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.

34. Chapter 34

Inspiration: The Master Sword and the Seven Spiritual Virtues: castitas (chasity), temperantia (temperance), caritas (charity), industria (diligence), patientia (patience), humanitas (kindness), and humilitas (humility) & Rosemary's Baby. The "Tree of Life" album by Audiomachine for the 2020 reedit.

Original Shout Outs: Camilovesbluebloods, LinkTwilight, Iris the Chobit, Wolfemutt, Espeonage Espeon, MiniDoom, Elzana, TheNextEpisode, SkywardKkrox, and Pro Assasin.

Author's Note: Sorry for the wait everyone. I am reworking all the chapters in the 30s.

Word Count 17,374

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Chapter 34

The Kingdom of Dragon Roost, Constance

There was a disturbance in Dragon Roost. Everyone knew it. Everyone could sense it. I did my best to stave off the inquiries, but weeks of absence from my husband and my son were making the people anxious. "Where is King Xavier? Where is Prince Elbourne?" they were asking. Ever since the dragon prince spoke to me months ago regarding that shard, I knew something was amiss. From then on I had an uneasy feeling. I had an uneasy feeling because I knew exactly what was encased in that mirror. I had known for quite some time. Endless dreams of torment, torture, and nightmares. That monster. That demon that haunted my thoughts for twenty-eight years. That creature that made my husband disgusted with me. That thing that made my son's very existence call into question the meaning of life. Elbourne would always be mine. I loved him despite what he truly was, but I knew the truth was nigh. I knew Ghirahim wanted him now too. He told me so the night he was done violating me.

"One day, your seed will belong to me," that monster whispered. "And if you try to kill it, it will kill you. I've made sure of that. There will be no accidental miscarriages Constance. When I'm ready, I will come back for him."

I was frightened at his words. I lived with them for twenty eight years. I was afraid of what was growing in my womb. I was afraid of what I might see. But, when Elbourne was born, I was surprised to find this magnificently beautiful child. I was stunned. He looked perfect in every way. I expected him to be a monster like his father… his real father. Surprisingly, he had the Roostian features too. He had the white blonde hair and the hazel eyes. I had never seen a more beautiful creature in my life. I was torn, because I was ready to hate him. I was ready to kill him despite the consequences of my own death. But, seeing him so innocent and perfect, I couldn't bring myself to hate him. In fact, I felt drawn to him because he was an outcast like me. Xavier hated Elbourne as much as he grew to hate me. I believed Xavier's hatred stemmed more from frustration with himself than with Elbourne. The dragon king knew what he got himself into. He knew he made a deal with the devil. He couldn't blame Elbourne for that, but he attempted to anyway. I was exasperated with Xavier because he couldn't see past his own selfishness.

Realizing the recent murmurs were starting to spread throughout the kingdom, the fear of Ghirahim's return was beginning to reverberate. The people did not know, but I knew. I was aware. I had a feeling that monster's retaliation was near. Why else would Xavier leave for so long a time? Why else would he do this to himself? Why would he choose to be in league with such a vial creature if the piper did not need to be paid? He must have known that the sands of time were passing ever so persistently. Dragon Roost had prospered, but what would that matter if it meant Xavier and Elbourne's lives were lost? What good was being queen if my son and husband were forfeit to a terrible fate? That was probably a naïve supposition, but I wasn't a power hungry woman. In fact, I wasn't the woman many people thought of at all.

When I was a young girl, my mother taught me how to be a refined lady. More than anything, I wanted to excel in literature, art, and music. Music was my greatest forte due to my love of the opera. It was what actually propelled me to court life. My best friend was Quistis Leonhart, the princess of Balaam at the time. She heard me singing when I was eight. I was doing an impromptu concert for her and her mother in the royal gardens. She was so mesmerized with my voice, that she implored her mother to have me join them for tea. The queen allowed me to do so, and that was the beginning of our friendship. Quistis asked me how long I had been singing, what my favorite opera was, and if I had any plans to become a professional bard. I told her I wasn't sure, but I planned to study music further when I entered my scholarship study. It was then Quistis asked her mother if I could be a part of her personal court. Her mother agreed, but only under the condition I started my scholarship sooner rather than later. I was honored, because it was essentially a recommendation from the queen herself.

Court life was everything I thought it would be. Quistis had me at her side every step of the way. I never felt like just a lady in the court. I felt like Quistis's friend. And, I remember her having an eye for a certain prince when she met him immediately. I think from the moment Quistis saw Daphnes of Hyrule, she fell head over heels in love with him. She was only fourteen. At the time, I was quite certain it was an infatuation, but she talked about him constantly. There wasn't a conversation where Daphnes was not at least mentioned once. Admittedly, Daphnes was the talk of all the ladies in the court, but I knew there was no chance the shining Prince of Hyrule would ever have anything less than a princess. Their destinies were set. Quistis had no need to worry in my mind. I do, however, remember when I met Xavier. To me, he was every bit as charming and accomplished as Daphnes. Personally, I thought he was the most handsome creature I had ever seen. I never knew hair could be so blonde, or eyes could look so golden. He was beautiful, but I sensed he too only had eyes for Quistis. I was not going to reckon with a prince. However, I was aware of how much Quistis was enchanted with Daphnes. I wished Xavier could have seen it so his heart wouldn't have gotten broken when she told him the inevitable news.

I saw the disappointment in Xavier's eyes when Quistis rejected him. I felt for him. I really did. I could sense he truly cared for her. I said nothing, as I was only a spectator. Even so, imagine my surprise when only a few months later, he came back to Balaam and asked my father if he could court… me. I was stunned. I had no idea there was even an inkling between us. I knew Xavier was still dealing with his feelings for Quistis. Why was he desiring to court me when his love was so clear? In any such case, I didn't ask, though I should have. I foolishly agreed to allow him to court me. How was I going to say no to a prince? Also, admittedly, I couldn't see beyond my own infatuation at the time either. My own ambitions even. I couldn't pretend that I wasn't seduced by the idea of being the Queen of Dragon Roost. What a life that could lead to. I couldn't pretend that I didn't want to be a part of the legendary Roostian bloodline. But alas, I should have been more prudent. I should have looked beyond my rose colored spectacles. I was aware I was the second choice. I was aware I was the other woman. I knew that Quistis was the love of Xavier's life, but I married him anyway. My father and mother were beyond proud. Think of all the boasting they could do now. However, my life was never the fairytale I hoped it would be.

I had to admit, our wedding night was special. Xavier was everything I dreamed he would be. I never experienced anything quite like that in my life. That was when I fell deeply in love with him. I was enraptured. But, I could also tell Xavier realized he made a mistake. He realized then that I wasn't truly what he wanted. Nothing would ever properly replace Quistis. I actually felt for him for being married to a woman he did not love. I knew it did not make sense since it was me, but I pitied him. However, the misgivings did not end there. Xavier's melancholy wasn't exclusive to not having Quistis. I realized this when we went on our honeymoon. If it could be called such.

We set voyage several days later to a remote island off the Termian Sea. It was an uncharted region where only Xavier's crew knew where and how to reach it. However, the dragon king took me to this place alone. He and I were the only ones in that boat that day. I couldn't lie, I had an uneasy feeling the entire way there. I had never seen or heard of this place, but I trusted my husband. I trusted him. When we disembarked, it was the only time I turned to ask Xavier what we were doing there. I should have known from the look in his eyes that something was amiss. I should have known something was not right. However, he attempted to allay my fears with reassurances. "I want you all to myself, you'll like it here," he said. I did feel a bit of relief with those words, because suddenly I wanted him too. However, that trust was fleeting when we descended into a cave one hundred feet below the surface. There I stopped cold in my tracks and realized something was wrong. Seriously wrong.

My heart skipped a beat when I saw that a monster was waiting down there for us… for me. I was stunned when I saw this creature, this… Ghirahim. I had no idea what he was. I just saw that he was tall, with dark eyes and white skin. Everything on him was white. It was in that moment I turned to my husband frightened. But, that was when the true terror came to me. Xavier just stared at me with these cold, calculating eyes. He told me, "I had to Constance, for Dragon Roost, for you." I looked at him astonished. He had to what? I took a step away from him, and realized then I was truly alone in that horrifying place. In that horrifying situation. I attempted to escape, but Xavier blocked my path. I couldn't begin to describe the betrayal I felt in that moment. "Let me through!" I begged. "I will not stay here!" "You will do it, or you will die Constance," Xavier whispered. I had no words. There was nowhere left for me to go. And before I could make another move, Ghirahim had gotten up from the stone awning he was sitting on and took hold of me. He snatched me from Xavier and stared into my eyes for a long time. "You're exquisitely beautiful," he whispered. "Just like Xavier promised." I turned to look at my husband once more before he cut his gaze from mine. Afterwards, Ghirahim took me over to that same stone awning and raped me repeatedly that night in front of Xavier. My screams were only heard by the two of them.

The terror of that night still ravaged my body. I still held onto that trauma. I still felt the pain of those isolating moments. That dark room was my torture chamber. When Xavier and I left, nothing was ever the same. I cried for days after that incident, but I cried even more when I found out I was pregnant. My despair mounted. None of the royal physicians understood my dismay. None of the people knew where my forlornness was coming from. Even Quistis thought I should have been ecstatic because she too was pregnant. If only life were that easy. If only they knew the truth. In the beginning, Xavier apologized to me constantly. But, in time, he grew callous towards me. Even growing to hate me. He knew what was growing in my womb. He knew what he witnessed that night. The time of my son's birth was being celebrated around the kingdom, but there was an apparent black cloud over Xavier and me. I was terrified of what was going to come out. I was terrified of what this child was going to look like. What if he was a monster like his father? What if he was some aberration? What if he was cursed? However, when Elbourne was born, some of my fears were nullified.

I was in labor for twenty-three hours. I was shocked by how perfect of a baby he was. As I stated before, I was stunned he had the Roostian features. But, how could he have those features with what happened to me that night? Xavier too was dumbfounded. It was then I began to have hope. It was then I began to theorize that perhaps Elbourne was truly Xavier's son. The dragon king and I were man and wife prior to my violation by Ghirahim. Perhaps, Xavier impregnated me before Ghirahim got a chance to. Perhaps, there was a chance that Elbourne was truly his. At one time, I truly believed Ghirahim used that act of sexual violence to control and manipulate my husband. I wanted so badly for Elbourne to be Xavier's. However, my theory became less and less prudent the more Elbourne grew up. My son was beautiful to be sure, more beautiful than any child had any right being. But, I saw the monster growing inside him. I saw how cruel he could be when he didn't get what he wanted. That wasn't simply the misgivings of a spoiled little boy. No. There was something much deeper troubling my son. I saw him struggling with it as a child. I had to correct him and over correct him at times, but I did see him try. I cried incessantly some nights, because I had no idea what to do with him. What was he truly going to be for the world? Would Ghirahim really come back for him?

It seemed I had my answers in the present with my son and my husband's disappearance. This had to be the reckoning Ghirahim spoke of. This had to be that promise he whispered to me that night. That monster was coming back. I was told by Xavier that he was encased in a mirror somehow. That he was hidden away by the King of Twilight somehow. I was told that mirror was hidden from all. I was told that mirror was broken into shards. I was told access to those shards was impossible to find. It seemed the impossible had become possible. I remember what my husband came home and informed me of that night: "He will never hurt you again Constance. He is gone from our lives." I wanted so badly to believe that. I wanted so badly for that monster to be out of my thoughts. Out of my life. However, I knew that wasn't the case. Reality was dictating something different. Reality wasn't a bunch of useless words. Reality had the kingdom wondering, waiting, watching. If news came back to my people that the king and the prince were dead, there was going to be war. But the problem was, my people would assume the war would be with Hyrule. They had no idea that Hyrule was nothing more than a distraction. The masses were getting informed by gossip and that was dangerous. Gossip fueled propaganda. Propaganda was the fuel of ignorance. This had to be rectified. Something had to be done. It was why I was currently in counsel with my husband's brother Prince Rowen.

Rowen was a true Prince of Dragon Roost. Rowen was the spitting image of his brother Xavier. He was two years younger than the king, but in terms of personalities, they were completely different. Rowen's strength was his loyalty, where Xavier's forte was his ambition. Rowen didn't necessarily have a gumption for politics, but he could hold his own when it came to matters of state. To that end, he would have been a competent king if he had been given the chance. Rowen had other wonderful traits too: kindness, courage, bravery, reasonableness. Rowen was an accomplished man. In many ways, the prince looked out for my son the way a father would his own. He always watched Elbourne from the shadows, hoping to help him if he needed him. Elbourne wanted that attention from Xavier but was grateful to get it from his uncle. Rowen had three sons of his own, two of them being a couple of the best dragon riders in Hyrule. However, when his dear wife, Gwendolyn died after giving birth to his third son, Rowen spent his life rearing his boys. They could not have had a more devoted father. They were extraordinary men, and were a great asset to Xavier and his court. And... Xavier knew that.

I had gotten to know Rowen more closely over the years. There wasn't a man in Dragon Roost with greater honor. He often got on his brother for his infidelity, telling him he knew he wasn't happy doing so. But, Xavier rarely, if ever, listened to him. Rowen was disappointed in his brother, but he respected him for the extraordinary job of making Dragon Roost a super power, second only to Hyrule. Rowen never remarried, which I thought was a shame. He should have fathered more children. We needed more honorable men in Dragon Roost. I was certain there were a great many ladies who would have loved to have been the wife of Prince Rowen. Even to this day. He would make a wonderful husband. However, he told me in confidence that he thought about getting married again, but the woman he wanted was unfortunately already taken. He stated he would rather remain a bachelor and hold onto the happy memories he had with Gwendolyn and his new secret love than marry just to marry. He said of his secret love, that he'd rather be free to be next to her, than to never be next to her at all. I was quite astonished at his candid words. And… the look in his eyes was a betrayer to his feelings. But, he never told me outright who the woman was. I heard rumors… but I was not going to entertain such. Elbourne even told me once in confidence that he thought Rowen was a better fit for me than Xavier. My son said he could tell Rowen had feelings for me. He could sense it. That was quite telling coming from Elbourne. Had things been different, perhaps my life would have taken another turn. Even so, I had my own past indiscretions to contend with. I did not need more.

To that end, Rowen was getting more and more concerned about his brother's prolonged absence.

"When was the last time you heard from Xavier?"

Unfortunately, I didn't have an answer that would be satisfying.

"It's been weeks. I have no idea where he went off to."

He shook his head.

"Why would he take off without telling you?"

His inquiry sounded more like a demand.

"Why does Xavier do any of the things he does? He comes and goes as his station in life dictates. There are many secrets he carries that I have no idea are in his head. He is a repository."

Rowen was not appreciative of my reply.

"Constance this is not helping. We have to do something before we have a full blown crisis on our hands."

I moaned thoughtfully.

"With all due respect Rowen, the crisis is already here. We have to stave it off before the public becomes restless."

Rowen gave me a quick once over.

"They already are restless," he stated. "Some of the people are thinking of taking matters into their own hands to find out what is going on with the king and his highness."

That wasn't too reassuring.

"Now, now we can't have that."

Rowen tapped his fingers on the table.

"Do you suppose Queen Zelda has any idea where the king and his highness are? It was rumored that she was with Elbourne some months back before the prince went missing again."

I was quiet for a moment.

"I heard those rumors too, and I can tell you that the reports themselves weren't true. But, I did speak with my son before he left. He said he had some business in Hyrule, but I reckon his business was with the queen. He has eyes only for her it seems."

Rowen caught the inflection in my voice.

"Elbourne does have a one track mind when it comes to her majesty," he observed. "But, he is a bright young man, if at times his ingenuity leads to recklessness. I was speaking to him regarding a brilliant idea he had for rerouting the waste from the dragon pits. That has been the bane of our blacksmiths for years. He suggested creating a tunnel from dragon fire that led to the sea. It would take years to complete, but it was an idea that would allow the smoke and ash to decompress, while also providing the ocean a natural resource of minerals for irrigation. I have no idea why Xavier disagreed with his idea."

I gave him an obvious look.

"Xavier was concerned with the long term effects of mineralization of the ocean. I too thought it was a brilliant idea."

Rowen did not see the issue.

"The ocean is full of minerals already. What's wrong with a few more?"

He had no argument from me.

"Ecology changes with industry," I said simply. "In any such case, what is important now is that we need to find my husband and my son. More aptly, I need to find my husband and my son. The regents are all ready to storm Hyrule's gates."

Rowen gave me a wayward look.

"I can't say I blame their sentiment. The royal family is practically gone, and the last thing the people heard was that Queen Zelda was with their prince."

"That is true, but perhaps we need to turn the tables. Perhaps sitting here idly is not the answer."

Rowen gave me another once over.

"What do you suggest?"

I then stood up.

"I must ride to Hyrule and speak with the queen myself. There are some things I need to discuss with her."

Rowen looked at me surprised.

"Is she even in Hyrule?"

That I wasn't certain of.

"I don't know, but I have to do something."

He stared at me.

"Do you think it more appropriate that I go in your stead my lady? Dragon Roost needs a leader."

I saw no issue.

"And it will have one. I'm leaving that to you until I, or my husband returns. The royal family is my responsibility."

Rowen raised a brow.

"I happen to be a part of that family too. I don't see how it would be inappropriate for me to go instead of you."

I walked around from the table and went to stand in front of him. The concern was all over his face.

"I appreciate you more than you will ever know Rowen, but let me take care of this," I whispered. "I need you here."

Rowen stared into my eyes. He was reluctant with my request.

"I still think it should be me going instead of you."

I grinned.

"Of course you do, as any respectable man would."

He sighed.

"You cannot be dissuaded, can you?"

I shook my head.

"No."

He looked away for a moment.

"Then I will not fight you. Whatever you need me to do, I will do."

I appreciated his valor. I reached up and caressed his cheek.

"Thank you for your loyalty."

Rowen's eyes searched my face. I sensed he was compelled to say something else, but didn't.

"I… I will always be loyal to Dragon Roost my lady."

I wished then he could have been a little more honest.

"I know."

With that, I turned to take my leave. However, before I could get through the door, Rowen stopped me once more.

"How do you intend to ride to Hyrule?" he asked all of a sudden. "Do you plan on riding your dragon?"

I didn't answer right away. I understood his concern.

"I intend to find out what happen to his majesty by any means necessary."

He gave me a knowing stare. He saw I was being evasive.

"You do realize that riding your dragon into Hyrule air space is considered an act of war."

I stared back.

I did not flinch.

"So is spreading rumors of my son being with the queen and finding out that he is now missing. If Hyrule wants a war, I will not be the one to bring it to them, but I will find out what happened to his majesty and his highness."

Rowen saw the determination in my eyes.

"My convictions are the same as yours. But please… consider your steps carefully. I don't want anything to happen to you in the process."

His inflection was clear. I tried to reassure him with a smile.

"Don't worry about me. Lightning will keep me safe."

Rowen's concern never subsided, but he said nothing to stop me this time.

"May Lightning be swift."

I nodded.

"May she indeed. I will see you soon."

~SSS~

Several hours later, Hyrule Castle, Shad

It took me a moment to really understand what was going on right now. And, as I looked heavenward, I knew whatever Queen Zelda had gotten herself into, just got a bit more complicated. The entire city was mesmerized and astonished to see the white dragon of Queen Constance of Dragon Roost flying overhead. I was staring from one of the spires myself, but then hurried to the main gate after seeing enough of the spectacle. This was grave. This was very grave. This could quickly spiral out of control if not handled properly. My feet were swift, and in the process of my walking, I was intercepted by General Zelvious. The concern was apparent all over his face too.

"Do you know what to make of this?" he asked. "Did her majesty inform you she was coming?"

I shook my head and kept moving. Queen Constance told me nothing. However, I knew if I didn't get some information quickly, the citizens were going to assume the worst. A dragon flying over Hyrule airspace was considered an act of war according to the Nohanseen Consensuses. The Nohanseen Consensuses was a convention that took place four hundred years ago when one of the dragon kings got too ambitious for his own good. He attempted to thwart the kingdom of Hyrule by force using his dragons, but he was defeated by the Triforce wielding princess at the time. She stopped his assault in midflight when he attempted his aerial strike. I could only imagine what was going through that dragon king's head when he was halted by one young woman. After the incident, the king was stripped of his power, but the grievances of the dragon lords were discussed in a conference now known as the Nohanseen Consensuses. The dragon lords wanted the rights to all their industries without interference from Hyrule. The King of Hyrule at the time wisely granted the dragon lords their wish, but he had the added caveat of stating that the dragon lords could never roam anywhere but over Dragon Roost again. Their free reign of roaming the skies was over. The dragon lords were reluctant to the request, but agreed anyway to keep their industry internal. Seeing the dragon queen fly into Hyrule now was more than shocking, it was downright controversial. However, like any good steward, I was going to get to the bottom of this.

Zelvious and I were in step with each other. I pushed my glasses up my nose.

"Her majesty told me nothing," I replied finally. "Let's hope this is a situation that can be easily rectified."

"Let's hope."

The general and I hurried through Castle Town with a small platoon of guards to meet the queen. The square was packed, and this only heightened the need for delicacy in this situation. The guards quickly created a roadway so that Zelvious and I could meet her majesty in haste. Soon, we were at south Castle Town and we watched as Queen Constance dismounted from her magnificent white dragon alone. I could not lie, the sight of the illumisaurian was a thing to behold. There wasn't a grander animal in all of the kingdoms than the saurian breeds. The majesty of the animal was something that had to be given. I was quite surprised to see Queen Constance by herself, and knew this had to be a diplomatic envoy if anything. As the queen approached, Zelvious and I went to meet her. This sudden admiration was probably out of place, but the dragon queen's beauty may have even rivaled Zelda's. Constance was an older woman of fifty years, but her sparkling green eyes and slightly greying long dark brown hair made her a vision as it blew in the wind. Her beauty was apparent even with her years of maturity.

Zelvious and I bowed at her approach.

"Your majesty, you honor us," I greeted.

Queen Constance stopped short and gave me a quick once over.

"I appreciate the pleasantries good sir, but we must cut them short," she said rather decisively. "I must speak with her majesty Queen Zelda as soon as possible. It is of the utmost importance."

I stared at the queen stunned.

Dear goddesses, what has happened?

"You wish to speak with her majesty?" I asked.

I knew it was a silly question.

"Why do you think I'm here?"

I then immediately gestured for her to walk ahead.

"I understand my lady. Please, would you come with us then?"

The queen nodded, then walked ahead of us. I closed my eyes and prayed for my heart to stop beating so fast. How was I going to explain to her that her trip was in vain? How was going to explain to her that Queen Zelda was not here? I kept my misgivings hidden as I glanced over at Zelvious. He too held the same expression.

"Dear goddesses, we're going to need a miracle now," he muttered.

I couldn't have agreed with him more. It was as I suspected. This situation was more complicated.

Queen Zelda… where are you?

~SSS~

Meanwhile, two days prior in the Sacred Forest Meadow, Zelda

The sword that repels evil's bane was one that I witnessed with my own eyes. I remember vividly when Link fought Ganondorf with it. The sky was darkened. The hordes of Ganondorf's forces were kept at bay. I was no longer able to fight alongside the hero with my arrows of light. It was just him and the Gerudo thief. The giant and the boy from the forest. Their swords clashed. Their fight dragged on. Ganondorf was a nefarious foe, often toying with Link because of his inherent underestimation of him. However, the Gerudo thief's arrogance was also his undoing. He mistook Link's resilience for stupidity. When Ganondorf's guard was down, Link came at him with a series of attacks that left the thief defenseless. It truly was a turning of the tides. Finally, Link overcame him and pierced him through. It was quite the sight, especially with the thunder roaring in the heavens. Even though it was the outcome I hoped for, I had to admit, Ganondorf never felled. He would not allow himself to be toppled. He stood tall while he was pierced through. There was only a slight bend to his knee.

I had to admit, there was something about the Gerudo thief's resolve that was admirable. I didn't recognize that forgetting all that Ganondorf had done. I recognized that wondering what could have been if our circumstances were different. Could Ganondorf had been a good man? What if he had chosen a different path? Could he, Link, and I have united the Triforce? Could we have brought peace to Hyrule if we just worked together? What drove him to live the way he did beyond the foreordained censure? Was the curse from Demise forever going to haunt us? Were we all perpetually bound by a dire fate? I hated that our lives were predetermined in a way. We seemed to have no control over it. The question boded then: were we ever truly free –the hero, Ganondorf, and I? It was something I pondered from time to time. And, I hoped one day I could have closure with the answer. I hoped we could all be free. Even Ganondorf. Fate should have a boundary, should it not? The Gerudo were a mighty, honorable people. It made me feel dejected that Hyrule could not have a lasting relationship with them due to the actions of one male born to them every one hundred years. Ganondorf was not a true representative of the Gerudo people.

To that end, presently, Link, Hylia, Midna, and I were still in the Sacred Forest Meadow. We were enroute to the Master Sword. Initially, I was under the impression that garnering the sword would have been swift. But, we actually had to overcome a trial beset by two guardians. These tall, golem-like machines were the last vestige in protecting the sword from unworthy seekers. The entrance was indeed well protected. As a group, we had to jump over a series of islands in unison. It was our mission to avoid the guardians at all cost. It took a bit of lateral thinking, but we needed to pull off equal opposing actions. If the guardians jumped right, we had to jump left. If the guardians jumped left, we had to jump right, and so forth. Needless to say, there were a few close calls, but we managed to pull through intact. With the last puzzle out of the way, we traversed a canopy of mystical light. It was near the Temple of Time. The light was blinding, and, actually led to a portal. However, Link informed us the sacred sword was not in the temple. That surprised me, because I was certain of all the locales for it to be lodged in, the Temple of Time seemed the most logical. Live and learn. Even so, there was a private aperture beyond the mystical light. Once through, I realized then we had arrived. I could sense the sword was near. There was a serenity in this alcove unlike any place in Hyrule. I was certain these grounds were considered hallowed. When we entered the final clearing, the blade was several yards ahead of us resting in a pedestal. It looked so majestic. I was in awe from the moment I saw it.

Unbelievable.

"There it is," I whispered. "The blade that repels evil's bane."

Link was staring intently at the sword.

"Indeed, it almost seems surreal, doesn't it?"

I nodded.

"It does. I still can't quite believe it."

Hylia, who was standing to my right, crossed her arms over her chest.

"Believe it. That sword is a testimonial relic to history. It's almost as old as me."

That did indeed give credence to the sword's history, given it was forged by Hylia herself. However, at hearing that, Midna glanced over at the goddess puzzled. More and more, ancestral mother was forgetting her ruse.

"Almost as old as you?" the twilight queen repeated cynically. "You might want to give yourself another thousand years good sir. That blade was forged by the Goddess of Hyrule. It is a portal through time itself. There isn't a bone in your body that could assuage such a boast."

The irony was especially caustic, but still, Hylia said nothing in response. She merely nodded at Midna's words.

"Indeed. It seems I misspoke."

I just stared at the goddess. I saw no point in keeping with this guise. Sooner or later, who she really was, was going to have to be divulged.

You might as well reveal who you truly are ancestral mother. You are not keeping in step the way you should anyway.

Hylia raised a bandaged brow. She didn't look my way, but I knew she read my mind. I think she was in agreement with me. However, she said nothing. In any such case, the idle thoughts and talk were ambient noise to the hero as Link walked forward slowly. His focus was apparent. There was something iconic, even legendary, about his approach. How many heroes had taken up this same path? My grandfather, the Hero of Time. My ancestral father, the Hero of Sky. And all the other heroes lost to history. The next age's hero would too have to follow these same footsteps. Right now, I stared on with pride as Link stopped in front of the pedestal, grabbed the handle of the blade, and tugged. He tugged again. He pulled. And, it shifted. Soon, after a few moments, the tang loosened. Then, Link pulled with all his might. It felt surreal seeing the future King of Hyrule wield the Master Sword. As the blade went skyward, there was a beautiful prism of colors cast down from the metallic alloy. It was glorious. It truly was a marvel to behold. There was no doubt in my mind that Link had cemented his legacy. With him wielding the sword once again, he proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that he was this age's rightful hero.

Midna had a particularly fond look in her eyes as she watched Link retake his stand.

"No matter how many times I see that, it never gets old."

The twilight queen was speaking more to herself than any of us. I looked over at her thoughtfully. I had forgotten that she was with Link when he retrieved the sword the first time. Their journey must have been extraordinary. This must have been a bittersweet moment for her. I was aware she was still in love with the hero. I could see it. It wasn't something I could, or would, take away from her. She had a right to her feelings. I understood her feelings. I was in awe of the hero too in this moment. He saved her country. He saved her people. He saved her. Link was equally her hero as much as he was mine. But, I certainly hoped Midna understood where that boundary ended. I was certain she would find happiness one day like the two of us. She was a great woman. She deserved to be happy.

"Absolutely," I agreed.

Hylia was simply taking it all in.

"It's a shame we have to reunite like this under these circumstances." She then looked heavenward. "Oh Link."

Her utterance was more of a private one. It was a slip. She must have been talking about ancestral father. The Hero of Sky. It was interesting that he appeared to me recently and that she was mentioning him now. Maybe the sight of the Hero of Twilight made Hylia think of her beloved hero from the past. Hylia's circumstances may have been bittersweet too. I wonder what her life was like back then. I would wager it was amazing. Sadly, it seemed the only reminder from those days now was that monster Ghirahim.

Ancestral mother, we will stop that demon, I promise.

Hylia glanced over at me in that moment and grinned. I was grateful to her in so many ways, and I wanted her to not give up. Not that she ever would, but even a goddess needed reassurance. Even so, with the sword back in hand, Link sheathed it after swinging it a few times. It must have been liberating.

Midna was first to break the silence.

"How does it feel? How does it feel wielding it again?"

Link stared at the sheathed blade for a long moment. But then pulled it out again and swiped it through the air.

"It feels like old times."

Midna nodded and stared deeply into Link's eyes.

"You're amazing Link. You're really and truly amazing."

I heard the glint. Her inflection was apparent, but I understood. I completely understood. Link was a hard man to let go of. His bravery and valor were unmatched. He had the heart of the nation too. There wasn't a reasonable person who did not appreciate his service.

"Thank you Midna," he said quietly.

The moment extended, until Hylia got everyone back into focus.

"Now that the hero has the sword, we need to make haste. We have no time to lose. We must find the dragon prince before Ghirahim does."

I nodded.

We had delayed enough.

"Sheik is right. We must go, let's be off." Everyone was in agreement. However, I soon realized we now had a different dilemma to consider. One that was being overlooked. I decided then to mention it. "We have a decision to make first though. Which destination do we head to: the Arbiter's Grounds, or Hyrule Castle?"

My inquiry was met with puzzled faces.

Link was the first to speak up.

"Why would we go back to Hyrule now? We are looking for Elbourne. Our best bet is to track him near the Arbiter's Grounds."

I understood his summation, but there were other things he wasn't realizing.

"That may be true, but we need to consider the potential fallout of Xavier and Elbourne not being with us. We have no idea where either of them are. What if their missing whereabouts gets back to Dragon Roost?"

Link then got the gist of my concerns.

"Right. The Roostians will have been in the dark for weeks now. They have no idea what has happened to their king or their prince."

I nodded.

"And regarding the prince, he was last rumored to be with me. We have no idea how long either of them was gone before we intercepted each other. They may claim that I had something to do with their disappearance."

Link gave me an offhanded look just then.

"That's a bit farfetched, don't you think?"

Hylia then chimed in.

"Her majesty might have a point. There is no way to know for certain how the Roostians are taking the departure of their king and prince. Increased silence and deference may lead to war with the dragon lords."

The hero was suddenly taken aback.

"The Roostians wouldn't be foolish enough to start a war they know they cannot win."

Hylia recognized his point, but then cautioned.

"That may be true, but the two people who can stop their dragon riders with no qualms are right here, not in Hyrule. You and her majesty may have the power of the Triforces to halt their saurians, but they can do incredible damage before you get back to the kingdom."

It was a sobering thought, and one I hadn't considered right away. With that, I made the quick decision.

"Then there is nothing further to discuss. We must head back to Hyrule."

However, Link still was not completely convinced.

"What if our doing so allows Ghirahim to capture Elbourne? What then?"

There was a brief silence with his inquiries. He had a point, but I had a rebuttal.

"We are still not one hundred percent certain where Elbourne is," I said finally. "The Arbiter's Grounds is just a hunch. With Hyrule, there is the uncertainty of Dragon Roost being misguided and attacking the people under false pretenses. We cannot take that chance."

There was another silence, but I think the point was too compelling to simply forego.

"Alright," Link said finally. "Alright, we will go to Hyrule first. But, if we are going to do so, we must leave now. It will take five days to get there from here, and that is if we are swift about walking."

I looked around at the others to see if there were any more objections. There were none. Our destination had been decided. It was going to be a long walk, and I wondered if there was some way we could expedite our travel. A supercilious notion, with the added context of wishful thinking. Also too, I noticed Midna hadn't said much in the preceding conversation. I wondered if the elements were bothering her. I was aware she could circulate through her realm with no problems, but how would extended exposure to pure light affect her? I was concerned with this because I didn't want a light world problem to be the cause her sickness, or worst yet, her demise. I decided not to keep my thoughts to myself.

"Midna, how are you holding up? The environment isn't too extreme for you, is it?"

The twilight queen looked at me surprised.

"I'm fine. Why do you ask?"

I then divulged my concerns.

"I am aware that one of the main reasons you destroyed the mirror was because you stated that light dwellers and twilight dwellers couldn't coexist in the same space. I just wanted to be sure that the realm itself was suitable for your body type. I've never seen you outside of one's shadow lurking in pure light. So, I was just inquiring."

She seemed appreciative of my concern.

"Well, I will be honest with you, my people are known for getting what we call 'light dwellers sickness' if we linger in the light too long. So far, there has been no need for me to lurk in anyone's shadow. But, if the sun's radiation becomes too great, then I will let you know."

Link glanced over at Midna regarding her disclosure.

"Is that the condition you had after Zant's attack? I remember Lanayru was utilized for a significant purge on your body."

Midna nodded.

"Yes. I was quite scared to be honest. I didn't think I was going to make it."

Link looked away from her in that instant.

"I was scared you weren't going to make it either. Your condition was something similar to what I had some years ago called 'twilight sickness'. I was exposed to too much twilight radiation and I got very ill myself."

Midna was quiet at his response for a long time.

"It seems fate must have been telling us something then Link. We should have known all along that we couldn't be together."

The hero and I stared at the queen surprised, but not too surprised. Some of what was being presented by her was coming from a place of hurt. Even so, it made the mood slightly uncomfortable.

"Oh... I suppose," he replied anyway. "Well, I guess all things happen for a reason."

Not the wittiest answer from the hero, but I understand his dilemma. I decided to negate this before it went too far. I knew Midna was still reeling from her feelings, but she needed to understand that Link was with me now.

"In any such case," I segued, "the important thing is that you let us know if you need to stop or shadow lurk for awhile. I don't want you stroking out from the intensity of the Hylian sun."

Midna shifted her gaze from Link back to me. She probably saw some of what I was doing as an imposition. And, I had to admit, I wanted to be an imposition. I wasn't going to just stand around and have little quips said to me or my hero. We were in a courtship, and it needed to be respected.

"Thank you for your concern my lady," Midna replied. "And don't worry, I will."

Hylia was silent during our conversation. She, more than anyone, looked ready to go. I was with her. It was time to move out. We all knew how to be civil. And, with our small band compliant for now, we left the area of the Master Sword and started for Hyrule Castle. We had a long five days ahead of us.

~SSS~

Five days later, the present, Hyrule Castle Town

It seemed the world had changed as we traveled through Hyrule Field over the past five days. The canyon that used to illuminate Kakariko Gorge was all but a memory now. The heavens were more clearly visible, but the lie that was kept secret was gone. It seemed haunting in a way. Midna's health was as I feared two days into our trek. When we hit the greater expanses of the field, she had to disappear into a shadow, particularly Link's shadow. It was no matter. I understood her bias. Even so, I was worried the Hylian sun was going to make her regret her decision in coming to the world of light. Even so, the twilight monarch persevered and didn't complain once. Still, I hoped she wouldn't keep silent if something serious came about.

Soon, the spires of Hyrule Castle came into view. It was around midday, and considering our entourage, we were going to make quite a stir. I didn't think there was any way we could be less conspicuous. It seemed like a trial in futility, even when I put my cloak on. If Midna stayed in Link's shadow and Link and I cloaked up, we might be able to travel through Castle town with minimal distraction. The only issue would be Hylia, and given her demeanor, no one would come up and question her. Still, Sheikahs weren't that common these days. Once we got to town, it would all be about navigating to the castle and securing ourselves inside. I needed to meet with my men to update them on everything that had transpired. Also, I needed to possibly think about gathering all my subjects to the underground keep to ensure their safety given the gravity of Ghirahim's threat. It would be easier to protect the people as a collective, than to defend them in the open fields, with villages scattered about the provinces. Not all the subjects would be happy at it, but a momentary discomfort was sometimes necessary for the greater good.

Hyrule Castle now became the prominent fixture in the distance. But, suddenly I halted when I took note of a rather large animal resting on the northern grasslands in the distance. A quite grand animal actually. Link and Hylia stopped as well when they saw it.

"Is that a dragon?" Link asked.

I couldn't believe my eyes.

"Indeed it is. The Queen of Dragon Roost's dragon to be specific."

The hero looked on surprised.

"Lightning."

I was impressed.

"You remember the illumisaurian's name."

He didn't take his eyes off the grand beast in the distance.

"It's hard to forget when there are only two white dragons in existence. And I rode the other one in the past."

Link was referring to the Dragon Gala six years back when he rode as a rider. The goddess was indifferent about the news.

"She must be worried about the dragon prince," was all she said.

Link and I were silent for a moment.

Worried is probably an understatement ancestral mother. And given what I know now, I have a deeper understanding and respect for Constance. That woman has been through hell.

The goddess seemed to follow my course of thought.

"More than you know."

Sobering words.

The twilight monarch then chimed in and redirected the subject.

"Do you think it's wise for us to enter from the main gate? Is there a secret passage way we could enter through?"

Midna had a point. The more I milled through this, the more I saw going through Castle Town as a problem. I was certain the whole square was abuzz with talk. The Queen of Dragon Roost was in Hyrule, which meant my premonition was right.

"There is one way, but we may have already been spotted by the watchmen stationed in the towers," I explained. "If we keep a low profile we should have no problem entering the city and heading straight for the castle."

My words were met with no rebuttals, but the confidence was not necessarily there either. All it took was one pair of nosy eyes to ruin our cover. Even so, Link and Hylia finally nodded.

"If we proceed quickly, we shouldn't have an issue," the hero agreed.

The goddess had no qualms either.

"It seems it's our only option."

And so it was, the decision was made.

"Let's be off then. The sooner we head through the town, the sooner we can figure out what is going on with the queen."

With that, we continued on our trek across Hyrule Field until we reached the south gate entrance. We proceeded through the protocols of security checks, and went in relatively unscathed. There were a couple of double takes of Link at the onset, but the guards probably mistook him for a look-a-like. We finally headed into the belly of the beast. Castle Town was packed that afternoon. I had no idea what was going on. Maybe it was excitement about the queen. Maybe there was a sale going on. Maybe the goods were of particular merit this time of day. I wasn't privy to the day to day business of Castle Town. This could have been the norm. Link then took hold of my hand and pulled me to him.

"Stay close," he whispered in my ear.

I simply nodded and did as he instructed. The hero took the lead and started making his way through the crowd. I was feeling a bit anxious, but calmed down once I saw the main square come into view. However, unfortunately as I walked by, a man's foot got caught on my cloak for a moment and tugged. A second later, my hood pulled off.

"Excuse me miss," he apologized.

I hurried to reassemble my covering.

"It's fine good sir. It is quite crowded today."

It was then the man did a double take and got a very good look at my face. His eyes widened in surprise. I avoided his gaze and kept myself turned away.

"Wait a minute… aren't you… your majesty?" he trailed suspiciously.

I was quick to rebut him.

"I have no idea what you mean. You are mistaken."

The man was insistent.

"But my lady-"

"You are mistaken sir!"

There was obviously too much verve in my voice. I wish I had been more prudent, but what was done was done. I pressed myself closer to Link. Hylia behind me, tried to push me along.

"Let's make haste," the goddess whispered. "We're about to become a sideshow if we don't hurry."

That was what I was afraid of. I hoped the man would leave the matter alone, but unfortunately he started whispering to his fellow worker. Link heard everything, but remained calm. Instead, he quickened his pace. The other man talking to the first then spoke up.

"I think you're right!" he said rather loudly. "I think that woman is the queen!"

At his utterance, there was a sudden hush in the immediate area surrounding us. The only persons moving were our party. I was increasingly getting nervous.

Oh no!

"What?"

"What do you mean?"

People began to look around.

"Where is the queen?"

We were then spotted.

"There!"

There was a bit of confusion.

"I don't see who you are speaking of."

"She's the woman in the hood walking with the tall man in the cloak. She's right there!"

Pointing then ensued.

"I think you are right."

Hylia's disguise was then put on display.

"Why is she with a Sheikah?"

Some of the crowd missed seeing the goddess.

"There's a Sheikah too?"

This was becoming cumbersome. I wished now we took our chance with a secret passage way.

So much for a low profile.

"Well, then who's the tall brute?"

Another man stepped forward at the inquiry.

"Let's find out, shall we?"

The man reached and yanked on the hero's cloak purposefully as we walked by. Suddenly, Link was on full display. The crowd gasped when they recognized him.

"Link!" several people said in unison.

"It's the hero!"

The hero then turned to look at me.

"I guess there's no sense hiding any longer," he said to me. "Come on."

He then took me in his arms and hurried through the crowd. The crowd gasped at the action.

"Why is the hero with the queen?"

"Don't they hate each other?"

I was surprised to hear that that was still an issue, but the people had no idea what was going on in the immediacy.

"Wasn't there a rumor going around that the hero got married to a woman who resembled the queen? Maybe that's who that is."

I was surprised at hearing that too.

That rumor still had credence?

Link forged ahead ignoring everyone. Ancestral mother was close behind me.

"Don't mind them," the goddess whispered. "Just keep moving."

"I heard that rumor was false! What would the hero be doing here now, and with a Sheikah too?!"

Everyone seemed to have an opinion.

"That is Link! And he's holding onto that girl next to him."

A woman was staring hard at my hooded face.

"I think that is the queen!"

Their voices carried down the alleyway like a wave. Midna grunted from Link's shadow.

"They act like they've never seen the hero before," she said quietly.

The twilight monarch had a point. This display was unbelievable.

"I couldn't agree with you more," I whispered back.

As we walked by, another woman got in our path to stare at me.

Link was growing tired of this.

"Madam, please step out of the way!"

The woman covered her mouth and gasped

"As I live and breathe! That is the queen the hero is trying to hide! But I thought she was with Prince Elbourne!"

Her notion was exactly why we needed to get to the castle. The more speculative this became, the more dangerous this could become. It was clear now that everyone knew who Link and I were. There seemed to be no need to hide it any longer. I then took off my hood as Link led the way. A collective gasp came once the suspicions of the people were confirmed. There were even some cheers. I couldn't lie, I was surprised.

"Her majesty is back!"

"Did you enjoy your trip your majesty?"

The rumors then began to surface.

"How was Balaam?"

"Was Prince Elbourne dashing my lady?"

"Where is his highness?"

That, I had no answer for.

"My lady, did you know the dragon queen is here?"

Who could ignore an illumisaurian?

I know now.

"What do you suppose the dragon masters want now? Is everything alright?"

That is what I intend to figure out.

There was one comment that was particularly gracious.

"Wow, she's much prettier up close."

I turned my head to look for the woman who uttered that. I grinned when I found her and mouthed, 'Thank you.'

The woman was surprised and blushed.

"She spoke to me dear!" she whispered to her husband shocked. "I can't believe it!"

As the pandemonium grew, we pushed through to the heart of the main square. As soon as we entered, the crowd was still abuzz with chatter. However, we forged forward and made our way finally to the castle entrance. The crowd was close behind us, but stayed at a distance as we ascended the few steps. The guards waiting to greet us looked on stunned.

"Your-your majesty!" one of them stammered. "I had no idea you were returning today!"

I then loosened myself from the hero's grip and stepped forward.

"I did not announce I was coming," I said matter-of-factly. "I realize this spectacle is very untoward, but please open the gate. I understand I have a very important guest."

The two guards didn't hesitate.

"Yes ma'am," he replied. "The dragon queen has been here for several days. She seemed very eager to meet with you."

That was none too reassuring, but I was grateful for the heads up. I hoped my men made her comfortable.

"I'm going to see her now," I said.

Soon after, they opened the door and my entourage entered with me. Link and Hylia followed close behind as the guards and citizens inhabiting the halls stared at us stunned as we walked by. Everyone bowed, and I had a feeling I knew where my men were having conference at this time. It was early afternoon and my counselors often convened at this time to discuss the audiences for the day. I imagine Queen Constance had taken up most of the time devoted to that, but I was willing to bet they were in the counsel room about now. When the guards in the distance saw us approaching, they immediately bowed and opened the door for us to enter. I assumed there was going to be protest. However, before Shad could utter a word, he stared at me astounded and even looked a little relieved.

"Your majesty!" the scholar said surprised.

I looked over all the participants at the table: my three trusted generals Gunter, Zelvious, and Maximillion, along with Shad, and her majesty Queen Constance.

"Good afternoon," I greeted formally.

Shad stood and bowed immediately.

"My lady..." he said shocked, "had I known you were returning..."

I halted him so as not to make a bigger deal of this than necessary.

"Don't worry about that. I informed no one of my return."

Shad stared at me astonished, but then shook his head when he gestured to the illustrious dragon queen.

"You have an honored guest my lady. Her majesty was eager to meet with you."

I looked over at Queen Constance.

"So I've heard." I then walked over to where the queen was sitting and bowed respectfully. "Hyrule is blessed to have you with us my queen."

Queen Constance nodded in return.

"Your words are comforting my dear. I was worried about your prolonged departure."

I wasn't sure what to make of that.

"There is a great deal I need to divulge to you regarding that," I explained. "I'm actually very glad you are here."

In that moment, Midna then decided to transmogrify. It made the most sense. If we were going to have a discussion regarding the state of Hyrule, the Twilight Realm, and Dragon Roost, all the participants in that discussion needed to be present. Midna's transformation was quite swift. Even so, everyone not knowing of her presence gasped when the twilight monarch materialized. My men and the dragon queen stared on astounded.

"Queen Midna!" Constance whispered.

Midna curtsied.

"My lady," she greeted, then added; "and, I thought my people made a ruckus."

Midna's joke seemed lost by their looks of disbelief.

"Unbelievable," Gunter whispered, "how is this even possible?"

A fitting question. However, a response was given I wasn't intending to hear.

"The Twilight Mirror has been reforged," Constance uttered quietly. "It is back together."

I shifted my gaze to her.

How in the world could she possibly know that? Unless… Xavier…

Hylia glanced my way without saying a word. Gunter looked over at the dragon queen with a hint of cynicism.

"Impossible," he said, "it was destroyed."

Midna met eyes with him.

"I'm afraid that is not the case," she corrected. "Her majesty is right."

Shad looked dumbfounded and sat back down.

"So the Mirror of Twilight has been reforged?"

Link then chimed in.

"Well… yes and no."

Confusion was starting to give way to frustration.

"I don't understand," Zelvious said, "which is it? Is the mirror back or not?"

There was a brief silence between everyone after the inquiry. I knew this discussion couldn't begin this way. This needed to have the correct foundation. A solid basis, so understanding wouldn't be lost. There was a great deal to go over, and I needed to bring my men up to speed. Besides that, something tells me that Constance was going to be more of an asset than she realized. She was the first to utter the accurate admission.

"Before we go any further, I need to make you aware of everything that has transpired," I started. "I think it is important for me to divulge this to you at this time, because I have grave tidings. We are going to have to prepare ourselves and our people for something truly devastating."

There was a hush about the room now, but my men were paying keen attention.

"What do you mean my lady?" Maximillion asked.

It was the proper cue.

"As you all know, I came to you a few months back stating I was on an important mission," I went on. "I told you that I was sent on a quest by the Goddess of Hyrule herself. Well, the hero and I stumbled upon a great many things in the succeeding weeks. The first being the gathering of some secretly disposed shards that made up the second Mirror of Twilight. To answer your question Zelvious, yes indeed the mirror is back. But it is also as Master Link has stated, that it is not the same mirror that her majesty Queen Midna destroyed seven years ago."

Everyone was following me thus far.

"The shards were then taken to the Arbiter's Grounds and placed in the mantle where the last known piece resided. When… when the mirror was placed back together, something unexpected happened."

I paused just then. I glanced over at Constance, who had a knowing look on her face.

"What happened your majesty?" she asked anyway.

I pursed my lips together before I continued.

"There was a being that was trapped in that mirror. A being of unknown immense power. Throughout my journey there were a series of clues pointing to him. A strange mystery regarding a creature known as the Arbiter's Kiss. Well, it turns out the creature is from an ancient era of Hyrule. He is known as the Demon Lord, Ghirahim."

When I uttered the monster's name, everyone in the room stared at me stunned.

"Ghirahim?" Shad repeated. "Isn't he-"

"The servant of Demise," Hylia interrupted. "Yes."

The scholar shifted his eyes to the goddess.

"Who are you?"

Hylia crossed her arms over her chest.

"I intercepted her majesty and the hero on their journey. I am merely a servant wanting to protect Hyrule."

I wasn't sure how I felt about her still keeping her secret, but I would respect it for now. Shad too, found Hylia's explanation a little unorthodox. Even so, he didn't question it. Instead, he turned his attention back to me. I then went on.

"It is with great regret that I have to tell you this news about Ghirahim. It was never my intention to set that monster free."

Gunter shook his head. "I don't understand, why would the goddess have you do such a thing?"

This was where things could get convoluted.

"The goddess did not set me out on this quest to release Ghirahim. She set me out to collect the shards and relinquish them to her."

The confusion was still there.

"Then why wasn't that done?" Shad asked.

Link then spoke up.

"Because her majesty was also doing a favor for me. She may have told you before that I was just a hired hand, but that wasn't simply the case. Her majesty was attempting to get me back to the Twilight World so I could be reunited with a dear friend."

Maximillion raised his brows.

"So… knowing that there was an ancient monster attached to the mirror, my queen you decided to put the mirror together anyway?"

Hylian then groaned in frustration.

"Queen Zelda had no idea what was attached that mirror. No one except for a few select people knew what was attached to that mirror. It is inconsequential asking such a question."

The general cut his eyes to the goddess.

"Since when does a Sheikah have the authority to speak in matters related to Hyrule?"

This was not going to bode well.

Link didn't have to, but he spoke up anyway.

"Sheik is no ordinary Sheikah. It would be wise for you not to assume the identity of someone you just met."

Maximillion stared at the hero surprised, then looked back over at Hylia. The goddess said nothing. I then decided to go on before the conversation got sidetracked again.

"In any such case, Ghirahim is back. When released, he went through the mirror to the Twilight Realm to destabilize the region. He was successful using… using unconventional methods."

Constance raised a brow.

"What do you mean?"

Midna then spoke up.

"I think I should intercede here."

I gestured for the twilight monarch to take the floor.

"Please do."

Midna nodded.

"Thank you. Prior to Queen Zelda, Master Link, and the dragon prince's arrival, I received an impromptu visit from his majesty King Xavier. King Xavier came to me asking me about any unusual sightings within my realm. I thought that was odd considering he hadn't seen me in months, but I didn't think anything of it at the time. I have an alliance with Dragon Roost, so I thought his visit was part and parcel related to that."

Constance was slightly taken aback.

"Xavier came to you?"

Midna nodded.

"He did. I wasn't sure why at first until he presented me with a gift."

My men were still reeling from the disclosure.

"Forgive me my lady," Zelvious interceded, "but how is that possible? How was King Xavier able to enter your world before the mirror was put back together?"

It seemed there would be no secrets today.

Midna pause for a moment.

"It is as I've stated before. Dragon Roost became my ally, and because of such I allowed a portal to be accessed only through Dragon Roost. I understand that it was a controversial decision at the time, but for the greater good of my people, I made my choice."

My steward stared at her dumbfounded.

"For the greater good? With all due respect your majesty, the Hero of Twilight saved your people. More than anything such a privilege should have been bestowed upon Hyrule."

The twilight monarch was not appreciative of the intersession.

"I make that decision good sir, not you. Besides, her majesty and I have already spoken on this."

There was a bit of tension in the room now.

"Even so, such a decision cannot be made without the emissaries of all nations being aware," Gunter added. "What if Hyrule secretly accessed the Twilight Realm without your permission my lady? How would that make you feel?"

Midna narrowed her eyes slightly.

"Do you dare question me?"

Gunter watched his tone.

"I say this to you with no disrespect, but the sovereign of my country is Queen Zelda Nohanseen of Hyrule. Anyone who acts against her, acts against the country."

Midna did not flinch, but thought to be more reasonable.

"Your point is well taken. Now, please try to see it from my point of view too."

"I am attempting your grace," Shad added. "I cannot see how an alliance with Dragon Roost over Hyrule –an alliance made in secret mind you– makes anyone more safe."

Midna placed a hand on her hip.

"It's as I've stated before, I owe an explanation to no one here but their majesties Queen Zelda and Queen Constance."

My men were quiet after that, but it only made the situation substantially more uncomfortable.

"As you wish my lady," Zelvious stated quietly. "We will see what the future holds."

I didn't need my men making veiled threats.

"Are you trying to intimidate me good sir?" Midna demanded.

This had gone far enough.

"Stop this," I interjected. "This is not what we should be doing right now and we know it. There is a bigger threat on the horizon. Us unraveling at the seams will do nothing to stop what's coming. We need to focus." I turned my attention back to the twilight queen. "Was there anything else you wanted to add?"

Midna was staring at Zelvious before she cut her gaze back to me.

"I was going to impart what the gift was before I was so rudely interrupted. So, yes, I have more to say. Anyway, apparently King Xavier came to my country in secret for more than inquiring about the stability of my realm. He also came to give me a necklace. It turns out the jewelry that he gave me was of ill-gotten origins."

Shad was taken aback.

"What do you mean?"

Midna paused for a moment.

"The necklace put a spell on me," she divulged. "I was subdued for a prolonged period of time, and it was only because of the actions of the hero, Queen Zelda, and Prince Elbourne that I am able to speak with you all right now."

At hearing that, Zelvious scoffed more to himself.

"So much for trust," he muttered sarcastically.

I looked over at my general myself now, wishing he would stop with the impropriety.

"Lord Zelvious you are better than this," I chastised. "Control yourself."

He met my gaze for a moment. He nodded before acknowledging my words.

"You are right of course. Forgive me my lady."

Queen Constance went to backtrack on something that was previously disclosed.

"I need clarification on something," she started. "My son was mentioned twice already. When did you meet up with him?"

Link spoke up at that point.

"His highness met up with Queen Zelda and I quite by accident. We had no idea he was even pursuing us, until we came across each other at the Arbiter's Grounds. It seems he too knew some information regarding the mirror and went to investigate it."

Constance looked troubled with what was just disclosed.

"If that is the case, where is he now? Why isn't he with you?"

There was a brief silence that came upon the room. Perhaps I should have answered more quickly to give the needed reassurance, but it seemed I missed that threshold.

Constance's concerns grew.

"Why isn't the prince with you?" she asked again.

I took in a deep sigh and decided to give the answer without all the unnecessary details.

"After we obtained the item to reawaken Midna, a series of events led to me to being captured by that creature Ghirahim. I was taken to another realm where Master Link came and saved me. I lost sight of Elbourne last in the Twilight Realm."

"We all did," Link added. "Prince Elbourne was our primary guide during Midna's slumber, as he knew the landscape in the Twilight Realm better than anyone in our group. A place within the realm known as the Sacrosanct Paddock was a gateway to Ghirahim's lair. When I jumped through to rescue Queen Zelda, I expected to come back to the Twilight Realm. However, after intercepting the same point, the queen and I found ourselves back in Hyrule away from everyone else. The queen was nursed for several days before Sheik and Queen Midna found us in the Sacred Forest Meadow."

This was all fascinating news, but it did nothing to allay Constance's concerns.

"That doesn't answer my question."

Hylia then chimed in.

"The last person to see his highness between the four of us was me," she explained. "While we were at the Sacrosanct Paddock, his highness did not want to wait for Master Link to return. The reason the portal linking Ghirahim's lair to the Twilight Realm collapsed was because Prince Elbourne jumped through desiring to rescue her majesty with the hero. I warned him of what that could do, but he jumped through anyway. His actions were noble, though very foolish."

Constance raised a brow at the goddess's words.

"You are rather blunt for a Sheikah. I thought your people had more respect in their speech to others than this."

Hylia rolled her eyes. Not the most conventional move.

"Please tell me where I was disrespectful my lady."

General Gunter spoke up before the queen could.

"Your whole manner is off putting honestly. I find it hard to take you seriously when you can't even respect the rank of the people in this room."

Hylia then glanced over at the general and stared him down.

"The rank of the people in this room?" she repeated. "Are you serious good sir?"

Gunter didn't flinch.

"I didn't stutter."

Hylia groaned audibly, obviously having had enough of all these formalities.

"Let me see if I can rectify that."

My ears perked at her utterance. The general she was speaking to was taken aback at her words. When I looked around the room, everyone was astonished with the exception of Link and I. I then glanced over at the goddess knowingly and nodded, realizing what she was about to do.

It's about time.

"I agree," Hylia said aloud, then snapped her fingers.

In an instant, white light encompassed the room. A moment later, Hylia transformed to her true self. She was wearing her white gown and her long golden blonde hair flowed down her back. There was a mild luminescence surrounding her that she did not have before, and I think it was to show her ethereal state. Everyone stared at the goddess stunned. Hylia looked at each of their faces and levitated slightly to show she was more than an optical illusion. My men stirred slightly, but out of reverence. Queen Constance and Queen Midna were both awestruck. Hylia looked over at me and grinned before addressing the bewildered group.

"I am Hylia, Goddess of Hyrule," she announced. "I am the one who sent my ancestral daughter on this quest. I did not disclose everything to her, because, like everyone, I am bound by universal laws. However, the threat of Ghirahim was great enough for me to bend some of those laws without destroying the universe in the process. As I stated before, the dragon prince was last seen with me, but when he jumped through the portal, I lost sight of him. I returned to the Twilight Palace to inform the queen of what happened. It was then her majesty came with me back to the Sacrosanct Paddock and jumped through the portal. We ended up regrouping with her majesty Queen Zelda and the hero after she was nursed back to health. Our first priority was finding the dragon prince because we lost sight on him."

Her words rang throughout the room, but everyone looked too awe inspired to properly respond.

"Your… your excellency," Shad whispered.

My generals were equally as dumbfounded.

Maximillion stood first.

"Your grace had I known it was you…"

He didn't finish.

"You're real," Gunter whispered. "You do exist."

Hylia looked over at him.

"I don't know why you would think I wouldn't. Where do you think the power of the combined Triforce comes from?" She raised a brow. "Oh you of little faith."

Queen Constance stood, then immediately bowed. Seeing her do so made everyone in the room follow her lead. I had been around Hylia for so long, that some of who she really was, was lost from me. I was glad people like Constance were around to remind me of the goddess's reverence again. She was the Goddess of Hyrule. The Goddess of Hyrule.

Constance was the first to rise from her obeisance.

"Your excellency," she whispered, "I am honored to be in your presence. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be speaking to someone as majestic as you. The subject of rank has suddenly become null and void."

I think that was the point she was trying to make.

Hylia met Constance's gaze.

"My queen, I understand your grievances more than you will ever know. As such, I will help you find your son."

Constance stared at her with a hint of disbelief.

"You… you want to help Elbourne?" she whispered.

Her inflection was apparent.

The goddess paused for a moment before she nodded.

"I understand him. I know who he really is as a person. I promise you, I will find him."

Constance took in a relieved breath and tears filled her eyes. It was actually quite touching, and suddenly I realized what Hylia just said. I stared at the goddess.

You… you know, don't you?

Hylia didn't utter anything out loud, but she nodded subtly to my thoughts. I then glanced over at Link who was staring intently at the dragon queen. He must have sensed it too. The hero then met my gaze.

"It seems unmasking day finally arrived," he joked.

I grinned.

"It seems so."

Midna, however, was still taken aback.

"You are not the Sheikah," she uttered more to herself than anyone. "You are so much more your grace."

Hylia looked over at the twilight queen.

"I apologize for the deception, but I had to protect my ancestral daughter. Me being at her side was the one way I could ensure that."

Midna shook her head.

"No one would fault you for wanting to protect your bloodline your excellency. I am just in awe."

Everyone in that room was mesmerized. I was actually quite impressed with Hylia's mannerisms. She wasn't acting like her normal brazen self, and I attributed that to the importance of this conversation. Even so, there were still many things we needed to go over. The protection of the city was one, and the entourage that would go after the dragon prince was another. I decided to shift the conversation to those subjects.

"Hylia indeed is a force of nature, with her in our midst we have true protection. To that end and with that stated, Ghirahim is planning a strike. I want all the citizens in the surrounding provinces to come to Hyrule for protection. The siege protocols will work best here, but we must implement them now. A decree needs to be written, and the people must obey it for their own protection."

Shad then glanced my way.

"My lady, that might be difficult to gather the citizens who live in remote enclaves. What of them?"

I paused for a moment and turned to Link for his input.

"Master Link?"

The hero was surprised at my redirection, so he cleared his throat.

"There are security shelters built throughout the provinces. People who live in the mountains, or in the far off regions are better suited to find shelter there. The decree can be sent via carrier hawk to ensure each province receives a notification. The people must know immediately because we don't know when the monster will strike."

The goddess then chimed in.

"We have a little time because the Master Sword is in the hero's possession. That one act has the biggest consequence to this endeavor. Ghirahim wants to summon his master by purging the sword into darkness."

My men were on alert at hearing that.

"Does Ghirahim have any forces?" Maximillion asked.

That was an important question.

Link spoke up.

"Ghirahim was using shadow beasts to attack us when we traversed the world of twilight. However, since the realm is not the same, he won't be able to use those methods to attack the people here. Shadow beasts cannot survive outside of twilight."

General Gunter saw that as a problem.

"How are we going to justify keeping the people behind the castle walls when there is no threat beyond one foe? The citizens will protest."

This was ludicrous.

"Ghirahim will try and destroy Hyrule," I rebutted. "I think that is reason enough."

Shad appreciated my candor, but understood the general's concern.

"The people are fickle when it comes to their freedom. If you impose something on them without giving them all the facts, they will turn on you. A 'do as I say' approach is not the proper way to go about this."

I was open for suggestions.

"Then, what should we do?"

Shad got up from the table and fixed his glasses.

"The most diplomatic approach would be to involve the citizens in the collection of goods and services meant for their survival. Give them as many facts as possible. Also, I think the decree should be written and oral. If you face your people, they will be more inclined to listen to you."

Hylia looked impressed. She nodded.

"That's a good idea. I like this guy. He makes sense."

Shad blushed inadvertently. It made a few at the table chuckle.

"Why… thank you your excellency," he said anyway.

I glanced over at Link who also was chuckling.

"Behind every great queen is a great steward."

No truer words could have been spoken.

"Then it is decided," I replied. "Shad I want you to dictate the decree as soon as we are done conferencing here so I can speak to the people immediately."

The scholar nodded and thought nothing of it.

"It will be done."

Zelvious chimed in too.

"As soon as the official decree is penned, we will send word to the provinces right away. I will also get the masons started on fortifying the outer wall. We will defend the castle as long as we can. The crypts eventually lead to the mountains outside the city. If the people need to escape that way, I will ready some men to lead them."

This was all excellent news. However, I still needed to confer one last thing.

"Now that the city and citizen evacuation is organized, we need to put together a group that will go after the dragon prince. We must find him and protect him."

I may have said too much with that last statement.

"Protect him?" Maximilion repeated. "I understand he is a high valued target, but can we risk using resources to find him with Ghirahim on the prowl?"

He is what Ghirahim wants, I didn't add.

I paused for a moment and looked over at Constance. I was certain those were words she did not want to hear. Then, without a second thought, she stood from the table.

"I volunteer," she said. "I will look for my son myself."

Everyone then stared at her taken aback.

"My lady…"Shad trailed, "I do not think that is wise."

Link agreed with the scholar.

"Nor do I. There are too many royals missing as it is. We cannot risk you being lost too."

Constance looked determined.

"I will no longer just sit here when I can be useful. Elbourne is my only child. I cannot leave him to fate. I must try to find him."

Midna raised a brow and gave her a knowing look.

"With all due respect my lady, what if he is in a compromised situation? How will you help him? You are not a warrior. You are a lady of grace and dignity. I mean no disrespect, but you would only get in the way."

Blunt words, but the dragon queen was not swayed.

"My dear twilight queen, you have no idea who truly stands before you. I have been through more than you could possibly imagine. I may appear stoic to you and my people, but I have my own kind of strength that is unique to me. I know this because Elbourne is my son. It has never been easy being the mother of such a controversial young man. I will not be useless. If I see a danger, I will avoid it. I have my illumisaurian. But, I will not be told I cannot look for my son."

There was a brief silence that filled the room. I understood Constance's words more than she could ever know. I saw the pain in her eyes. I saw the hurt she was trying to conceal. I knew what strength she was talking about, but even at this time, it would not be enough. Ghirahim would kill her to get to her son, and her death could be the catalyst that compromises Elbourne. She had no idea what Ghirahim intended to do once he had the Master Sword, the dragon prince, and Mirror of Twilight all in the same place. I had a feeling that monster was planning to kill her son one way or another. Constance witnessing that or being the cause of that would break her.

It was then I spoke up.

"Your majesty, I will lead the charge in finding your son. He was last with me. I will not leave him to fate. Despite everything, the dragon prince has always been loyal to me."

Link stepped up next to me.

"I am going with her too your grace. It is my duty to protect the queen, especially in this endeavor to find Prince Elbourne. But even beyond that, we could not have traversed the Twilight Realm without his highness's help. We owe him. It would be unthinkable for us to leave his fate to chance."

Hylia glanced our way. She was in agreement with everything being said.

"I will accompany them as well your majesty," the goddess added. "I have grown a certain fondness for that unpredictable prince. The three of us will find him."

Constance looked taken aback.

"You your excellency?" she asked of the goddess. "But why you when you should be here with your people?"

Hylia raised a brow.

"The Roostians are my people my lady," she corrected kindly. "It is my duty to protect them too. It seems that fact has been lost because of civil strife and land territories. Hyrule will be fine. The best men are here to protect them."

Hylia's words were a comfort. However, Shad was quick to interject. He had his own misgivings.

"My queen," he was speaking to me, "I don't think it's wise that you and the hero go looking for the dragon prince. The same situation with the dragon queen will be present with you."

I glanced over at my steward.

"Sir Shad, I have been traveling the world for months now. Finding the prince is technically my responsibility since he was last seen in my company. I will be fine. I have two of the absolute best coming with me."

Shad was not swayed and looked over at Link in particular.

"We all know how excellent Master Link is, and there are no words for the fortitude of her excellency the Goddess Hylia. However, the two of them going should be all the more reason for you to stay behind."

I was surprised at his frank talk.

"This decision is mine to make alone Sir Shad."

The scholar did not let up.

"It's a decision I sincerely think you need to reconsider."

This was becoming circular. I was done with this discussion.

"There's nothing to reconsider."

Shad then lost a bit of his composure. It was rare for him.

"There is a great deal to consider! Your safety being the foremost thing! It has been a constant concern of mi- of-of all of us here! You leaving like this is not prudent! You have already been gone too long!"

My eyes widened slightly and I stared at him stunned, as did everyone. There was a definite silence that followed. Shad's worry was coming from a deeper place of unease. I could hear it in his tone. His feelings were so overwhelming, that he could not hide beneath his veil any longer. I was touched he was so concerned. But, this was bigger than just me. This was bigger than all of us. Shad had no idea that Ghirahim was pursuing Elbourne to take over Hyrule. I could not convey that to him, or anyone here, so as not to undermine this mission. However, I attempted to allay his fears.

I walked up to the table and reached over to touch his hand.

"Sir Shad… my dearest Shad, I appreciate your concern for me more than you will ever know. I understand your misgivings. I understand your reservations. But, I have to do this. I have to make things right for the sake of Hyrule and Dragon Roost. What kind of woman would I be if I did not see this through? Surely not the woman you have grown to respect." Shad looked down at the table, but I surprised him by reaching over and raising his chin to meet my gaze. "Thank you for your loyalty. Thank you for caring about me as your queen, but you must let me see this through."

The scholar stared into my eyes and took in a deep sigh.

"My lady…"

I tried to reassure him with a smile.

"Please trust me," I whispered.

Shad stared into my eyes.

"I guess I have no choice."

Link then walked up to the table.

"I won't let anything happen to the queen. I share your concerns, but once this woman's mind is made up, there is no changing it. It's quite impossible really."

Shad glanced over at the hero.

"I am certainly aware of that."

The hero and the scholar chuckled for a moment. Afterwards, Constance walked over to me.

"I want to thank you for always seeing the best in Elbourne even though it wasn't, and isn't, always easy to do so," the dragon queen said. "I understand that he can be difficult, but he has never wavered in his love and loyalty to you. Please remember that when you search for him."

I heard the undercurrent of pleading there. She was trying to convey what was already known to a few of us here. I wanted her to know her unspoken candor was understood.

"I know that my lady," I whispered. "I've always known that."

Hylia went to encourage her as well.

"I have known that too."

Constance looked the goddess's way and bowed again. She was still in awe.

"Thank you your excellency." The dragon queen then thought it appropriate to change the subject. "I know none of you mentioned it out right, but I must ask. Do any of you know the current whereabouts of King Xavier? I know you informed me he was in the Twilight Realm, but he has not returned to Dragon Roost as of yet. Is he still in the Twilight Realm? My people are growing anxious from his long departure."

It was an important set of questions. I immediately turned to the goddess and Midna. They were the last ones to see Xavier in the Twilight Realm.

"Perhaps her excellency and her majesty can be of some help to you," I directed.

Constance shifted her gaze and Midna spoke up first.

"King Xavier left the Twilight Realm shortly after Master Link, Prince Elbourne, and the goddess went to go find Queen Zelda. He said he needed to get back to his people."

Constance looked worried.

"It is as I've said before, I haven't seen or heard from him in weeks. He has not returned to Dragon Roost. I didn't send out a search party for him yet because I had no reason to believe anything happened to him."

This was not good. It looked like the search for one royal was going to turn into two. I then made a minute decision.

"We will search for the dragon king as well."

However, I was met with an objection from one of my officers.

"My lady you need to focus your search on the dragon prince," Maximillion uttered. "I, with a few of my men, will search for the dragon king."

I glanced over at the general.

"Is that wise? You already have to prep for the siege."

Maximillion thought nothing of it.

"The siege preparation will be fine. We have to find his majesty so that Dragon Roost can be put at ease."

Midna chimed in as well.

"I will go with the general to search for the king. I too want to make sure his majesty is safe."

Maximillion looked over at the twilight queen, but said nothing. It was apparent he did not want her to assist him. Even so, the prudent course at this time was cooperation.

To that end, Constance was hesitant at Midna's words.

"Do you think it's wise for you to get so involved in Hylian affairs? I only say that because you too are a queen. If you become hurt in this realm, your people will retaliate."

The twilight queen understood the discretion.

"I understand your concerns, but King Xavier was in my realm before he disappeared. It would soothe my soul to make sure nothing happened to him. That would only happen if I saw him with my own eyes."

The dragon queen looked fretful, but nodded at Midna.

"Then please allow me to have a few of my men accompany you. The king's brother, Rowen, is an excellent tactician and strategist. He will be of great help to you. Besides me, he knows his brother like no one else."

Maximillion looked at Constance impressed.

"Prince Rowen the Cleaver will be accompanying us? Then it will be an honor indeed. That is one of the bravest men I know. He has such valor."

Constance grinned.

"It will warm his heart that such words are coming from a man like you." The dragon queen then looked my way once more. "Your majesty, permit me to let you use my saurian Lightning on your search for the dragon prince. She is swift and will make hours of what would normally be a days of journeying."

I looked at Constance surprised.

"My lady… then how will you get home? I couldn't possibly ride your dragon."

Hylia raised a brow and interjected.

"You will give her a horse and carriage of course. It seems my daughter has lost a bit of her hospitality."

In a rare moment of embarrassment, I blushed. Hylia did have a point.

"Forgive me," I started, not knowing what to say. "That was not my intention."

Hylia snickered.

"I know, I was just joking with you."

Constance smiled along with the goddess.

"It seems to me you are more than what meets the eye your excellency," she said of Hylia, then directed her attention back to me. "And my dear, I took no offense whatsoever."

I was aware of that now, but showed her I appreciated her considerateness anyway.

"Thank you my lady," I confirmed.

Afterwards, I turned to Link and grabbed his hand. It was an abrupt gesture that surprised him. He looked into my eyes perplexed for a moment.

"My queen?" he asked. "Is something wrong?"

I stared back.

"Nothing at all," I whispered. I then turned to everyone else to make an announcement. "I have some important news to let all of you know before we make a formal proclamation," I started. "The hero and I are going to be married when this is all over. He has asked for my hand and I have accepted. We are in love."

A few in the room were shocked, even Link, while others like Hylia and Midna were not.

The hero grinned.

"My lady..."

One of the generals spoke up.

"You're going to be married?" Zelvious asked. "I might be bold in saying this, but it's about time."

A few laughed.

"I have to agree with my friend here," Gunter added. "I was worried about you being unwed for so long."

"It couldn't have been a more honorable man asking for your hand," Maximillion stated. "Congratulations."

The dragon queen nodded.

"I agree, I am happy for you both. Congratulations."

Link smiled and nodded.

"Thank you my lady. I'm just glad she said yes."

There was more light laughter. The only other person who didn't know and said nothing was Shad, but his expression said it all. His astonishment was apparent. He avoided looking at the two of us. I didn't bother pressing the matter. I understood how he felt.

I'm sorry…

Even so, with all the important matters concluded, it was time to organize and get things done. Hylia, Link, and I were heading to the Arbiter's Grounds to find Elbourne. Midna, Maximillion, and a contingent of his men were going to look for King Xavier. And Shad, Gunter, and Zelvious would stay behind getting the preparations together for the siege. With everything accounted for, I thought it was an appropriate point to end the meeting.

"Then the matter is concluded," I said with finality. "Is there anything else we need to discuss?" I was met with silence and shaking heads. "Very well, we will depart tomorrow. Until we leave, please make sure Master Link, Queen Midna and Queen Conastance have proper lodging. The Goddess of Hyrule will stay with me."

Constance then spoke up.

"Accommodating me won't be necessary if I can get escorted back to Dragon Roost tonight."

Link spoke afterward.

"If it pleases you, I can ride back with you on Lightning and bring Lightning back here once you are safely away. That way, you can let the citizens and Prince Rowen know about our borrowing the illumisaurian for the prince's search."

The dragon queen approved of the idea.

"That would be wonderful. Thank you Master Link."

The plans were then settled. I turned to my steward.

"I would like to have that decree written within the hour Sir Shad."

Shad was still avoiding my eyes.

"I will make sure it's done."

I hesitated in that moment, because I felt for him. I really did. I knew he loved me, and I knew hearing Link's and my engagement hurt him. However, it was best he learned of it now so he wouldn't have any hopeful ideas. He could now move on with his life. There were greater problems plaguing us. Matters of the heart could wait.

"Thank you," I said softly anyway.

The scholar finally looked me in the eyes. All he did was nod, and with that, I dismissed everyone.

"This meeting is officially adjourned," I announced. "Let's get prepared for tomorrow."

---

Thank you for reading.