most. My grandmother was my guiding light, and when I lost her, I felt like I lost my greatest ally. I cried for a month, but Elbourne was there for me every day. He even stopped his entrance into the Dragon Master's Academy. I told him not to, but he insisted. I wasn't going to argue with a determined young man. In any such case, he turned out to be a goddess-send. He helped me through some of my darkest times. I even had a moment where I didn't want to live anymore. Elbourne told me I couldn't be selfish and take my own life because Hyrule needed me and so did he. His reasoning actually made me laugh, but I knew it was coming from a good place. I thanked him and told him I couldn't get through this hard time without him. However, it was then I took advantage of a situation I shouldn't have. I probably ruined our friendship because of it. I basically wanted to have sex with him, but I couldn't bring myself to go all the way. I had my reservations for several reasons, but I was so lonely. I just wanted to feel close to someone. However, the questions did go through my head: what if I got pregnant? Was I ready to be a mother? Did I even know myself yet? I was only sixteen. A week after the instigation by me, I called for Elbourne. At that point, he was head over heels in love with me. I knew that from when he entered my chamber that day. He came up behind me, wrapped his arms around my waist, and hugged me tight. His hold was gentle but firm. He kissed my nape tenderly. He was ecstatic to see me. I still remember the conversation.

"Good afternoon darling," he whispered in my ear.

I stiffened and paused for a moment.

"Good afternoon," I greeted back.

Elbourne hugged me tighter.

"I came as soon as I got your letter. Is everything alright?"

I wasn't sure how to reply to that. My life was in a shambles at that point. Nothing felt right.

"As it can be," I replied anyway.

I turned around in his arms and faced him. His hazel eyes were brilliant in the sunlight. However, before I could utter another word, he leaned in and kissed me. I wasn't surprised with his forwardness, but I could have dealt without it, especially with what I needed to tell him. He kissed me deeply, forcing me to open my mouth to his and respond accordingly. I had to admit I loved the way he kissed me. He was incredibly passionate and attentive. However, considering where our relationship had gone recently, I wasn't surprised. The kiss lingered and lingered, and if we didn't stop soon, I knew where this was going to lead and I couldn't have that. I then pulled away. I didn't let him reconnect when he attempted to kiss me again.

"We need to talk," I whispered finally.

My tone was serious and his expression turned slightly staid with it.

"What's the matter?" he asked. I shook my head and stepped back from his grip. He took note of that immediately. "Are you upset with me about something?"

I shook my head again.

"No, no," I said quickly, "you've been wonderful, a perfect gentleman… maybe too perfect."

He gave me a quick once over.

"What does that mean? How can something wonderful be too perfect?"

I had no reply to that. I then decided to be upfront so no time was wasted.

"I'm… I'm afraid I can no longer see you in the capacity that we once were anymore."

He stared at me taken aback at my utterance.

"Excuse me?"

My heart started beating fast.

"I can no longer see you the way I once did. We have scurried too far from what would be considered acceptable boundaries."

He was staring at me in complete disbelief now.

"You can't be serious."

I had no qualms.

"I'm dead serious. With the rate we were going I could have gotten pregnant."

He took a step towards me.

"So what."

I stared into his eyes.

"We aren't married. I can't possibly have a child as an unwed queen. The scandal would be sensational. I would have to abdicate."

Elbourne had no qualms either.

"Then let's get married. I have no issue with that. I love you."

I was a little shaken with his honesty.

"I can't do that Elbourne. Besides, you're going to be betrothed to my cousin."

He stared at me taken aback.

"I told you, that is my father's doing. It's my choice weather I would want to marry Marin, which you know I would never choose her over you. It has no bearing on the here and now."

I looked away.

"Elbourne, I just... I just can't."

His gaze was intense.

"Why?" he demanded. "It makes the most sense."

I stepped back.

"We're too young to get married," I insisted. "We have goals we must meet individually. You have the Dragon Master's Academy. I have my rites of passage as the Sage of Light. We're on two different paths."

Elbourne did not see that as a roadblock.

"We can meet them together."

I shook my head again.

"I can't Elbourne," I repeated.

He was starting to get upset.

"Why?" he demanded again.

I paused, not knowing how to say what I needed to say but just to say it.

"I'm not right for you. I realize that now."

He gave me an offhanded stare.

"What?"

I shook my head.

"It's true."

Elbourne rolled his eyes and came back up to me.

"Are you mad? You know that's nonsense of which you speak. You're perfect for me. You're the only one for me."

My throat tightened.

"No it isn't nonsense and I'm not perfect for you," I whispered. "I'm not right for you."

He took in a frustrated breath just then.

"Can we discuss this later when we're both calm? I feel this conversation is hyperbolic because we haven't had a chance to clear our heads."

I didn't flinch.

"My head is clear."

Elbourne stared into my eyes.

"You're… you're serious," he said incredulously.

I nodded.

"Indeed I am."

His eyes searched my face.

"Zelda… this isn't funny."

I pursed my lips together.

"I'm not trying to be," I whispered.

There was a brief silence between us where his breathing steadily increased.

"Why are you doing this now? What have I done that you need me to do differently?"

That was an impossible question to answer. I couldn't be with someone who needed reminders on how to be kind. It was exhausting with my parents dead and my own emotional fallout with what I was dealing with. I couldn't take on the added responsibility of keeping a man on the straight and narrow, when he should have known what the straight and narrow was all along. It was too much to ask of me.

"Nothing, it isn't about that."

He shook his head.

"Then I don't understand."

"I don't expect you would."

His frustration was mounting.

"You expect me to just take this from you? I have no say in this whatsoever?"

I avoided his eyes for a moment.

"I'm letting you have your say."

His anger was increasing.

"Oh, is that what this is?" he demanded. "You're allowing me to speak your majesty?! How kind of you."

This was already hard enough.

"Will you stop being sarcastic?" I asked. "This is serious."

He scoffed.

"You think I don't know that!" He then implored me. "I need you! You're the only person in the world who keeps me centered! Who keeps me sane! Why are you doing this to me?!"

My eyes stung.

"I'm not doing this to hurt you," I whispered, "I swear."

He didn't want to hear that.

"Dragon shit! This is about you and your selfishness and you know it!"

I couldn't deny that.

"Yes this is about me," I admitted. "I'm not ready for what marriage could bring us Elbourne. I'm not right for you."

His composure left him.

"Shut up! Shut up right now with your goddamn untruths! Tell me what you really mean!"

I closed my eyes and burst into tears.

"I can't do this!" I nearly shouted. "I can't be your center! I can't be the reason you live! I can't be the reason you die! I can't be the center of your life! I can't be the reason Elly! I can't! I have nothing to give you except pain! It's too much! Don't you understand? It's too much!"

There was an immediate silence between us after that. All I could hear was our breathing and our beating hearts. Elbourne stared at me long and hard before he finally stepped back. I looked to the ground feeling horrible about what I had just done. He was so happy to see me and I ended up breaking his heart. A couple of tears fell from his eyes before he quickly wiped them away. He groaned audibly in frustration, then turned and left. We didn't see each other after that for almost a year. I thought it was truly over back then, and admittedly, I did miss him. However, I knew it was the right thing to do. I cried for a week after our argument. I even caved in a few times and wrote him letters that he didn't respond to. It was then the rumors got back to me about all the girls he deflowered in Dragon Roost and the Red Lantern district. I wasn't surprised, but I was unsettled with how he was handling his pain. However, I knew he was struggling with his dark side once again when he just showed back up in my chambers one night after ignoring me for nearly a year.

I was getting ready for bed and noticed his reflection in my vanity mirror when I was brushing my hair. I got up and turned stunned to see him. I was terrified that he didn't announce himself the way he normally did. He could have been an assassin sent to kill me for all I knew. What was going on with my security? In any such case, he had definitely grown up since I last saw him. His physical conditioning was top notch. I had heard about the rigorous physical training a cadet had to endure in order to become a dragon master. It was like amplified training for the military. But the most telling thing about that encounter was his eyes. His eyes were different that night. I couldn't put my finger on it. Despite that, when Elbourne spoke, he sounded older. "I miss you," he told me. I didn't know what to say except the obvious. "I miss you too," I replied. He stared at me for a long time. "Let's be friends again," he said. I was surprised by the request. I thought we still were, which was probably delusional on my end considering the circumstances. Even so, I reconfirmed it anyway. "We will always be friends," I promised. He didn't say much or stay long after that, but he thanked me before he left. That was a strange occurrence.

It feels like a million years ago now, I thought in the present.

My recollection concluded for the most part. I felt like I was being brought back to that moment when we were sixteen. Was I really going to break his heart again like that? I hoped not.

"Is this déjà vu?" I whispered to myself.

There was another knock at the door due to my prolonged pause.

"My lady?" the guard asked.

I shook my head of my thoughts. This was the opportunity I needed. I needed to tell Elbourne the truth about everything. There was no way I couldn't.

It's time to do the right thing.

"Please send him in," I called back finally.

A moment later, the door opened and in walked Elbourne. I was still staring out the window, before I cut my gaze and turned around to greet him. When I met the dragon prince's gaze he was astounded by my appearance. It was the first thing he commented on.

"My goddess Zelda," he said, shaking his head, "you look amazing."

I smiled.

"Thank you." I walked over to him with outstretched hands and took his into mine when I reached him. "You've been instrumental to our success here in the Twilight Realm and I want to thank you for that."

He shook his head.

"It was nothing. I did essentially invite myself."

I giggled.

"True."

We both laughed, but then got quiet. I gestured to the table where we could talk and we walked over to it and sat down. After he got comfortable, I addressed him.

"What brings you here my friend?"

Elbourne smirked with how I said that.

"Besides your magnificent beauty and you nearly having to break up a fight earlier, nothing," he teased.

I giggled again.

"I suppose that was a silly question."

He agreed.

"Just a bit."

There was a brief silence between us, one where I reached over and grabbed his hand.

"Elbourne… I… I think we need to talk."

He studied my expression before he replied. He nodded.

"I agree. I have been wanting to discuss some things with you."

My heart raced slightly, but I knew it was important.

"Good, would you like to go first?"

Elbourne stared into my eyes.

"I think you know what I'm here to say to you. I've been an open book."

I nodded.

"You have and I'm grateful to you for it."

He raised a brow.

"So grateful for it you don't want it?"

I rescinded my hand when my nervousness grew.

"It isn't that," I then added directly, "Elbourne I can't marry you."

There was another brief silence.

"Why?" he asked simply.

"I'm in love with Link."

He rolled his eyes and looked away.

"A likely story," he said more to himself than to me.

"It's true, the Virtue Key is in effect, I can't lie to you Elbourne. The sooner you believe that the sooner you will be able to move on with your life."

Elbourne milled on that a second.

"Are you certain you would even want me to move on with my life? I've tried that several times before and you've always lured me back to you. Or did you forget about Adle?"

I had no rebuttal for that.

"I was wrong for that, and I promise not to do it again."

Elbourne didn't put too much stock in that.

"Just like you promised before," he said sarcastically.

I shook my head.

"You're making this harder than it needs to be."

He nodded.

"Good, I don't want it to be easy. I want you to seriously think about the decision you're about to make."

That is what he didn't understand.

"I've already made it. I love Link. I am going to marry him."

He stared at me hard.

"So… he finally offered you his hand? Is that what he did when you dragged him off here? Is that what you're telling me?"

I paused, but then eventually nodded.

"Yes," I said finally, "that is what I am telling you."

Elbourne got quiet for a long time before he finally stood up from the table.

"And you're going to marry him?"

I nodded and stood up with him. However, I attempted to temper this situation.

"This doesn't have to be a divisive thing for us Elbourne. We will always be allies."

He closed his eyes and scoffed in disbelief.

"Wow, because that was the reason I came here, right?'

I didn't know what to tell him.

"You're being unreasonable."

The dragon prince shook his head.

"I don't think I am. You are making a hard line decision right now Zelda."

My eyes widened slightly.

"What is that supposed to mean?"

He didn't flinch.

"You're a smart woman. I think you know what I mean."

I groaned in frustration and turned away from him. I walked back over to the window.

"You're incorrigible. You're being stubborn and you know it."

Elbourne soon joined me. I heard him approach. His footsteps stopped right behind me.

"I'm as incorrigible as you are stunning in this dress," he whispered.

My heart raced a little when I turned to face him again.

"Elbourne…" I whispered.

His eyes searched my face.

"I don't want to be your enemy Zelda."

My eyes searched his face.

"You don't have to be."

The look in his eyes was telling.

"This has been years of this back and forth with you. Now that you have everything that you want you feel it's okay to cast me away, isn't it?"

I hated that he was putting it this way.

"I'm not casting you away, you can have any woman you want."

He forced a chuckle.

"Now we both know that isn't true. You being the exception to that rule."

I avoided his eyes.

"I've told you time and again I'm not right for you."

"And I've told you time and again you're wrong."

I shook my head.

"Why don't you understand that?" I pleaded.

"Because you don't make any sense," he rebutted.

I stared at him at a loss for a moment, but then tried to muster up my resolve.

"I have to tell you something," I shifted suddenly. "Something you need to hear."

He stared at me intrigued.

"What's that?"

I met his gaze again.

"You're going to think I'm an atrocious person once I divulge this to you," I reassured. "You'll probably never forgive me."

Elbourne didn't look convinced.

"I'll be the judge of that. Fire away."

I hesitated for just an instant, but then went on.

"I… I've used you for years because you reminded me of the Hero of Twilight," I confessed. "Do you really want to be with a woman who has done such a horrible thing to you?"

Elbourne was quiet as his eyes searched my face.

"Is that all?" he countered.

I stared at him surprised.

"What do you mean is that all? Aren't you shocked?"

He shook his head.

"I've been aware of that fact for some time," he disclosed.

My breathing increased a little.

"You knew?"

"I'm not a fool Zelda, of course I knew, but you really need to ask yourself who reminds you of who. Remember, I knew you first. He is probably just all the things you wanted in me."

There was an uneasy feeling that developed within my gut, because part of what he was saying was true. In the beginning, it did start that way. When I saw Link, I saw Elbourne instantly. How could I not? They could have been twins. All the good the things the dragon prince could have been were already there in Link. It was ironic. However, over time that changed. I just saw Link for who he was. I couldn't lie, Link was my world. I loved the hero more than my own life. Even so, that didn't discount the point Elbourne made.

"It may have started that way," I admitted, "but I have come to see Link for who he was and is as a man. The question bodes: why would you want to be with somebody who has done this to you?"

He shook his head and shrugged indiscriminately.

"Because you're what I want," he whispered. "You're what I've always wanted."

My throat tightened at his tone.

"You deserve better," I whispered back.

"What could possibly be better than a Queen of Hyrule? You tell me."

I was quiet for a moment, but then unwisely decided to bring up a person that had no real bearing in this conversation.

"Midna, There is always the Twili queen."

Elbourne's features suddenly dimmed when he heard that.

"What?" he said with a hint of disbelief.

"There's always-"

"I heard what you said," he interrupted, then took hold of my arms and pulled me to him. "I want you to listen to me carefully. As long as there is breath in my body that is never going to happen, ever. I don't need you acting as a matchmaker for me. It isn't necessary. I am the Dragon Prince. Women flock to me."

I stared at him with a hint of defiance just then.

"Then there is no need to worry about love from me is there? I would only be a-"

"You aren't like anyone else!" he interrupted again. "It's as I've said to you time and again! You're what I want! You're what I've always wanted! I love you goddamn it!"

I stared into his eyes and saw the pain there. I saw the hurt there. I didn't want to do this to him, but I had no other choice. I couldn't look for long and shifted my gaze to his chest.

"I… I'm sorry," I whispered. "I'm afraid I can't help you in that regard."

Elbourne was quiet for a long time before he finally let me go and stepped back. I kept my eyes away from his when he looked me over.

"I hope you're happy with your decision," he said quietly. "Link is a lucky man. I bid you good day."

I felt a hint of nervousness and finally looked up, but at this point Elbourne had turned and was already heading for the door. I couldn't let him leave.

"Where are you going?" I called to him.

Elbourne turned and looked at me with open frustration.

"What difference does it make? Didn't you say all that needed to be said?"

I walked back over to him.

"This doesn't have to drive a wedge between us," I reassured. "I still care about you. I want you to be happy. I-"

"You can stop now," he interrupted. "Save your spiel for someone who wants to hear this. I don't."

I stared into his eyes.

"I mean what I'm telling you."

"I'm sure you do," he said with a hint of sarcasm.

I bit my lower lip when another thought came to mind.

"You're not going to leave the palace are you?"

Elbourne gave me a wayward look at my inquiry, but then his eyes narrowed when he realized what I was implying.

"And if I did?"

"That wouldn't be wise," was all I said in reply.

His expression morphed to one of open disgust and I saw in real time his eyes darken. I wasn't sure what was going on there, but it was apparent his mood affected the phenomenon related to his irises.

"You think what they think!" he accused. "You think I'm some kind of pawn of Ghirahim's, don't you?!"

I shook my head.

"I do not think you're a pawn," I swore, "but there is reasonable evidence to believe that he wants you for some reason."

"What evidence?" he demanded. "The words of farm boy? The goddess? What evidence?"

This was not how this was supposed to go.

"Please don't be angry," I begged. "I'm only looking out for you."

His breathing increased.

"If this is what you truly think of me, I'm glad you didn't choose me! I could never be with someone who thought I was a-" He stopped himself and shook his head. "I don't need this."

Elbourne then turned and headed for the door. I hurried after him and grabbed his hand, but he quickly snatched it from my grip.

"Elbourne-"

"Don't touch me! Don't speak to me! Say nothing to me! It's over! Do you hear me? It's over! Don't ever call for me again! I mean it!"

With that, he didn't allow me to utter another word. He opened the door and slammed it with all his might, passing the guards in the process without saying a word. I stared at the closed door with my mouth agape. I stood feeling numb for a moment, but then went and sat down at the table. I ran my hands over my face, wishing I could go back and change some of what I said.

"What in the world was I thinking?" I whispered. "I've just made things worse."

However, I didn't have a moment to ponder my misgivings, because there was another sudden knock on my door. I immediately stood up, hoping it was Elbourne again.

Maybe he saw the light.

"Come in," I called with no hesitation.

However, to my disappointment the man that entered the room was not who I was expecting to see. It was King Xavier. Even so, I was surprised to see him, but I was glad he was up. I respectfully curtsied. Xavier bowed in return, but was quiet for a long moment as he eyed me conspicuously.

"That dress makes quite a statement my lady," he uttered finally

I shouldn't have been surprised.

"I suppose it does."

Xavier eyed me again before his gaze rested on my face. I wasn't sure what to inquire of him now.

"Sire… is there anything else I can help you with?"

Xavier cleared his throat before he spoke. His wandering eye wandered no longer.

"I was hoping to intercept you before Elbourne got here, but it seems he beat me to it," he disclosed.

I was surprised to hear that.

"Uh… yes that is true."

He gave me a knowing look.

"Judging from his expression as he walked by me, I assume it didn't go well," he guessed.

I paused for a moment feeling terrible that Elbourne was so hurt.

"He… he is upset with me right now," I admitted.

Xavier groaned and shook his head.

"Foolish boy," he said more to himself than to me.

There was a brief silence between us after that. I understood the king coming here looking out for the dragon prince, but when he didn't leave immediately after, I also understood he was here for a different purpose.

"Is there anything else I can assist you with my lord?"

Xavier gave me another once over before he replied.

"Actually there is. I wanted to know if I could accompany you to Queen Midna's when she requested to see you. I have some things I need to disclose to both you and her."

I was surprised at hearing this.

"You want to meet with the both of us?"

He nodded.

"If you don't mind."

There was an uneasy feeling developing in the pit of my stomach. I wasn't sure why, but something told me this was not going to go well. Even so, it had to be important if Xavier was coming himself to see me. It was with that reasoning I made the next decision.

"Of course you can come with me, but it will be up to Midna if we can share the audience or not."

Xavier nodded.

"That is a fair compromise, thank you."

I clasped my hands together.

"It is nothing."

Before Xavier left he gave me another once over.

"You look so much like Quistis," he said admirably all of a sudden. "She was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. Everyone wanted to emulate her."

I blushed involuntarily and looked to the floor.

"Sire…"

I didn't know what to say.

"Link is a lucky man," he said.

I grinned.

"That's very kind, but it is I who is lucky," I corrected.

Xavier returned my grin.

"I'm sure the hero would have a different answer, but your modesty is admirable." He then turned and headed for the door. "Will you call for me before you go?"

I nodded.

"Of course."

"Thank you."

Afterwards, he made his exit. The guards standing watch looked in again to catch a glimpse of my face before the abridging closed again. I stared at the closed door and felt my unease grow.

What is this really about Xavier? Why do you want to talk to Midna with me?

It was intriguing, and soon, I was going to find out.

~SSS~

Two hours later, thinking things through, Link

After speaking with King Xavier, I made my way downstairs to one of the main halls adjacent to the Grand Hall. At my arrival, I was approached by several Twili. They were imploring me to give them an update with everything that was going on. I couldn't blame them, and I took it upon myself to give them a little insight. I wouldn't want to be in the dark when everything around me seemed up in the air either. During one of my conversations I was approached by that same Twili I met earlier with. Twilo was his name, and he was about to give me a good reason to trust him.

He stopped short of me and bowed. I appreciated the gesture, but felt it was a bit formal for me.

"Master Link you honor us with your presence, and I am glad to see you embrace our culture."

I assumed he was talking about the clothes.

"Thank you for making the suggestion," I replied.

Afterwards, Twilo looked at the other Twili in our company and gave them an order of dismissal. The other Twili complied, and I found it interesting that he wanted to speak with me alone.

"May I have a few words with you young master?"

I nodded.

"You may."

Twilo then gestured for me to walk with him. I complied. When we were several yards away, he started speaking again.

"I have a concern that I think you might be able to help my people with."

I was surprised it was going to be something so broad.

"What do you mean?"

Twilo was quiet for a moment.

"It is a matter of our defenses," he stated plainly. "I have been warning the queen an attack on our world is imminent. I don't believe in scary unknown threats, but caution is needed."

I had no qualms.

"I completely understand." I then did a general look around. "I would start by saying her majesty needs more protection from her royal guard. She was compromised on so many levels when my party and I entered her Grand Hall."

Twilo nodded.

"I agree."

I continued my observation.

"Though your adamantine palace is made from the strongest material known to both our worlds. It is imperative that you prepare you people for a siege."

Twilo appeared cynical.

"There hasn't been a siege on Twilight Palace in over three hundred years," he reasoned. "No one can penetrate these walls."

I expanded on my point.

"Precisely, but all your enemy will have you do is starve within them. You need to start stockpiling goods and rotating them out when they hit a near expiration date every six months. You should be thinking you are three hundred years overdue for a conflict to be brought to your people."

Twilo then looked distressed.

"With the way you say that, you act as if you know more than what is generally going on."

I paused for a moment, thinking of the true gravity befalling the Twili people when it came to Ghirahim. If he was an adviser to the queen he needed to be aware of what was truly going on. He shouldn't have been in the dark. I pulled him to the side and lowered my voice.

"I need to make you aware of something."

Twilo looked surprised and I guided him over to a more distant corner so the guards standing watch wouldn't hear us.

"What is it Master Link?"

When I was certain we weren't going to be heard, I started speaking.

"I don't want to alarm you, but there is a very dangerous monster that is now free. I have reason to believe he may attempt to attack the palace."

Twilo's eyes widened.

"What monster?"

I paused for a moment.

"I'm sure you've heard of him, you're a scholar. The creature's name is Ghirahim."

Twilo covered his mouth, but tried not to appear too stunned due to the eyes still watching us from afar.

"Yes indeed I have heard of him," he whispered. "He is a servant of Demise and a betrayer of my late master, Queen Midna's father. I never trusted him when his majesty informed of his alliance with him. I read about his history with you Hylians. I had a feeling he would betray us Twili too, and he proved me right. That monster has been lurking in my mind as a threat for years. The late king had a reckoning with him. I was sworn to secrecy regarding that ordeal."

I was glad I let him in on what was truly going on now.

"You're the perfect person to inform then. So preparations for your people to last in a siege are necessary. I would get on that right now."

Twilo nodded.

"I will," he reassured. "I will go meet with some of the generals and magistrates of the people to inform them of the need for emergency supplies. We do have tunnels outside in the districts that lead back to the palace. We can have the people use those if the roads above ground are too dangerous to travel about."

I agreed with everything he was suggesting.

"Sounds like a plan."

Twilo nodded again.

"A plan I need to start getting together now. I appreciate your trust Master Link, it will not be forgotten. I must leave you now. Thank you for the information."

I forewent his thanks.

"It's nothing. It's my duty to look out for Hyrule's allies."

"Indeed," the Twili replied.

Afterwards, he bowed and left my company. I watched after him for a moment, hoping he would be able to institute what was needed sooner rather than later. I also hoped he didn't get any push back from the citizens. Ghirahim was a serious threat and he couldn't be treated with child gloves. In any such case, as Twilo left, I noticed Hylia walk in the main hall towards me. Her Sheikah disguise was still intact and I wondered how she was fairing with everything that was taking place. I decided to ask her when she stopped next to me.

"All is well?"

True to her quirky nature, she shrugged and spun on her heels like a dancer.

"As well as it can be," she replied anyway, "but those clouds are none too reassuring."

I gave her a wayward look, but then turned and looked out the window to what she was suggesting. There were billows of clouds cropping up on the horizon. I also noticed a faint flickering happening sporadically throughout the realm. Admittedly, these findings were concerning.

"Is the realm still stabilizing?" I asked.

Hylia didn't have much of an answer.

"One would hope that is what is taking place. However, I'm afraid I can't tell you if it is or not. Why is this happening?"

I took in a deep sigh, hoping this wasn't something more ominous.

"I just finished talking to Midna's chief council about the need to reinforce her defenses in this palace."

Hylia nodded.

"I know, I was listening."

That was telling.

"But you just entered the room."

She shrugged.

"I'm a goddess Link," she whispered. "I'm even in your nightmares."

I chuckled at her inflection, while she grinned underneath her bandages.

"So, what should we do now?" I redirected. "Midna needs to know about this."

Hylia nodded.

"Tell her when you see her. She'll take the information better coming from you."

I realized that, but then paused. I wanted to reassure Hylia nothing inappropriate was going to take place.

"I'm sure that's true, but she was a bit thrown for a loop when I told her I was courting Zelda," I disclosed.

Hylia was quiet for a moment.

"That is quite the truth to take, especially when you've been in love with someone for so long."

I was surprised hearing this from her. I then glanced over at her.

"What are you saying?"

Hylia returned my gaze.

"I think you know, just be careful not to have too much confidence in your own ability. Feelings run deep Link."

That was a sobering statement, but I didn't want to lose track of what was important.

"Hylia… I love Zelda. I just asked her to marry me. You have nothing to worry about. I want her. I'm serious about your ancestral daughter."

She gave me a wayward look and shrugged.

"I don't doubt your intentions for a second, but the heart is treacherous at times Link. Sometimes it just yearns. I had a similar situation a thousand years ago with a man named Groose."

I glanced at her taken aback at the appellate.

"You knew a man named Groose?"

She nodded.

"I did. He was the biggest rival of the Hero of Sky. He came off as a chump when you first met him, but in the end, he was a very decent man. He even helped Link in stopping Demise. He just happened to be in love with me too."

I stared at her intrigued. I had no idea what a 'chump' was, but I didn't bother to ask.

"So, what did you do?"

She paused for a moment.

"I married the man I loved. I married the Hero of Sky."

I grinned.

"See, you did the right thing in the end. I trust Zelda will do the same. Your blood runs through her veins."

She chuckled.

"True, and congratulations on your soon to be engagement."

I gave her an obvious look.

"Zelda hasn't said yes yet," I informed her.

Hylia looked back out the window.

"She will," she reassured, "trust me. I know that girl. I've watched her her whole life."

I couldn't lie, Hylia's reassurance gave me a confidence boost.

"That's wonderful to hear. You have no idea how hearing this from you makes me feel."

The goddess grinned.

"I wager I do." She then she gave me a quick once over. "By the way, what's with the get up?"

I stared at her puzzled.

"The what?"

Hylia groaned at my lack of understanding her eclectic speech.

"Your clothes," she said plainly, "what's with the new clothes?"

I looked down at my garments. I guess I was making a bit of a statement.

"The Twili suggested I needed to immerse myself in their culture. This was what they had to offer."

Hylia looked me over again.

"You're going to go to see the queen in that?"

I saw her point.

"Nothing is going to happen Hylia," I reassured.

She gave me an obvious look.

"You've heard of the Red Lantern District right?" she asked suddenly,

I rolled my eyes.

"What are you suggesting?"

She stared straight at my abdominal muscles.

"You look like one of those molly house escorts who likes to have a great deal of fun. Just saying."

I stared at her taken aback.

Molly house escort?

"What?"

She fanned me off.

"Don't be upset, men have a right to be sexy too."

I would never understand this divinity. What was she talking about? Men have the right to be sexy too? Even so, I decided to let the matter go. A moment later, we were intruded upon by another visitor to the adjacent hall. It was Elbourne and if there was a person I did not want to see, he was at the top of my list. Hylia and I both turned when he approached us. I was surprised he was looking for either one of us honestly. His focus seemed to be obsessively fixated on Zelda. Nevertheless, I was going to civil.

Hylia spoke to him first.

"What's going on pretty boy?"

Elbourne just stared at her for a second, looking openly frustrated.

"Why are you always calling me that?"

The goddess had no qualms.

"Because it's true."

The dragon prince shook his head. I thought it was ironic that he found being called out of his name so frustrating when he did it so readily to everyone else, or at least to people he did not like… like me. Elbourne then cut his gaze to mine, and gave me a quick once over.

"Nice outfit," he said sarcastically.

I simply nodded.

"Thanks."

The dragon prince stared into my eyes for a long time, then uttered something surprising.

"If you hurt her I'll kill you."

I didn't flinch. What was he talking about?

"Excuse me?"

"If you hurt Zelda again, I'm going to make you dragon fodder for Orthella," he threatened.

I gave him an obvious stare.

"You might want to rethink that notion Elbourne, because according to the laws of nature if I wanted to, I could control your dragons… all of them," I warned.

It was apparent my rebuttal angered him more.

"You think you're glorious shit, don't you?"

I shrugged.

"The outfit is helping," I replied sarcastically.

He rolled his eyes and he got off the subject.

"You know what I mean. She has made her decision. Don't break her heart again you lucky son of a bitch. That's all."

Afterwards, he didn't bother to wait for a response from me or Hylia. He just turned and left. Whatever happened in the last few hours must have been sobering. He looked genuinely upset.

I wonder if he spoke with Zelda.

"He did," Hylia answered my thoughts as she watched him leave the hall, "and she made it clear to him that she wants to be with you. This is the fallout from that."

I looked over at the goddess surprised.

"Oh… I see."

Hylia turned and looked back out the window.

"That wasn't an easy thing for him to do just now Link," she went on. "Zelda has been his compass for many years. He loves her in a way that maybe you, or even I, won't ever truly understand."

I doubted that.

"Or you?"

She nodded.

"I used to think he was just a selfish man with a sexual fetish only, but now I have a very different take. He's just a complicated man with a complicated family life. Relinquishing his love for Zelda to his arch nemesis was not easy for him. Have some pity."

I didn't want to come off as roguish, but pity was a word I didn't think of using when it came to the dragon prince. Dragon's ass was better. Much better. Even so, I got Hylia's point. I stared at the closed door from which he came and grunted.

He's still a bastard.

~SSS~

Midday, a meeting of three monarchs, Zelda

It was midday when there was a knock on my door.

"Come in," I called.

The door opened and in walked a Twili courtier.

"My lady, her majesty, Queen Midna has summoned you to her chambers for an audience."

I was expecting the invitation. It was time to finally have my audience. I closed the Book of Mudora - my reading material of late - and stood from the table.

"Thank you. Please lead the way."

He nodded.

"Of course," he then gestured for the door.

He led and I followed. However, before we headed to Midna's chamber, when we entered the main loft of the floor, I looked across the hall. I hadn't forgotten Xavier's request.

"Pardon me," I stopped the courtier for a moment, "but can we go across the hall and have his majesty accompany us?"

The courtier looked surprised at my entreaty.

"But my lady, the queen only called for you."

I nodded.

"I know, but his majesty asked me if I could make an appeal for him when the queen called for me. I am not going to enter the queen's chamber with him, but I was going to ask her if he could meet with us."

The courtier looked doubtful, but he nodded anyway.

"If that is your wish my lady."

We then walked across the hall together and announced ourselves at King Xavier's door. The guards standing watch were surprised to see us, but they offered no rebuttal and quickly knocked on the door. A moment later, the king showed his face and looked as though he was expecting me. He bowed when he saw me.

"Thank you for remembering."

I returned his gesture.

"It's nothing, but it will be up to Midna whether we can share the audience or not."

Xavier nodded.

"Fair enough."

With that, we set off to Midna's chamber. The courtier escorted us up a long grand staircase to the third floor. The stairwell was made of adamantine and another stone I had never seen before. It had the essence of all the colors in a prism, but it was harder than any stone I had walked on. With each step, it was like walking on a rainbow, or more appropriately, over a rainbow. It was really a vision and fitting as we ascended to Midna's residence. At the top stair, there was another commodious loft with that same multi-colored rainbow stone embedded in the ground. Green plants lined the walls, but the roadway was clear to the one door found here. This must have been Midna's chamber. It was grand as I knew it would be. We walked over to the door, but Xavier stood to the side without having to be prompted.

"I will wait for you here," he said.

I nodded.

"Thank you."

Then, the courtier announced me. He knocked first.

"Your majesty, her majesty, Queen Zelda of Hyrule, is here to take an audience with you."

There was a brief silence.

"She may enter," Midna's voice finally called back.

The courtier then opened the door and gestured for me to go inside.

"The queen awaits."

I nodded and afterwards went into the chamber. The walk was surprisingly long, as there was a hallway before I reached the main area of the room. And the room was beautiful. It appeared almost as if we were submerged in water from the nautical lights casting from the window. I learned quickly it was because of some beautiful light blue iridescent trees right outside the panes. The leaves glowed with a light blue hue, while the trunk had the familiar black xylem. The glass fractured the light coming through, appearing as waves. I understood the logistics behind it. It was very calming. Water had that kind of effect. In direct sight of the large windows, was a table in the center of the room where twilight orbs could be placed. However, there wasn't much else in the way of furniture. The room was calm, but austere. It reminded me of the faint furnishing of my room. It was very simplistic too. Even so, there was a very large divan at the north wall. It was centered with the table, and it was quite a sight. The base was made of adamantine and it resembled half a clam's shell. The board was built all the way into the ceiling. The sheets looked to be made of silk, but I wasn't sure silk was native to the Twilight Realm. It was probably a gift… a gift from Elbourne possibly. I was certain she entertained him many a night here. The dark purple and blue colors created a serenity here that was unparalleled anywhere else in the palace. And… there laying in the center of her bed was Midna. She was wearing all white. Her hair was down lingering at her waist. Her garments were much in the same fashion as her traditional black dress. She left very little to the imagination. I garnered she probably felt it wasn't necessary. That must have been very freeing for a confident woman like Midna. As soon as I entered, she gazed at me with her amber eyes. I couldn't lie, she was mesmerizing.

The twilight queen gave me a long once over.

"Well, well, well, don't you look magnificent in the clothes of a Twili woman."

I was surprised by the compliment.

"Thank you my lady. That is very kind."

She fanned off my modesty.

"Kindness has nothing to do with it. You are simply enchanting your majesty, accept it and own it as every beautiful woman should."

I actually greatly appreciated that sentiment.

"Hear, hear, well said. I guess there's no point in beating around the bush with you."

Midna shook her head.

"None whatsoever. Now, let's get started. It has come to my attention that you have some information for me. Is that right?"

I nodded.

"That is true, but can I ask a favor before we begin?"

Midna stared at me intrigued and sat up.

"A favor?" she repeated.

I nodded again.

"Yes."

She paused for a moment while giving me another long once over.

"Go on."

I then disclosed my promise to Xavier.

"His majesty, King Xavier of Dragon Roost wishes to join us in conference. Would that be possible?"

Midna paused again.

"He wants to join us?"

I nodded.

"Yes my lady,he informed me he had some information he wanted to share with me and you, and it would be best if we could do so together."

She still was hesitant.

"Did he specify anything important?"

I shook my head.

"I'm afraid not. All I know is what I've told you."

Midna paused again and took a deep breath. She contemplated for a moment.

"Are you alright with it?"

I nodded.

"I have no issue. There is something he wants to get off his chest, otherwise he wouldn't have asked me for such a request."

Midna gave me an obvious look.

"Well, if you have no issue, neither do I."

I had no qualms.

"It is good with me."

Midna then sat up and rang a gong by the side of her bed. I hadn't even noticed it until now. A moment later, her faithful courtier walked in.

"You rang my lady?" he asked.

Midna saved the small talk.

"Please send in King Xavier, and be quick about it."

The courtier bowed and left immediately. A moment later, he returned with the king. Xavier walked in and bowed when he saw Midna. She nodded her head in return.

"It's wonderful to see you again sire."

Xavier appreciated the graciousness.

"Thank you my lady."

The small talk ended there.

"It has been brought to my attention that you have some information for us?" Midna inquired.

He nodded.

"Indeed I do, but I did not want to intrude or dominate her majesties time. I will wait until she has finished with what she needs to tell you first."

Midna then glanced back at me.

"Well… you heard the man," she said casually, "don't let your time become infringed."

I grinned and happily agreed.

"I wouldn't dream of it," I then went in with my testimony. "It all started when I went to call on the great hero of both our worlds, Link. He had returned to rustic life in his village, but I came to him seeking to reunite him with you."

Midna stopped me for a moment.

"Coming to the Twilight Realm was your idea?"

I paused, knowing that wasn't altogether true.

"Yes and no. I should explain. Several years prior, the hero desired to see you again. At the time, it wasn't possible, and soon after, he no longer worked with me at the castle. I wanted him to be reunited with you because I knew that was a desire of his heart. He deserved to be with the woman he loved."

The twilight queen appeared perplexed.

"He has said these things?"

I nodded.

She narrowed her eyes slightly.

"Then I am confused."

I didn't see any confusion.

"I don't know what you mean."

Midna raised a brow.

"Come, come now, surely you must know. He told me when I saw you with the dragon prince earlier today that you belonged to him. I even saw the two of you walk off together. Is this not true?"

I didn't know why, but I was stunned to hear this from her.

"Link… Link told you I belong to him?"

She gave me another once over.

"Yes," she replied with a hint of hesitation, "why do you look so surprised?"

I shouldn't have. I just wasn't expecting him to tell her so directly.

"It's nothing. I guess some things are more obvious than not."

Midna was quiet for a moment.

"I suppose, but please go on with what you were saying before.'

She had a point. I didn't want to lose track of what we were discussing.

"Absolutely. Anyway, we left Ordon and eventually found out information on there being a second Mirror of Twilight. This was a revelation to me because I had no idea a second mirror existed."

Midna was taken aback.

"There is a second mirror?"

Her reaction was telling.

So, she really didn't know.

"Yes my lady," I said, "I learned it was actually crafted over two hundred years ago. It was so secret that even my father had no knowledge of it."

Midna's mouth became agape.

"How did you find out about this?"

"There were a series of clues that were hidden across Hyrule. Link and I deciphered those clues and put the mirror back together. It was broken into shards and displaced across the country."

The twilight queen's shock never went away. She looked past me to Xavier.

"Did you know about this?"

Xavier was quiet for a moment before he stepped up.

"Actually, I do have knowledge in this situation," he admitted. "I was aware there was a second mirror because your father told me about it. It wasn't broken until much later. It was created two hundred years ago, but it was kept hidden because the existence of it was only for those who needed to know."

I found that explanation unsatisfactory.

"Forgive my saying so, but my father was one of those people who apparently 'didn't need to know'. He wasn't aware of a second Mirror of Twilight and neither was I. So if you're suggesting that the Hyrule royal family didn't need to know you are mistaken."

"I completely agree because neither was I," Midna added.

Xavier didn't have much of a rebuttal.

"Certain secrets are regrettable. I wish Daphnes had known."

His reply wasn't too reassuring. That was all he had to say? Even so, I couldn't dwell on it now.

"In any such case, when the mirror was put back together, unfortunately an ancient evil was released."

Midna nodded.

"I know, you told me before that it was Ghirahim. I remember bits of our previous conversation before I went to sleep."

That was telling.

"Do you remember much of anything else?"

Midna looked to concentrate.

"It's hard to tell. Link informed me it was this locket that caused me to pass out." She then cut her eyes to Xavier. "A locket you gave me sire."

Xavier didn't have much of an argument for that either.

"I apologize for my treachery."

Midna was not swayed by that.

"I would rather know why you did it."

Xavier looked between the both of us.

"I can explain that further after her majesty finishes her explanation."

She didn't like the dismissal.

"Why can't you say your piece now?"

Xavier paused.

"I could, but it would make more sense when all the facts are laid bare. Please, be patient a little longer."

Midna's patience was waning, but she agreed.

"Very well, but don't think you'll leave here without telling me what I need to know," she warned.

The king nodded.

"Fair enough," he then gave the floor back to me, "Queen Zelda."

I wish I had better news. I wish I knew what to say.

"I am so sorry for releasing that menace on you and your people your majesty. I take full responsibility for what has transpired."

Midna was quiet for a moment at my utterance.

"Ghirahim…" she repeated more to herself than to me, "that monster only wants destruction. How do such creatures exist?" Her question was rhetorical. "Even so, how did he get trapped into the mirror?"

It was then Xavier interceded.

"Now may I speak? I have insight on this manner."

The twilight queen shifted her eyes.

"That was sooner than I thought," she said with a hint of sarcasm. "Why even bother to stop talking?"

The king shrugged.

"I didn't realize the subject was going to be so swift. In any such case, your father put Ghirahim in the mirror Midna. He devised a brilliant plan to save your world and ours by encasing that monster in the mystic glass."

She stared at the king. Something obviously was not making sense to the monarch.

"But how did my father even know him? Why was my father even associated with such a monster?"

Appropriate questions that I was certain Xavier knew were coming. He was going to have to disclose to her what he already told Link, Elbourne, Hylia, and myself.

"It does not please me to inform you of this, but your father knew how to stop Ghirahim because... because he was in league with Ghirahim, and… so was I," he admitted.

Midna's eyes widened.

"You and my father?"

The king pursed his lips together.

"That was the reason I gave you the necklace," he confessed. "I received orders from Ghirahim years ago to keep this amulet and not to use it until he told me too. This was before he was encased in the mirror. He spoke with your father and myself. He also gave your father an orb while giving me the necklace."

Midna rightly looked dumbstruck.

"He gave my father an orb? Is it still here in the Twilight Realm?"

Xavier gave a wayward stare.

"It might not be, but I think the hero destroyed it when he crushed it with an arrow. It was hidden in the tree tops when we had to fight a horde of shadow beasts. Once it was destroyed, its influence was gone."

I wasn't aware of any of that. It must have all taken place when they fought in the garden the first night we arrived here. Midna was still looking at the king in disbelief.

"Why would you or my father do such a thing? You had to know Ghirahim's reputation. It was written about extensively in our history, but not just ours, yours too!"

The king shook his head and glanced over at me.

"I'm not proud of myself, but it is true. I have made Queen Zelda already aware of what I'm about to tell you, but you have a right to know too. I made the pact with Ghirahim because I wanted Hyrule. I wanted the kingdom with its riches and glory. Your father's reasons were different Midna. He had no desire to have Hyrule outright, but he did say he wanted to make the Nohanseen bloodline pay for the folly of one of its kings to his family."

I knew exactly what incident Xavier was speaking of. It was time I spoke up again.

"If I may interject here. His majesty is talking about an affair you know doubt are already aware of. One of my ancestors had an affair with one of your Twili queens. The end result was of a child of that union that neither kingdom wanted. The child was treated wrongly and cast off into exile. He later grew up to be a threat. The king of the Twili kingdom at the time was executed by my ancestral father, even though he was his ally in the Great War. The King of Hyrule had him killed to cover his misdeeds. I know this treachery. I understand its depravity, and I beg for your forgiveness. My ancestral father was wrong and should have dealt with the consequences of his actions. Many Nohanseens have died already because of this history – my uncles and aunts and other kinfolk. I beg you not to let this be a strain between us any longer. I want us to move forward and be allies."

Midna was quiet as the sordid history of how her ancient family was wronged was repeated by me. I could see the frustration in her eyes she was trying to conceal. I couldn't say I blamed her, but those actions were many years ago between people who were no longer here with us. I wanted desperately to get beyond the past and move forward. However, I could not deny that that history left a singe. A mark. A scar. It was a course of events always lurking in the background that was ever present. I had to be honest and wonder if I could give it up so easily if the shoe were on the other foot. My foot. Had my family been so wronged could I simply let it go? My family were the offenders, not the offended. I could not tell the Twili people when and how they could and should forgive. It was only something I could hope for and Link was the first step.

"There is a great deal we all must atone for. You are not alone in that your majesty."

I nodded.

"I agree."

Xavier then spoke up, seeing the expression on Midna's face.

"Forgive me my lady. I was wrong. I never should have made such a deal."

Midna looked in his eyes. She sought to find out another truth.

"Was the alliance all a lie then? Was that trickery too?"

The king shook his head.

"I have never wavered on my alliance to the Twilight Realm," he reassured. "Never Midna."

I felt a little slighted in that comment. I wasn't going to let that slide.

"So, it's just to Hyrule then, right? Just to my father, right? It seems you have no issue tricking and deceiving us. And then again, I wouldn't have known any of this unless I caught the two of you. The lack of respect for my throne is wildly understated here."

Xavier turned his attention to me.

"I have no rightful rebuttal," he admitted.

Midna wasn't so yielding. She didn't appreciate how blunt my tone was.

"I appreciate your frustration as I have had my own. You understand it clearly. You've just recited some of the history of your family with mine. You have to understand if I find it at times hard to trust your word. Light dwellers have a tendency of saying one thing and meaning something else."

She was being hyperbolic in our situation.

"That has never been the case with us," I countered. "That argument is futile in the here and now. The truth of the matter is the two of you acted in secret and I want to know why. King Xavier has given me his reasons. I would like for you to give me yours. Why Dragon Roost and not Hyrule? Why hide what I thought we were working for?"

Midna didn't reply right away.

"Are you sure you're in a position to make such demands?"

I paused. I did not want this conversation to erode.

"I don't think it's a demand to understand why you decided to do business with one nation over the other," I reasoned. "Or why you decided to give them access to your world when it was the hero who saved you, a Hylian. Forgive my presumptuousness, but I don't think I'm being irrational."

The twilight queen narrowed her eyes slightly.

"The hero has nothing to do with Hylian politics."

She was wrong in that regard.

"I disagree. We built a treaty off his actions, or so I thought. If anything, you should provide an explanation because of what he has done. With all due respect, the Twilight Realm would not have you as its monarch if it were not for him. I would argue that that was a great recent political feat between our two nations."

Midna didn't see things quite that way. She had her own objections.

"If you must know, I made the choice I made because of presumptuous words like the ones you're exhibiting right now. I don't need permission from you, or anybody, to make decisions in the best interests of my people. I understand that you want an explanation, but the arrogance on display here is very off putting.'

I could see where she was sensing that. I had no rebuttal.

"I apologize if my words came off that way. I am just eager to know."

Midna glanced from Xavier to me again.

"Aren't we all," she then added. "In any such case, I will tell you as I think it is fair based off of all we discussed."

I was glad we avoided a skirmish.

"Thank you."

She didn't return my thanks.

"I made a pact with Dragon Roost because I wanted to be free of having to rely on Hyrule," she disclosed. "I come from a proud people. We do not like to grovel or ask for anything from anyone. When my Fused Shadow did not work against Ganondorf, I was amiss. I had never been defeated using the power of my people in battle. It was only when I was brought back due to the greatness of the Master Sword that I wanted to find something similar for my people. That was why I broke the mirror. That was why I sealed your kingdom off. I wanted to find my own way," she admitted. "I then began researching the ancient relics of my people's past. I figured, if Hyrule had a Master Sword, then the Twilight Realm too must have a Master Sword. That was when I learned of the Virtue Key. I had no idea what it was or how it was accessed. I just knew it was out there and existed. I wanted to find it. That was why I chose Dragon Roost as an ally. I told his majesty here of my problem and he stated he might be able to help me. I was hoping to find a metal with similar properties to the Master Sword, but nothing ever showed up."

I felt the need to provide her insight into why her search was in vain.

"I'm afraid any mining labors would have been impossible my lady. It took the combined efforts of the twilight guardians to show us the way of the Virtue Key. The guardians were never revealed to you or your people. However, I can reassure you the Goddess Hylia understands that that can no longer be the case. The guardians can no longer be kept a secret. You may need them for guidance in the future."

Midna's eyes widened.

"There are twilight guardians?"

I nodded.

"I was only able to find them because of an ancient book in my possession," I explained. "Even so, I think now that since the roadway has been opened, the guardians may be forever known to you and your people. It was how we found the Virtue Key."

The queen stared at me eagerly.

"The hero told me something similar when I awakened, but the key is nowhere to be found. Do you have it?"

I shook my head.

"I do not. I believe it disappeared. I'm not sure where it went. Only Link could wield it."

She looked disheartened when I uttered that.

"That's unfortunate," she whispered.

I gave her a quick once over.

"But you are free from the spell, why do you still want it?" I couldn't help but ask.

Midna was quiet for a moment.

"I wanted to forge a new weapon from it," she revealed. "I wanted to make a new Master Sword – a Twilight Master Sword. I figured if my people had an equivalent blade to ward off evil we wouldn't need to rely on your kingdom. We would have our own protection. However, you just reminded me of another impossibility, only the hero would be able to wield it… not a Twili."

Her honesty was surprising, but it revealed a harsh truth. It revealed that Hyrule wasn't protecting its allies – I wasn't protecting my allies. I needed to do better.

"You wouldn't feel the need to forge a new weapon if only we had communicated the way we should have. I take responsibility in my part for making you feel neglected."

Midna took in a deep sigh.

"I apologize too. I realize my actions only left you in the dark, which is not a comfortable place for any monarch to be."

I was grateful for the civility.

"Thank you."

There was a brief silence between the three of us. It had been a sobering meeting thus far. I now understood why Hylia told me what she did. Hyrule and the Twilight Realm would have been at war over a misunderstanding. The goddess was perceptive in so many ways. She uttered those words to me six months ago.

A moment later, Midna broke the silence.

"I feel I should tell you something up front so you won't be surprised if something happens later."

I wasn't sure with the way she started that this conversation was going to be conventional.

"What's that?"

The queen paused for a moment.

"I am going to tell Link I'm in love with him. I understand your position, but I hope you understand mine."

I stared at her taken aback, but I wasn't surprised. I was certain that was going to be the crux of her audience with him. I would just have to trust that the hero would be true to his word. I was done being jealous. I was done being insecure. What would be would be.

"I understand it, just prepare yourself as well."

She grunted with how I said that. If she could be that confident, why couldn't I? I was a queen too. In any such case, it looked like our meeting was about to conclude when Xavier interceded once more. He spoke with me in particular.

"My lady, I have one last thing I need to tell you."

I didn't think much of it.

"Yes?"

He paused and looked to be bracing himself. Finally, he just came out and asked the question.

"Were you familiar with a young soldier by the name of Bastion Belmonte?"

I froze and my eyes widened immediately at his utterance. I felt like a bucket of ice water was just thrown at me.

"Ba-Bastion?" I repeated in a whisper. "How do you know Bastion?"

From my answer Xavier knew I knew him. The king looked uncomfortable for a moment, but went on anyway.

"My lady, I knew everything about Bastion," he disclosed. "I'm sorry for having to tell you this way… I regret to inform you that… that he died by my hand."

The room seemed like it was spinning in that instant. I nearly collapsed and Midna had to get up and catch me so I wouldn't end up on her floor. My face wrinkled instantly and I burst into tears. I couldn't control it. Midna looked at me shocked, while Xavier looked away.

"How-how could you do such a thing?!" I demanded. "How could you?! He had a family! A wife! Children!"

The twilight queen was bewildered.

"Zelda, who is Bastion?" she asked confused. "Please don't cry my dear."

Her comforts weren't helping me.

I was stunned.

Stunned.

I couldn't keep my emotions together. I pulled myself from Midna's arms and stared at Xavier with an anger I didn't know I could feel.

"There will be a reckoning," I warned in a whisper. "I swear to you, you will answer for this."

Xavier closed his eyes and said nothing. With that, I didn't wait for either of their rebuttals. I hastily bowed to Midna so I could leave the room.

"Please excuse me," I said with a broken voice.

I turned and hurried out of her chamber. I just wanted to be alone. I couldn't believe it. Bastion was dead and Xavier was the man who killed him. How was I supposed to reconcile this? How? I tried not to let vengeance in my heart, but that was proving difficult.

There will be a reckoning Xavier. There will.

~SSS~

Dusk, the calling, Link

The day had gone by quickly, as it was already dusk. I was speaking with Hylia for the better part of it, when we were suddenly approached by a tall Twili man. This wasn't Twilo, this was another attendant. Hylia and I stopped talking when he approached.

"Master Link."

I promptly acknowledged him.

"Yes."

He gave me a quick once over.

"Her majesty, Queen Midna, states she is ready to see you."

I couldn't lie, I was slightly nervous now that the time had finally arrived. I looked over at Hylia who was already giving me the 'eye'.

"Keep your wits about you," she cautioned.

I knew full well what she meant.

"I will," I said anyway, then gave my attention back to the Twili. "Please lead the way."

With that, I was on my way. I was on my way to see the twilight queen. On my way upstairs, I noticed Elbourne leave the room he was staying in and head down stairs. I thought he was just going to meet up with Hylia in the main hall, but he bypassed that altogether and headed outside the palace. I thought that was odd.

Where is he going?

It didn't matter. I needed to concentrate on the audience about to happen.

Keep focused. Everything will be fine if you keep focused.

~SSS~

An unexpected disclosure, Zelda

An hour passed since my meeting with Midna. I was still reeling from Xavier's disclosure. It made me think about how much I missed Bastion all over again. For so long, he was the only family I had, knowing that he was murdered by Xavier only made his loss that much more devastating. I was aware I couldn't stay grieving forever, but a few more tears for my brother seemed appropriate. I missed him so. After a few moments, I tried to get my emotions together. Being so upset made me think about my discussion with Elbourne earlier and how he left feeling. I should have had more tact. I should have taken his feelings into consideration more. I was unnecessarily blunt. I could have been kinder. I decided I was going to go apologize to him. I then got up and washed my face so the puffiness might leave my eyes. There wasn't much success. I looked in the mirror hoping for a miracle. It didn't seem like I was going to get one today. However, I couldn't worry about that now, I needed to speak to my friend. After I dried my face, I went to the door. I was greeted by the guards standing watch.

"Can I assist you my lady?" one of them asked.

"Can you request an audience for me with Prince Elbourne? I would like to speak with him."

Both guards then paused.

"I'm afraid that may not be possible my lady," the other stated. "Prince Elbourne left the palace an hour ago."

I was taken aback immediately when I heard that.

"What?"

I couldn't help myself.

The guards were startled by my reply.

"Yes my lady," the first uttered, "I'm afraid he is not here."

At hearing it a second time, I didn't waste a moment. I slipped past the two guards and hurried down the stairs to the main hall.

"Your majesty!" one of them called after me. "Where are you going?"

I didn't stop and answer, and when I found my heels were a hindrance I quickly took them off. On her way up was Hylia coming in the opposite direction. She saw how hasty I was and attempted to intercept me.

"Uh… is there something I can help you with your majesty?" she tried to be cautious.

I was too alerted to worry about being cautious.

"The dragon prince has left the palace."

She then saw why I was so panicked.

"Why in the world would he leave?"

I shook my head and moved past her.

"I don't know, but I have to go."

Hylia attempted to stop me again. She took hold of my hand.

"I don't think that's wise. We can't lose sight of both of you."

I didn't care about that.

"You know what being out there all alone might mean for him. I'm going after him Sheik."

Hylia knew she was in a losing battle with me, and all the eyes weren't helping. I knew I was probably the only person who could bring him back, no matter how angry he was with me. I then continued my descent downstairs and didn't let her stop me again. I hurried out the palace to a flurry of protests from the guards, but ignored them all.

I had to find my friend.

I had to find Elbourne.

Where are you? Where are you?

~SSS~

The long awaited reunion, Midna

I wasn't sure what that was all about with Zelda, but I certainly hoped she was alright. Who was Bastion Belmonte? Why did his death trigger such a reaction from her? I wonder. In any such case, it was no longer something I could or should bother myself with. I was certain Zelda would figure that out for herself. Happening soon was my most anticipated audience. I could not wait to see Link. I could not believe how much he changed with the years. Even so, he was a special person to me and my people.

I remember meeting him all those years ago when he was a wide eyed wolf. He seemed so reckless and compulsive, but he was willing to help me. He had a giving heart even then. I appreciated that about him. It was only after getting past his outer shell that I saw the man he was inside. Admittedly, I wasn't the biggest fanatic of light dwellers before meeting Link. But, he helped me learn that goodness resides in all people in both worlds. It had been seven years… seven long years. I knew the hero was probably going to have questions regarding my motives. He was probably wondering why I kept him in the dark. I was certain he was going to ask me why I didn't give at least him access to my world. Truthfully, I did not have an answer that was going to be satisfactory. I just hoped he would understand and know that my heart never was unfaithful, even if my body was.

This was going to sound cruel, but the dragon prince meant nothing to me. Elbourne was merely a convenient diversion. He was not the hero just as I was not Queen Zelda. I was aware how in love Elbourne was with Zelda. He talked about it all the time. I opened up to him regarding my feelings for the hero soon after. Our sexual encounters were quite strange considering we were so interested in other people, but it led to honest conversation.

Even so, I should have taken a chance at the mirror seven years ago. I should have opened my heart and told Link then and there I loved him. I was tempted to, but I didn't know what those ramifications would mean for my people. Would they have accepted a light dweller as my lover? As their king? Possibly, especially considering how undisturbed my people had been about my relationship with Elbourne. Not everyone, but most of my people. It was a great deal to think about at the time. I got up from my bed and walked over to my windowed wall and stared out at the horizon in the distance.

It was dusk.

Twilight.

Perpetual mystery…

It was such a beautiful sight, even with the flickering distortions taking place sporadically in the horizon. That was odd. I wondered what was causing it. It was no matter now. It was probably a weather disturbance. I thought back again to my dilemma. There was more motivating me than the will of my people. I had a bit of selfish reasons too. I wanted to be a good queen, but I needed to think about my own individual needs. I needed an heir. I wanted my bloodline to continue. My constant philandering was an issue, and I needed to stop. I hoped I would one day. I hoped today could be that day. It all depended on how this next audience went. My contemplation was fleeting, when suddenly there was a knock at my door coupled with a voice.

"Your majesty, Master Link is here to take an audience with you," my attendant announced.

Just the person I was waiting to see. I didn't want to waste any more time.

"Send him in," I called back.

And so it begins.

The door opened and closed to my chamber, and I waited as the footsteps from the long hall sounded closer. I turned facing the direction the hero was going to enter, but I was quite surprised with how handsome he looked in what he was wearing when he made his appearance. He was wearing Twili clothes. How appropriate. He looked magnificent in all black, but especially with those abdominal muscles showing. It was nothing spectacular, but I appreciated his embrace of my culture. When our eyes met, he grinned.

"Good evening your majesty," he greeted.

Your majesty? What was with this formal nonsense? I ignored it and walked over to him. I got straight to the point without being too aggressive.

"Good evening you handsome hero," I flirted. "You look incredible in our Twili clothes."

He chuckled.

"Thank you."

I stared into his eyes.

"You were my most anticipated audience," I whispered. "I hope you understand why."

His eyes searched my face.

"I think I know," he whispered back.

I reached up and caressed his cheek.

"You have no idea how seeing you makes me feel," I whispered.

Link avoided my eyes for a moment.

"I think I do," he teased.

I smiled and made casual talk.

"What have you been up to today?"

He shrugged, but then became matter-of-fact.

"Conferring with my colleague mostly over some of the defenses of this palace. I hope you don't think I'm too untoward, but there are a great deal of deficiencies you need to consider for your people."

I looked at him surprised.

"Oh, is that so?"

He nodded.

"I was telling your chief adviser Twilo about preparations for a siege," he went on. "The people need to know a way into the palace from the outside. A food strategy needs to be implemented. A water strategy needs to be implemented. These things should not wait. I think it's imperative that you do so and do so soon. You can always switch out food items that are going to expire and give it to the needy or use it as compost for your fields."

These were all very good ideas, but I thought a siege protocol was a bit… Hylian. There would be no need for such measures with an adamantine palace.

"I appreciate your concern, but I don't think old ideas like that work here."

He gave me a knowing look.

"Fundamentals work anywhere, even in technologically advanced places like the Twilight Realm."

I had to be honest, I did not want to spend the majority of my audience with him discussing protocol maneuvers regarding my palace. I wanted to speak on matters of the heart.

"I will keep that in mind when I speak with Twilo," I reassured.

Link smirked.

"Please do."

There was a brief silence between us afterwards. That was when I took hold of Link's hand and led him over to the window. I wanted to change the subject to something more amiable, more romantic.

"Have you ever seen a twilight sunset?"

He paused, but then nodded.

"Not from a view like this, but having been in your realm for the past two weeks, I have seen some magnificent things here, the sunsets being one of them," he replied.

I was glad.

"There's a saying among my people that every sunset is the answer to a Twili wish."

Link looked at me intrigued.

"Really?"

I nodded.

"Do you have any wishes this evening?"

He paused again for a moment.

"I want you and everyone in the realm to be safe," he said nonspecifically.

I thought that was a politically correct thing to say.

"How charming," I said with a hint of sarcasm, "you're already learning to be a politician."

He grinned and turned to look me in the eyes again.

"There was nothing political with what I said."

I raised a brow.

"Right."

He chuckled at my inflection.

"It's true."

I guess I had to believe it.

"Do you want to know my wish?"

He nodded.

"Absolutely," he said.

"I wanted to end the rest of my day with you," I lowered my voice. "You see, and I got it."

His grin faded a little.

"Yes you did."

I looked back out the window.

"There is a heartbeat here unlike any place in the known dimensions Link."

I saw him staring at me from my periphery.

"That is true. I feel it in the earth when I walk among the forests."

I kept my eyes on the sun lowering amongst the trees.

"Did you miss me as much as I missed you when we were apart?" I asked all of a sudden.

Link paused, but then nodded.

"I did. I thought about you all the time."

I then turned and gazed in his eyes.

"It's the same with me. I never stopped thinking about you."

He looked back out the window. He was about to bring up a controversial subject.

"Even when you were entertaining Elbourne?" he asked sharply.

I stared at him surprised. I didn't expect him to go there so soon.

"Elbourne has nothing to do with you or I. He is simply an ally."

Link didn't let that slide.

"An ally that you were sleeping with Midna," he corrected. "Don't deny that."

There was nothing to deny.

"I don't. Why does it matter?"

Link rolled his eyes.

"Is that even a serious question?"

I saw the point, but did nothing to correct it.

"Are you jealous?"

The hero took in a deep breath and gave me a long once over.

"Actually yes," he admitted. "I am jealous because you know it should have been me who was your first, not him."

That was a statement I wasn't expecting to hear. I said nothing, but Elbourne wasn't my first lover either. Link's nobility was admirable, but he was incredibly naïve in that regard. If we had of slept together, his frustration with me would have been amplified, especially if we still ended up being apart for seven years. Even so, I wasn't going to let the proverbial cat out of the bag. It was actually nice to see a reaction like this from him.

"I'm sorry."

He shook his head.

"You don't have to pretend."

I went to correct him.

"I can't pretend, the Virtue Key is in effect."

Link then turned and stared me in the eyes again.

"Why him?" he asked suddenly. "Of all the men you could have had a relationship with, why him?"

I wasn't sure what he wanted me to say. I already told him.

"I only did it for the alliance," I then added, "but he does look exactly like you Link."

The hero closed his eyes. I wasn't sure if that was good or bad.

"I know," he said with a hint of bitterness.

I grinned.

"Don't be angry," I whispered, "no one could ever compare to you Link. You're my champion. You saved my people. How could you even feel the slightest bit of jealousy when you are the perfect man?"

My words weren't very reassuring to him.

"When you choose to give the Roostians access to your world over me. When you decided that an alliance was more important than what we had."

I had no rebuttal.

"I made those decisions because I was looking out for my people. It had nothing to do with you."

He shook his head.

"That is not an excuse. I wanted to see you more than anything in the world. Surely you knew that."

I couldn't lie.

"It did cross my mind," I admitted. "If I could do it all again I would have given you access to my world once more."

The hero wasn't too reassured.

"Midna… I was in love with you," he finally confessed.

My eyes widened slightly. I couldn't believe my ears.

"What?" I whispered.

Link looked away and didn't answer. I sensed he was conflicted now.

"You have no idea how long I have waited to hear that from you."

He pursed his lips together.

"I said was Midna. I'm in love with Zelda now."

I stared at him defiantly. Then why say this to me?

"Are you sure?"

He was up for it.

"I'm quite sure."

I went to challenge him again.

"I'm still in love with you," I admitted. "I never stopped wanting to be with you. What do you have to say to that?"

He was quiet for a moment.

"There's nothing I can do about that now."

I didn't believe him for a second. It was then I was done being coy and reached up and kissed him expeditiously. I didn't feel him kissing me back right away, but I could tell he wanted to, and eventually he did. I kissed him deeper when he was responsive to me. I felt his arms go around my waist and he held me tight. When I pulled back I stared into his eyes.

"Are you going to pretend you don't love me?" I whispered. "I know you do Link."

He was struggling, I could see it. He never answered.

"Remember what I told you earlier, איך בין נאָר סטאַרטינג. איר טאָן ניט וויסן וואָס איך פּלאַן צו טאָן ווען איך באַקומען איר אַליין מיט מיר." I whispered in Twili. "Well, it means: 'I am only getting started. You have no idea what I plan to do to you when I get you alone with me.'"

I could see the surprise in his eyes.

"Midna…"

His defenses were falling.

"Do you know what that means for you? It means I'll do whatever you want sexually."

His breathing was increasing. I was certain he wasn't expecting that.

"You've never known love until you've made love to a Twili woman. Nothing compares to me or my people, not even a Hylian queen."

Link was staring at me stunned, and I had him right where I wanted him. I took his hand in mine and led him over to my bed. I saw him try to resist, but ultimately he let me lead him where I wanted him. I laid down on the mattress and reached out my arms to him. He hesitated again, but I then took hold of his hand and yanked on it for him to fall on me. It was unexpected, but the end result was perfect. Before Link could try and get away, I wrapped my legs around his waist, then reached up and kissed him. He immediately kissed me back, but with a lot more passion this time. I knew he couldn't resist. I ran my fingers through his hair and was practically begging him to take my clothes off and make love to me.

"You can't run away from me now," I whispered. "I have you right where I want you."

Link was breathing hard when he kissed me again. I could feel his hands run up my thighs and get ever so close to the clasp of my dress, but he never unbuttoned it. He was trying to use restraint. I decided I would do that for him since he couldn't. I undid my dress and he was stunned to feel my naked breasts against his chest. I knew he wouldn't do so on his own. I stared into his eyes as I saw him struggling to do what he thought was right.

"I… I made a promise to Zelda," he whispered. "I can't do this."

I didn't want to hear this.

"Yes you can," I insisted, "you have no allegiance to anyone yet. You know deep down you love only me."

I reached up and kissed him again, but he immediately pulled away. He was staring in my eyes and suddenly he shook his head.

"That isn't true. I love Zelda. I'm going to marry her. I want to spend the rest of my life with her."

My eyes widened. I attempted to wrap my arms back around him, but he stopped me.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, "I can't do this."

I was losing control.

"Link-"

"I can't do this Midna," he interrupted again more firmly.

He took my hands and crossed them over my chest to attempt to conceal my nudity. My eyes filled with tears as he got up from the bed and turned from looking at me.'

"Link you can't leave like this!" I said with a broken voice. "I love you!"

He didn't turn around, but he spoke to me anyway.

"A part of me is always going to love you Midna… always," he admitted. "A part of me now wants to be selfish and make love to you, but I can't. I'm sorry if this hurts you, but I'm leaving. Get dressed."

Before I could say another word, Link hurried for the hall. A moment later, I heard the door close. When I was alone again, I burst into tears.

He really does love her... he really loves… Zelda.

~SSS~

The missing monarch, Link

I headed downstairs, thinking about everything that just transpired. I ran my hand over my face and sighed. I was grateful I kept my word, even if I slipped up a little. However, I had no time to contemplate my actions because as I headed downstairs I was intercepted by Hylia coming from the opposite direction. She uncharacteristically looked alarmed. I met her half way so we wouldn't be in earshot of Midna's guards.

"We have a problem," she said quietly when I approached her.

I stared at her taken aback.

"What do you mean? What problem?"

She came closer and lowered her voice.

"Zelda has left the palace."

I stared at her surprised.

"What? Why?"

Hylia shook her head.

"She went in pursuit of Elbourne. Apparently, he left the palace earlier."

I was aware of that.

"That's true, I saw him leave before I met with Midna," I revealed. "I didn't think anything of it."

Hylia looked at me with open frustration.

"Why didn't you tell me so I could stop him?"

I didn't know what she expected me to do.

"There was no way I could do that. I was already with Midna's attendant at the time."

Hylia closed her eyes.

"This is a problem, a very serious problem."

I moved past her.

"I'm going after her. I'll be damned if I let anything happen to her because she's so stubborn."

Hylia followed me for a moment.

"Please hurry, the atmosphere is not looking good."

I looked out the window when she uttered that and saw the subtle disturbances in the sky. I didn't understand it. What was going on?

"I will. I promise."

With that, I left her company and hurried down the stairs. The Twili guarding the palace entrance looked bewildered as I passed them by, as though this was a repeat offense but by a different person. It was nightfall when I got outside, and I had no way of knowing where Zelda went. I got a hint from a guard who saw my worried expression.

"If you're looking for the light queen she headed for the forests straight ahead," he divulged, "but after that I lost sight of her."

It was a start.

"Thank you," I told him.

I hurried towards the immediate forest. However, when I got to a sign that bifurcated in the road, I was stumped once again.

"Which way now?" I groaned in frustration. "Twilight Falls, or the Eventide Forest?"

I wasn't sure.

I was going to have to gamble.

I just hoped it was the right one.

I made my decision and hurried off.

Please be there Zelda, please.

~SSS~

Earlier as nightfall resided, comeuppance, Zelda

I was running as fast as I could, when I reached the main roadway outside the castle. I was stopped several times by some of the guards standing watch, but I couldn't let them keep me. I had to find Elbourne. However, I did take advantage of the opportunity to ask a couple of them if they knew which way the dragon prince had gone. They informed me he went into the main forest, but was unaware of his current location. It was a start, but I was frustrated that no one thought to stop and ask him where he was going. Maybe the guards were used to Elbourne going off as he pleased. It also could have been that the dragon prince made it clear that he did not want to be bothered. He was quite upset when I last saw him. Even so, I thanked them and left the guards company, even when they tried to stop me. This was no time for me to sit and chat. In approaching the junction of the immediate forest, there was a fork in the road with a sign. I stopped at it to read it. The right lane read: the Twilight Falls. The left lane read: the Eventide Forest. I had to think quickly. Which way?

"If I were Elbourne where would I go to be alone?"

My dilemma made me recall a time when the dragon prince took me on a hike to a secret place only he knew about in Dragon Roost. We were fourteen. It was an underground hot spring with some of the most beautiful scenery I had ever seen in Dragon Roost. He told me then waterfalls and springs were some of his favorite places to inhabit. It was then I decided to gamble on the Twilight Falls. It was more in line with where Elbourne would want to go for solace. With my decision made, I took off running east, forgetting for a moment I wasn't wearing shoes. I needed to be careful of the reeds. I nearly tripped several times. There was something strange going on too. I took note of it in the atmosphere. The sky was flickering ever so slightly. It wasn't doing this before and I was surprised because I assumed with Midna being awake the atmosphere would have stabilized. Evidential markers were waning, which only added to my dread. I quickened my step when I finally entered a clearing. It was a roadway. However, the road led to a large white sleeping willow tree where it looked like it was hiding the entrance to a lagoon. This must have been where the Twilight Falls were located. I became more confident with my guess when I heard the bubbling of the falls beyond the veil. I wasted no time going down the road and walking through the white curtain. The atmosphere here was like another world.

My word.

There was a mountain that hugged close to the large willow where a majestic rainbow-like waterfall poured into a multi-colored pool of light green, light pink, light purple, gold, and light blue water. The pool radiated a cloud of prism water that circulated throughout the canopy. The white leaves surrounding the enclosed area had a bed of dark green grass that glowed an iridescent blue at the tips. It was one of the most enchanting places I had ever seen. And, sitting near the shoreline of the pool was Elbourne. My guess was right, but he looked lost in thought. I was grateful to see he was alright, but he didn't acknowledge me when I walked up to him. He had to know he was no longer alone. Even so, I approached him. I was still breathing hard from the run.

"There you are," I said breathlessly, "I'm so glad I was able to find you."

Elbourne kept his sight focused on the pool.

"What do you want?"

His tone was telling.

I sat down next him, ignoring his inflection, understanding the bigger picture was more important. I hoped to appeal to that.

"We need to go back to the palace," I said straight away.

He wouldn't look my way.

"I'm not going back to the palace."

I billowed a deep sigh.

"Please," I reasoned, "this is not a time for pigheadedness. It is too dangerous-"

"If you've come here for more of that nonsense you were spewing earlier, you are wasting your time. Go away."

I was not going to be deterred.

"This is not nonsense. This is important."

Elbourne shook his head.

"Not to me it isn't," he insisted.

I stared at his profile. I knew I was going to have to acknowledge our earlier discussion and his feelings, but I didn't want that to be the focus.

"Look, I understand that you are angry with me. You have every right to be, but now isn't the time for us to be out alone. Ghirahim could have captured you. I-"

He made his frustration audible.

"I don't want to hear this! That's dragon shit and you know it! I came here to get away from you!"

Elbourne then got up and walked away from the pool.

"Elbourne-"

"Go away Zelda," he warned. "I am done being used by you."

I knew this was coming eventually.

"I don't want to use you. I just want to help you if I can."

He groaned.

"I don't need your help."

I was quiet for a moment, but then I walked up behind him and went to take hold of his hand. However, he immediately snatched it from my grip and turned to look at me.

"Don't touch me! Why can't you take a hint?"

I held my ground.

"It's a hint I cannot take."

He shook his head.

"And you call me incorrigible?" he mocked.

His point was made.

"Fine, but I am not leaving until you come back with me. That is non-negotiable."

Elbourne stared at me with open frustration.

"It's like you haven't heard a word I said. Get this through your stubborn skull. I have no desire to be around you right now. Go away!"

I was gauging him. I knew he was angry with me because of our argument earlier, but this was also so much more. This was about the past. This was about our relationship and how it hurt the both of us. This was about a comeuppance I knew was due for all my sins. The culmination was imminent. I saw it in his eyes. I saw it in his physique. However, so was the lack of Elbourne's safety if we weren't careful.

"And what will happen if I don't?" I challenged. "There are more important things than our pride right now Elbourne."

The dragon prince stared at me in disbelief.

"Our pride? Are you serious right now?"

I knew the hammer was coming.

"Elbourne-"

"This has nothing to do with our pride Zelda. This has everything to do with you using me over the years. Have you forgotten? Do I need to remind you?"

My throat tightened.

"I-"

Here it was.

"Perhaps you are in need of a reminder. Let's have a recap shall we. Let's look back at all the times you used me for your own selfish gain. When you had no one to call and you were alone, who did you rely on?"

The vitriol was all in his voice, but I wasn't going to run away from it.

"You," I answered quietly.

He went on.

"When you needed someone to accompany you to the ball, or any function for that matter, who was there?"

I looked to the ground.

"You."

He nodded.

"That's right, me!" he exclaimed, pointing to himself. "Me Zelda, not Link! And what do you do? You choose him over me! You choose him over me!"

The pain was laced in every word.

"Elbourne… I am grateful to you," I begged. "You were a better friend than I ever could have been, but now isn't the time for this. It truly is dangerous for us to be out here like this. Don't you see it around you? The atmosphere is not stable. We have to get back to the palace."

He scoffed, ignoring my warning.

"Now is the perfect time for this. Now is the perfect time for us to recollect Zelda because you can't lie to me now! You can't hide behind a guise of duplicity, your crown, or anything! The Virtue Key has made sure of that!"

I winced slightly because I heard the break he was trying hard to conceal in his voice.

"I never meant to hurt you."

He shook his head.

"I worshipped the ground you walked on," he went on. "I would do anything for you. You were the only good thing in my whole miserable goddamn life that I cared about! That I wanted!"

I pursed my lips together and took a step forward.

"Elbourne-"

He took note of that.

"Stay back," he warned. "I mean it, don't come near me!"

I halted my advance, but I saw his defenses falling as they naturally did when we were upset with each other.

"Alright, I won't come any closer."

Elbourne stared at me and I saw his chest just rise and fall in anger.

"Then of course you ruined the only other relationship with a girl that I cared about," he continued. "Admit it, you were jealous of Adle. You were jealous because you no longer had me at your beck and call like you were used to."

I swallowed hard.

"Elbourne…"

He didn't want deflection.

"Tell me the truth!"

I paused as I stared into his eyes.

"Okay… okay," I whispered, "I admit it. I was jealous of Adle. I didn't want her taking you away from me because I wanted you to myself. I didn't want to share you with another woman."

Elbourne just stared at me. He gave me a long once over before dropping a deku shell of a secret.

"Did you know that I have a son?" he divulged suddenly.

Nothing could prepare me for that shock. My eyes widened and I covered my mouth.

"What?" I whispered.

He nodded.

"Adle's firstborn is mine," he confessed, "but to cover my sin my mother arranged for her to marry my cousin. I didn't marry her because I didn't want to lose what we had. I didn't want to lose you, but I guess that was foolish thinking on my part."

I was still reeling from the news he just divulged to me. I never would have thought to send that letter had I known he was going to be a father. I never would have interfered the way I did. I knew he would leave Adle for me if I wanted him to. I knew that and selfishly I made him invoke that decision. I felt terrible.

"I had no idea. I am so sorry."

He looked me over again in open disgust.

"None of that matters to you does it?" he accused. "The only thing you care about is what you want. What motivates you. What matters to you. You are the most selfish-" He had to stop himself.

I didn't know what to say. I was at a loss for words. However, I knew one thing, I couldn't leave. I couldn't leave no matter how much he wanted me to. I took another step forward and he took note of that as well.

"Stay back Zelda," he warned, "I mean it."

I stared into his eyes, about to call him on his bluff.

"Or what are you going to do if I don't?" I challenged.

He shook his head.

"I can't promise you what I might do," he warned.

It was then I walked up to him completely and got right in his face. He stared right back and all I could see was the beautiful hazel that the twilight brought out in his eyes. He looked like a man who was hurt, who was struggling. Not someone who wanted to hurt another person.

"Who is this big bad dragon prince that you speak of? I have never seen him."

His eyes searched my face before he looked away. He scoffed.

"You would say these things."

I ignored that.

"More than anything in the world, I am sorry for hurting you," I promised. "I never meant to cause you pain, I swear."

Elbourne closed his eyes at my tone.

"Zelda…"

The break in his voice was apparent now.

"Yes, I was selfish," I admitted. "Yes, I used you at times, but you were always my friend. You still are. You're my best friend Elbourne."

He looked back into my eyes and shook his head when he heard me say that.

"That's the thing," he whispered, "I don't want to be just your friend."

I winced slightly. I reached up and caressed his cheek.

"Forgive me," I whispered.

His gaze got more intense.

"You have no idea how much I need you," he whispered back. "I love you so much Zelda."

He returned my tender touch and caressed my cheek, but before I could say anything in response, he leaned in and kissed me softly. I didn't resist and closed my eyes and kissed him back, hoping this wouldn't venture off into anything more. Hoping this would be enough to persuade him to come back to the palace with me. He kissed me deeper as the intensity grew. I knew his feelings were starting to command more of what he was doing than his conscious thoughts. It was then I pulled away and stared into his eyes.

"Do you feel better?" I whispered.

He shook his head.

"No," he whispered back, "not yet.'

~SKIP~

He came close and kissed me again, only deeper, harder this time. It was an apparent shift in dynamics, especially when his mouth trailed down my neck unexpectedly afterwards. He wrapped his arms around my waist and held me tight. I stiffened and felt nervous when he leaned in on me in a significant way. The difference in strength between us was substantial. This was going too far. He came back up from my nape and kissed me again, but I pulled away.

"We have to get back to the palace Elbourne," I whispered.

He ignored my utterance and kissed me once more. I wasn't sure how long I could entertain this behavior. I attempted to pull back, but this time was negated. I tried to pull back again, but was stopped a second time. My unease was starting to grow. I calmed down and got my breathing in sync with his so I could attempt to stop this before it got too out of hand. Perhaps if I kept up the ruse just a little longer he finally would come with me. It was in that moment I eventually had enough gusto to pull away and look him in the eyes. However, I was startled when I stared into them up close. They were different now. They were as dark as night and I had no idea how to account for the change. What was going on?

"Elbourne, we have to stop this," I whispered anyway. "We need to get back to the palace."

He shook his head.

"I have no intention of going back to the palace. I have what I want right here… you."

My heart began to race. I then attempted to escape his hold with no success.

"I'm afraid that isn't a wise idea. We have to go back."

He narrowed his eyes slightly.

"I'm not going back and neither are you. You're staying with me, where you belong."

My eyes widened slightly at his rebuttal, but I didn't have a chance to utter another word as he pressed his lips on mine once more. However, I had no intention of playing along with this any longer. He was crossing the line into territories that were scaring me. I didn't kiss him back. I didn't show I wanted anymore of this, but I yelped when I felt him bite my lower lip furtively. When it bled, he licked up the blood like a dhampir. He was acting like it was a normal thing to do. I couldn't lie, my fear was amplifying, especially when he picked me up and took me over to a plush patch of grass nearby. When he placed me down, I attempted to scramble away, but he grabbed hold of my ankle and pulled me back to him. I was terrified and he seemed to be enjoying my fear. He turned me over and I felt like I was face to face with a different person. A monster. I didn't know who this man was.

"Where are you going?" he whispered.

My eyes searched his face. I was genuinely frightened.

"What are you going to do?" I demanded in a trembling voice.

He narrowed his eyes at me.

"Something I should have done all the nights you teased me," he growled. "Something I should have done years ago. Something you owe me."

My breathing increased and I had no way to regulate it when he came and forced his lips on mine again. Elbourne wasn't even attempting to be pleasurable now. This was to make a statement. This was to hurt me in all the ways I hurt him. This was payback. I fought with all my power when he forced my legs apart. My lips were bleeding more and I tried wriggling my head away until it was temporarily free.

"Stop this!" I screamed. "This isn't you! What are you doing?!"

Elbourne didn't bother answering me. Instead, he forced my hands above my head and muffled my screams with his mouth pressed against mine again. In fact, he actually started pretend laughing when I was screaming. I couldn't hear my own voice after a while. I never felt more terrified in my life. Tears filled my eyes when sobs wretched my throat. Elbourne eventually pulled away when I forced myself to calm down and be quiet, but all he did was issue me a warning.

"The more you struggle, the more it's only going to hurt you," he threatened. "Just hold still and it will be over soon."

My bottom lip quivered as my tears spilled over.

"Don't do this," I begged. "This isn't you."

He came close and licked the blood still seeping from my lips. I turned my head away to stop him.

"You have no idea how wrong you are," he whispered as he hovered over me. "No idea at all.'

I shook my head.

"I've known you for fifteen years. This is not you."

His dark eyes searched my face.

"Do you know me Zelda? Or do you only know what I choose to let you see?"

I didn't want to answer that question right now, especially when he placed himself firmly on top of me and had his mouth situated at my ear.

"How well do you think you know me, huh?" he whispered in my ear.

I was trembling all over now. He kept my legs forced apart and suddenly my terror heightened when I heard and felt fabric tearing. He was ripping off my undergarments. I yelped in despair.

"No please!" I begged. "Elbourne don't!"

"Do you know me now?" he demanded. "Do you know me from all the nights I desired you, wanted you, and you rejected me?!"

I burst into tears when he tore my undergarments completely off. I tried to push on his chest, but he was so much stronger than me. In some ways, it felt otherworldly. I couldn't move him an inch. I was starting to hyperventilate in panic.

"Please don't do this!" I begged. "Please!"

He ignored me.

"I'm just going to take what I want now," he whispered in my ear. "I am done asking, begging you."

Everything began to feel surreal, especially when Elbourne lifted my skirt and slid his hands between my legs.

"Little by little," he went on.

He unbuckled the clasp at my bust, exposing my breasts.

"Bit by bit," he continued.

This wasn't the man I knew.

Not at all.

"I'm just going to take it," he whispered. "Dragon Roost. Hyrule. You. I'm going to have all of it one way or another."

My blood ran cold. I closed my eyes when I heard Elbourne undoing his pants so that his massive manhood was now visible. I opened my eyes and looked down. Elbourne wasn't just big, he was huge. He was big enough to cause some serious damage if he wanted to hurt me more than he was going to. I stared at it frightened, but then I looked away. I wasn't going to give him the pleasure of looking me in the eyes while he raped me. If he was going to do it, he was going to do it without me appearing terrified any longer. I braced myself for what was probably going to be a painful forceful entry. However, as the waiting increased, the pain never came. There was no forceful entry. I held my breath as it prolonged, but I finally opened my eyes to surprisingly find Elbourne hesitating. He was staring down at me with the most shocked look on his face. I noticed right away that his eyes weren't black anymore. They were back to hazel. They were back to normal.

~DONE~

I wasn't sure if I should speak or not, but I did.

"What's the matter?" I whispered finally.

He looked me over again.

"What am I doing?" he whispered more to himself than he did to me.

I didn't know how to answer him, so I didn't.

"I can't do this to you. Not you."

My eyes widened stunned. He immediately got up from hovering over me and I crawled back as a natural reaction. He looked ashamed.

"Get up," he whispered, "get out of here."

At his beckoning, I buckled the clasp to my dress and pulled down my skirt. He in turn fastened his pants to keep him from exposing himself. The full reality of what he almost did seemed to be registering to him in some form of shock.

"I am not a monster," he said, talking more to himself again. "I will not take you this way. I will not rape you."

I was trembling when I got to my feet. He seemed more taken aback than I was. He looked dispossessed and his mind was coming to terms with his actions in real time. I took several steps back as he walked farther away from me. The lagoon remained insulated, but I noticed the flickering beyond the white veil of the trees. Something in that was ominous to me.

"You must come with me," I said finally.

Elbourne shook his head and ran a hand frustratingly through his hair.

"Get out of here," he said without looking at me.

I could tell from his tone he felt guilty, but when I saw the flickering in the atmosphere again, I then took it upon myself to go back over to Elbourne to get him to go back to the palace with me. When he heard me coming up behind him, he turned around to face me.

"Get out of here," he told me again.

I shook my head and tried to take hold of his hand.

"I can't leave you alone, we have to leave here together. Don't you see what's happening around us?"

Elbourne stared at me like I had two heads.

"You still want me to go with you after what I almost did to you?" he asked incredulously. "What the hell is wrong with you?!"

He snatched his hand from my grip and took several steps back. I understood his dismay, but I had to move beyond that.

"I can't leave you alone Elbourne ," I insisted. "I can't."

He shook his head.

"I'm not going with you. Just go."

"Elbourne-"

"Go the hell away Zelda! Go away!"

I stood my ground.

"I can't leave you alone Elbourne! I won't! No matter how much you try and push me away I won't leave you!"

Elbourne then stared at me at a loss and let his head fall back. Suddenly, his eyes filled with tears when he looked at me again. Seeing him so hurt made a visceral reaction come from me too. My eyes welled up. He ran a hand through his hair again and basically pleaded with me.

"Please Zelda," he whispered in a broken voice, "please go. I can't be around you right now. I could have hurt you so badly and I never would have been able to forgive myself."

I came up to him just then, whether he wanted me to or not.

"But you didn't," I whispered back, "you didn't because that isn't who you are. It's as you said, you aren't a monster."

Afterwards, I hugged him tight. He wasn't expecting it, but he in turn leaned down and buried his head in my shoulder. He wept in frustration. I shed a few tears with him and held him tighter. I knew his heart was broken if he was willing to cry in front of me like this. He only cried around me two other times. The first time was when I told him I couldn't play with his heart anymore, though I continued to do so. And the second time was when he found out about his mother and the chief of my guard. He hugged me tighter when he finally got his emotions in check. I wanted to take him away from this place. I wanted to get him to safety.

"I love you so much," he whispered in my ear.

My heart raced.

"I know," I whispered, "I love you too."

At this point, he knew what I meant, but he pulled back and looked into my eyes anyway.

"You can say that to me? You can utter those words after everything I've done?"

I stared back.

"I know you. I know Elbourne of Dragon Roost. Who you are right now is the man that has always been there for me. You're my dearest friend."

I watched as his throat tightened and before I could utter another word he came close and kissed me again. However, this time I wasn't afraid. I let him, and I kissed him back. This wasn't going to be like a moment ago. I knew I would probably never see that side of him again. Whatever that was, wasn't Elbourne, and he had successfully overcame it. He kissed me deeper and I finally had to pull away and stop this.

"We have to get back to the palace," I whispered.

He nodded.

"I know, thank you for not giving up on me."

I grinned.

"I never could."

Afterwards, I took his hand in mine to lead him to the canopy entrance. However, I stopped dead in my tracks and my heart raced when there, standing at the entrance, was Link. I quickly let Elbourne's hand go and stared at the hero stunned.

"Link," I whispered shocked.

There was a brief silence after that. The tension was apparent.

"This isn't what this looks like," I swore after a few moments.

Link's blue eyes looked like they were going to brand a hole through me.

"Then what the hell is it?"

At Link's tone, Elbourne got in front of me to shield me, not the he needed to.

"She's telling you the truth, nothing happened."

Link cut his eyes to him.

"You're a goddamn liar," he growled. "I saw you when I walked through. I saw how you were kissing her."

Elbourne narrowed his eyes.

"So what," he retorted, "she's in love with you anyway. She only came out here to get me to go back to the palace."

Link shook his head.

"That's a likely story."

I took a step forward.

"It's true," I insisted, "please, let's not quarrel."

My rebuttal seemed to anger Link more.

"Let's not quarrel? Are you serious?"

Elbourne in turn took in a deep frustrating sigh and looked away, then unwisely said, "This is all I need right now."

I closed my eyes at his utterance because I knew that was going to be the triggering agent to set Link off.

Why did you say that Elbourne? Why?

~SSS~

Red fury, black abyss, Link

I couldn't lie, all I could see was red for a good three or four seconds. I was trying to stay composed, but that was impossible. I walked over to where Zelda and Elbourne were standing. Zelda was disheveled, with her hair slightly unkempt. I noticed some bruising on her lower lip. But I also noticed from the corner of my eye some torn cloth lying in the grass. What was that? I looked over Zelda's dress again and saw nothing out of place. Maybe it came from Elbourne's shirt, but his garments were intact though slightly unkempt. So… where the hell did that come from? I didn't want to think on it more because it only was going to make me more upset. There was no denying what I caught them doing. They were kissing, but how far had this gone? What the hell was really going on here? I was trying to keep my cool, but it was fleeting.

Elbourne then sighed in irritation.

"This is all I need right now," he said to himself sarcastically.

My eyes narrowed slightly when I heard that. I didn't understand why right away, but hearing him say that really pissed me off. I mean really pissed me off. Was he serious right now? Did he think he had a right to be upset when I just caught him with my woman? And what was Zelda thinking believing this was okay? This was not okay and I wanted a goddamn explanation? With all the dragon shit Elbourne espoused, especially today, he had the nerve to say this?

My breathing increased.

This is all you need? My frustration was building. I'll give you what you need!

I cut my gaze to Zelda, who probably saw the fury coming even before I did. Her eyes were wide and she was subtly shaking her head. No… no, she didn't get to make that decision. Not after when I caught them. Before I uttered another word, I balled my fist and punched Elbourne right in the face. I was done. I was fucking done. I was tired of him meddling in my relationship. I was tired of his disrespect. I was tired of his taunts. I was just tired of him. He had this coming and it was long overdue. When it landed, Zelda looked at me shocked.

"Link!" she cried out. "What are you doing?"

I ignored her and watched as Elbourne regained his balance. He was startled momentarily, but quickly he wiped the blood from his lip and lunged at me. Elbourne landed hard at my midsection and tackled me to the ground. Once he had me subdued he punched me in the face and side. My lip burst open.

"Stop this both of you please!" Zelda screamed in the background. "This isn't helping us!"

Neither one of us listened to her. I went to guard Elbourne's last strike and elbowed him in the chin. The blow disoriented him enough for me to push him off me. With us separated, Zelda immediately got between us to try and put an end to this.

"Link please, stop this!" she begged. "This was a misunderstanding I swear!"

I wiped my mouth again.

"This is more than a misunderstanding Zelda! You know that as well as I do!"

I was done talking, and when I saw Elbourne get up again I pushed Zelda out of the way. I didn't mean to, but Zelda landed hard on the ground. She let out an audible groan. Elbourne saw that and narrowed his eyes at me.

"Okay, now you've crossed the damn line."

Elbourne lunged at me again and we landed near the pool's edge. Elbourne managed to get his hands around my neck. His vice grip was strong. I was struggling to breathe for a moment, when I raised my knee and kicked Elbourne in the back. That didn't deter him. I then wrapped my legs around his torso and forced him back, so I could free myself from his grip. When I got the upper hand I punched him off me. Elbourne stumbled and fell to the ground landing on his ass, but soon it wouldn't matter. The atmosphere around us began to flicker and shift, like we were in a portal of some kind. Our fight halted immediately when we looked around and saw the space around us channel in and out.

What the hell is going on?

Zelda shook off the dizziness from the fall and looked around as well. Her eyes widened when she took note of the space around her.

"Something is not right," she said aloud. "It's been getting progressively worse since we've been out here. We have to get back to the palace!"

I think we were all aware of that fact now. However, something ominous began to happen. Underneath the dragon prince the ground suddenly turned black and a circular shape appeared.

"What the-?" I stopped myself.

Zelda too saw it, and immediately went to Elbourne's aide.

"Elbourne watch out!" she shouted.

Then she got up without waiting for a reply and pushed him out of the dark circle. Elbourne was shocked with her coming to his aide so readily. However, in the process Zelda was now caught in the darkness. I stared in disbelief.

"Zelda! Look out! It's underneath you!"

Zelda was startled at my outcry, until she saw the darkness engulf around her.

"Link!" she tried to stand up but couldn't. "Link! Elbourne! Help me!"

Suddenly, a white arm appeared from the darkness and roped around her waist.

I felt my panic surge.

That can't be!

Zelda screamed.

"No!" she exclaimed.

I hurried and dove for the black hole. Elbourne followed soon after and we both grabbed a hand. Zelda looked terrified.

"Don't let him take me!" she begged. "Please!"

"I won't!" I promised. "I won't!"

"I've got you," Elbourne reassured. "I will not let you die!"

Out of nowhere, the face I was dreading the most finally appeared. It was Ghirahim.

"Well, well, well," the demon said with a sinister smile, his hand was gripped over Zelda's mouth now, "look what we have here. Not exactly what I was looking for, but a very nice consolation prize."

The monster's mouth was at her ear and a feral rage surged inside me.

Don't let her go!

"Unhand her you bastard!" I yelled. "I swear if you harm her I'm going to kill you! Do you hear me? I will be the one to end your life!"

Ghirahim laughed.

"I think not." He then pulled Zelda around the waist further into the darkness. Her grip loosened from both me and Elbourne. Her eyes widened in fear as her screams were muffled from Ghirahim's grip. She was beyond my reach now.

"If you touch her-" Elbourne threatened him.

Ghirahim grinned.

"I'm going to touch her a great deal. I'm going to do what you couldn't."

The dragon prince started breathing hard.

"You disgusting-"

Ghirahim's laugh cut him off.

"See you on the other side boys. The queen and I are going to have fun. She's going to scream like she's never screamed before."

We were already seeing evidence of that as Zelda's muffled screams echoed in the background.

"Zelda!" I screamed. "Zelda!"

Finally, they both disappeared into the swell of blackness. I fell onto my knees in pure disbelief. I couldn't believe I let this happen to her.

Zelda was gone.

And now… now she was in the clutches of a madman.

---

Thank you for reading. I apologize to anyone the one 'scene' might have triggered.