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CHAPTER THREE: THE RESCUE
By the time Link got back to the Castle, the earliest sunbeams were starting to appear through the clouds. After dismounting and dashing into the throne room, Link found the King, sitting on his throne, looking as if he'd aged fifty years. The Knights all looked similarly glum. "Sire...what happened?" Link asked.
Looking up, the King said, "Oh, Link, I was a fool to listen to that man; I should have been more careful; I should have made sure Zelda was safe..."
"Sire, what do you mean?" Link asked. Then, he noticed something. "Sire...where's Zelda?"
"He took her." the King replied.
"Who?" Link asked, though part of him already knew.
"I think we both know who." the King said.
"Very good, Andreus."
The booming voice echoed through the room, and Link turned around, and beheld a large floating eye – the eye he'd seen on the Moblins' armor – shimmering in the air. It was an apparition, for communicating over vast distances.
"Vaati." Link snarled.
"Yes, boy; I am Vaati." the eye echoed. To the King, it added, "You should have heeded my demands the first time, Andreus. Now I already have one thing I require."
The mention of his daughter re-kindled the King's fighting-spirit. "Vile abomination! Return my daughter at once!"
"You aren't giving orders, here, 'Sire'." Vaati mocked. "If you wish your daughter returned, my remaining demands still stand. I want your throne, and I want your 'Defender' disarmed and turned over to me."
"But...why?" the King asked, trying reason instead of rage.
Vaati chuckled. "My desire for the throne hasn't changed after all these years." he hissed. His monstrous gaze then shifted to Link. "And as for the whelp, he's interfered in my plans, and has to pay for it." His eye went back to the King. "You have until the week's end to comply. Fail to do so...and your daughter will pay for your hesitation." Then, the eye vanished.
The King sat back in his throne, motionless, lost in despair. "What am I to do?' he asked aloud, his voice broken.
Just then, Lord Ruthlage, Caspian, and a handful of other nobles came in. "I think, Sire, that it's perfectly obvious." Ruthlage said. "While I wouldn't recommend abdicating your throne, perhaps agreeing to his other demand will convince the sorcerer to drop his first one."
"Lord Ruthlage," the King said, controlling his anger, "are you suggesting that we hand over our own Defender, perhaps the only defense against Vaati's evil?"
"Some defense!" Caspian sneered at Link. "I say we disarm him, hand him over, and be done with it!"
"And I suppose you'd like that, wouldn't you, pup!" Sir Cortez roared, coming to his friend's aid. "You'd just love to see Link out of your way, wouldn't you?!"
"I don't appreciate your tone, you old windbag!" Caspian snapped.
"And I don't appreciate snot-nosed little cowards!" Cortez roared. "We didn't see you or your high-and-mighty sort in defense of our King or the Princess, last night! No, you turned tail at the first hint of danger, you spineless little rodent! Link here risked his life to protect the Royal Family! He is a true Defender of Hyrule!"
"Enough!" the King roared. "All of you, enough! This isn't helping my daughter's situation!"
Link had opted to stay silent until then. "Sire," he began, "please, let me go rescue the Princess."
The King looked incredulous at that. "Link, Vaati's lair, wherever it is, will likely be armed to repel an army..."
"...which is what Vaati is expecting." Link finished. "He wouldn't expect one man. I can sneak in, rescue Zelda, and get out with her before Vaati even knows what's going on!"
"Sire, you can't be serious!" Caspian protested. "You're risking the Princess' one chance on...on him?!"
"Yes," the King replied, hope finally returning to his eyes, "and they're the best odds I've heard today." To Link, he added, "Link, son, my daughter is the only family I have left. Bring her home."
Link smiled. "Sire, I won't let you down!" he promised. With that, he hurried out of the throne room.
Within the hour, Link had mounted Epona and rode out into Hyrule Field...and then realized that he had no idea where Vaati's lair was. Dismounting near a tree, Link said, "Oh, Navi, I don't even know where to start looking!"
The tiny pixie darted out of Link's cap. "I wish I could be of more help, Link," she said sadly, "but no-one can remember where the Palace of Storms, Vaati's old hideout lies."
Link sighed, leaning up against the tree, wondering what to do...
'Thank you!'
Link jumped back, startled. "Who said that?" he called.
'I did! Thank you!'
Link then realized that this was the tree he'd used his magic to heal, the other day. "Did...you say that?" he asked the tree.
'Yes!'
"Of course! I completely forgot!" Navi exclaimed. "Trees have their own root-network! They can talk to each other, and to anyone who listens! Link, that tree may know where the Palace of Storms is!"
'The Palace of Storms?' the tree asked. 'It's about a half-day's journey west of here. If you're going there, be careful.'
"I will, and thank you!" Link replied, as he mounted Epona, Navi darting back in his cap, and rode off.
By the time Link reached the massive Palace of Storms, night had fallen, making the dark citadel seem even more ominous, its massive central spire reaching up to claw at the sky. Its outer courtyard was surrounded by a wall with four searchlights, each operated by an impish Groblin, a cousin-race to the Moblins. The central building had two levels, as well as a spiraling path leading up alongside the tower.
Link dismounted Epona on a hill overlooking the Palace, kneeling low to avoid being seen as he planned his infiltration, Navi darting out to observe. "Link, look!" she squeaked. Looking down, Link saw a wagon at the outer gate of the Palace, loaded with empty wooden barrels – from what Link could figure, the Moblin driver was coming back from an unsuccessful re-supply mission, to store the empty barrels. "We can use those to sneak in!" Navi added.
Quickly, Link made his way down the hill, keeping low, out of sight. When the Moblin wasn't looking, Link hopped onto the wagon, staying low, and then popped the top off of one barrel, before flipping it over onto himself, hiding inside it. Lightly lifting up the top cover, Link peeked out; the Moblin hadn't noticed a thing, as he drove the cart through the open gates.
Once the Moblin parked the cart, he walked away, his stomach growling, allowing Link, still in his barrel-disguise, to hop off, unnoticed. "To get to the main complex, we'll have to go past those searchlights." Navi whispered. "If you keep still as the beams pass, they'll think you're just a regular barrel!" Slowly but surely, Link waddled towards the central complex in his barrel-disguise, the top open a bit to keep a lookout. When a searchlight drew near, Link froze in place, and the light passed by; to them, he was nothing more than a regular barrel.
After fooling two more searchlight scans, Link reached the door to the main complex. He flipped the barrel off him, putting it down silently, and headed in. Inside, Link saw a large treasure chest. Quickly, he opened it, and found a very long rope, with a claw-like hook at its end. "Wow, that's a nice Grapple Hook!" Navi exclaimed. "With that, if you can catch it on something, you can swing across gaps, trigger certain switches, or climb straight up to get the drop on some enemies! If you snag an enemy with it, you can use your magic on the rope and attack with it!"
Just then, they heard voices approaching. Link thought fast; looking up at the rafters, he threw the Grapple Hook upwards. It caught on the boards, and Link pulled himself up, out of sight, taking the rope in after him as he did.
Looking down, he saw two Moblins pass by. "Didja hear?" one said to the other. "Lord Vaati's got the pretty little Princess locked up in the main tower!"
"Wonder what he's gonna do with her." the other wondered aloud. "I mean, he never lets anyone even go near the tower." Then, the two just walked on.
"So, Zelda's in the tower." Link noted. "And the tower is on the second floor..."
"Look, Link!" Navi squeaked, as she flew to a door to his left, only visible at his current height. "I bet this door leads to the second level!" Nodding, Link payed out some rope, and then leaned back, then forward, building up momentum for a swing. When he was moving fast enough, as he drew near the door, he flicked the rope, and released the hook, momentum carrying him to the door. He then opened it and walked through.
Navi's advice had been masterful, for the door led right to the spiral path going up to the tower. Link began to head up the path, the searchlights unable to see him, until he came to a gap. Seeing a pole extended from the wall above the gap, Link tossed out the Grapple Hook and swung across, putting the Hook away as he landed. Continuing on, he came to a large door. He pushed it open, and entered the tower.
The room beyond was utterly dark, lit only by candles forming a branching path. One path led to a door like the one he'd just used. The other led to a door made of blue-and-black stone, with depictions of wind-storms on it, with a single keyhole. Walking to this door, Link looked it over. "This door has been enchanted, Link." Navi observed. "Only the proper key will open it." Turning, Link headed to the other door, opened it, and headed through.
The next room was much better-lit. There was a wooden, spiraling walkway constructed along the inside of the tower walls, leading up to the top, where there was no ceiling. The floor had an arcane pattern carved into it, likely in preparation for some unholy ritual. In the corner was a prison cell, made of the same blue-black stone as the other door...and there, within it, was Zelda, still in her shimmery violet gown, lying on the cold stone floor, asleep, her delicate head resting on her hands, her wrists bound together by a set of wrist-manacles linked to a long chain that was attached to the wall; the chain and manacles were both composed of that blue-black stone.
When Link began to slowly approach, Zelda stirred from her slumber. Her eyes were wide as she sat up to see who it was...and she smiled joyfully as she saw who it was. "Link!" she cried, rushing to the bars of her prison. "You're...you're here!"
"Zelda, are you okay?" Link asked, rushing to her, stopping at the bars. Their faces were only inches apart, now. "Did those...fiends hurt you?"
"No. I've been here ever since I got here. No-one's come until now." she replied. Her voice turned sad. "I've...I've been so lonely..."
"Hush, now, darling. I'm here." Link replied. Reaching through the bars, he took Zelda's hands in his own, bringing them up to his face, and then kissing them lovingly.
Zelda smiled, lacing her fingers in his. "Link...I knew you'd come. I knew it." she cooed.
"Of course I came! I love you, Zel, and I promised you that I wouldn't let Vaati so much as touch you, and I intend to keep that promise." Releasing his beloved's hands, Link moved to the locked cell door, drawing the Master Sword. "Zelda, stand back!" he instructed, and Zelda did so. Link pulled the blade over his head, and brought it down on the lock, to slice it apart...
CLANG!
The Master Sword's blade clanged uselessly off of the lock, the lock undamaged. "That isn't going to work, Link." Navi said. "This cell – and those manacles – are powered by a high-level binding spell; not even the Master Sword can break it. Only the proper counter-spell – in our case, the proper key – will unlock them. Vaati likely didn't want anyone freeing Zelda."
"Oh, Link..." Zelda said, stricken, "...you came all this way, put yourself in such danger..."
"A minor setback." Link said. He held Zelda's hands once more, looking into her saddened sapphire gems. "I'll get you out of this, Zel, I promise. I just have to find that key."
"Uh...Link?" Navi squeaked. "I think I found it."
Turning, Link was in time to leap out of the path of an immense, black-feathered bird, with razor-sharp talons, a wingspan the diameter of the room, and a large metal mask, covering its head, save for its razor-beak.
Around its neck was a blue-and-black key.
"Link, that's an Emperor Helmaroc! It's one of the deadliest birds of prey in existence!" Navi cried. "You can't fight it in here! You'll have to lure it to the top of the tower!"
"Okay!" Link agreed. To Zelda, he said, "Just hang on, Zelda! I'll have you free in a second!"
"Oh, please, Link, be careful!" Zelda called, as Link began to dash up the spiral walkway.
The Helmaroc flapped its wings, keeping level with Link as he dashed up the path. "RRRAAAWWWKKK!" it squawked, before diving at him, trying to rake him with its talons. Link rolled out of its way, and then used the Grapple Hook to swing over a gap in the walkway. After dodging several more dives, Link was about to come onto the roof of the tower, when the Helmaroc flew up and perched in his path, its beak ready to snap at him. Link knew the Master Sword couldn't smash that mask, so he used the next best thing; he unholstered the Megaton Hammer, pulled back, and smashed the bird's masked face, causing a tiny crack to appear in its mask. The Helmaroc squawked in pain, and flew off. Link then hopped out onto the rim of the tower. Seeing a lever-switch on a high pole, Link tossed the Grapple Hook at it, and pulled, spinning the lever, and closing the roof, creating a battle-field on the tower.
Just then, Link heard the Emperor Helmaroc's enraged squawk, as the massive bird of prey circled overhead, ready to attack. "Okay!" Navi squeaked, darting out. "Link, the Helmaroc's body-plumage is too thick to get through with the Master Sword, so you'll have to go for the head! Rope it with your Grapple Hook, shock it with some magic, pull it down, and break its mask with your Hammer! Then you can hurt it!"
The Helmaroc dove at Link, to catch him in its talons, but Link leapt aside. Drawing the Grapple Hook, Link spun it for a throw, and let it fly, catching it on the chain that held the key around the massive fowl's neck, and then sending a blast of magic energy surging through the rope, shocking the startled Helmaroc. With one mighty tug, Link pulled the Helmaroc down, released the Hook's grip, drew the Hammer, and with one leaping smash, he shattered the mask, revealing the red-eyed, rooster-like face of the Helmaroc.
Squawking in fury, the Helmaroc flew off, then flew low, creating a powerful gale in its path, trying to blow Link right off the tower. Link held fast, and when the Helmaroc tried again, he threw his Grapple Hook, lassoing the surprised bird, then stunned it and pulled it down. Drawing the Master Sword, Link unleashed a vertical slash, a cross-body horizontal cut, and a backspin strike on its head. The Helmaroc got up, enraged, then flapped its wings to hover, before trying to crush Link with its talons. When Link tried to use the Hook again, the Helmaroc batted it away with its wings. The bird then reared back, to peck at Link, and then dove at him. Link leapt aside...and the Helmaroc missed him, getting its beak stuck in the stone floor. The Helmaroc squawked frantically, trying to free its beak. Link drew his Sword, and, in one leaping attack, struck the final blow. Breaking free, the Emperor Helmaroc squawked in agony, taking a few wing-flaps, rising slightly, before disintegrating into feathers and black smoke. The key dropped down before Link, the chain gone. Link took the key, used his Hook to re-set the switch and open the roof, and then headed back down, to free Zelda.
When he got back to Zelda's prison, Zelda smiled radiantly as she saw him. "Link! You're alright!" she exclaimed.
"Better than alright!" Link declared, smiling and holding out the key. "Hold on, Zel. Now I'll have you free in a second!" Inserting the key in the cell door's lock, Link turned it. Instead of opening, the bars of the cell simply dissolved, leaving Zelda and her chains behind. Moving to Zelda's side, Link gently unlocked her shackles. The shackles popped open, freeing Zelda's delicate wrists, before vanishing.
Zelda smiled happily, before leaping into her lover's waiting arms. "My hero." she cooed, cuddling into Link's embrace.
"It's all okay now, Zelda." Link whispered to her, holding her close. "You're safe, now."
Zelda nuzzled closer to her lover. "If only that were true." she murmured. "My family isn't safe; Vaati will never leave us alone."
Then, Link remembered that the key he'd won might also unlock another door, and he was willing to bet his cap that the blue-black door he'd seen before was where Vaati was lurking. "Oh, yes he will, Zelda. I'll make sure he will." Link promised. "I know where he is, and I'll teach him a lesson he'll never forget!"
"Link, no!" Zelda cried, burying her head in his chest. "Please, don't! Vaati is too powerful, Link! I...I couldn't stand it if I lost you..."
Gently, Link lifted Zelda's chin, to meet her gaze. "Zelda...do you trust me?" he asked.
Zelda nodded. "With my life."
"Then let me do this, Zel. It's going to happen, sooner or later. I can beat him now, so you don't have to be scared, any more. I can beat him."
Zelda smiled. "Okay, Link. I believe in you." she said. "But please...be careful."
"I will." Link promised. Then, he took her hand, and led her out of the room. Coming to the magically locked door, Link used the key on its lock. The key then dissolved, as the door opened, letting them pass through.
The room beyond was large and empty. Nothing and no-one was there. Link kept loose, ready for anything, as Zelda drew close to him, still fearful that the monster that had stalked her nightmares for her entire childhood might leap out at her at any second.
Suddenly, a voice snapped out at them. "You were foolish to come here, boy."
"You're the one who wanted my head, Vaati!" Link snarled back. "Why don't you try to get it yourself, rather than kidnap an innocent woman and send your cronies to do it for you, you coward!"
"As you wish." Suddenly, a shadowy form began to materialize and take shape. When it had finished, Link and Zelda now beheld a hideous creature.
Its body was a large, blue-black, rounded bulk, with five outgrowths on it, exactly where its feet, hands, and head should have been. The first four looked like twisted and misshapen hands and feet. The fifth...the fifth was a human head, its face frozen in a terrified scream, frozen when the spell he'd cast had backfired. In the center of its body was a large, single, slitted red eye. This entity was a true nightmare-creature.
Vaati.
"Your insolence knows no bounds, boy." Vaati hissed. "And what are you doing out of your cell, Princess? I'll just have to put you back!" Vaati then began to float towards the terrified Zelda.
When Vaati was in range, Link drew his Sword and Shield, and slashed Vaati across the torso, driving the beast back. "I will not let you hurt her!" Link declared.
"So! You do possess the Master Sword!" Vaati snarled. "I'll have my vengeance for everything you've done!"
"What! What are you talking about!" Link demanded.
"You slew Ganondorf, the King of Evil." Vaati hissed. "Did it ever occur to you that there were those who had a vested interest in his rule!"
"When he stole the Triforce...Ganondorf set you free." Link deduced. "And now you're sore about losing your master, losing the one to aid your plans. Without him, you're now nothing."
"You and the Royal Family have meddled in my affairs for the last time!" Vaati snarled. "Now...you'll pay!" Then, Vaati took to the air.
"Zelda, stay back. I'll handle him." Link instructed. Zelda did so, giving Link his space.
Vaati hovered over Link, generating a mighty tornado around himself, trying to suck Link into it. Link drew his Bow and fitted a Light Arrow to it, then let it fly...only to have it blown aside by the twisting gale. "Navi! How do I defeat this guy?" Link called.
Navi darted out of Link's cap. "Sorry, Link, but I don't know anything about him!" she cried. "You'll have to figure it out on your own!"
Leaping out of the twister's path, Link got an idea. Taking out one of his blue, spherical Bombs, he lit it and tossed it into the tornado's path. The twister sucked it up, pulling it up to Vaati's level...where it detonated, knocking him down to the ground. Link dashed over and unleashed a flurry of sword-strikes on Vaati. Floating back up, Vaati began using the darker aspect of his magic; he generated numerous shadowy razor-tendrils, casting them at Link. Link leapt aside and fired another Light Arrow, this time striking Vaati and making him drop, where Link unleashed another slashing salvo.
As Vaati rose again, Link was confused. Any other evil creature would have been destroyed by that amount of damage dealt by the Master Sword...but Vaati continued on, as if unhurt, and his wounds were regenerating...
Vaati spoke: "You begin to bore me, whelp! We shall conclude this another time!" Then, he vanished.
As Link sheathed his weapons, Navi did a little victory-flight around his head. "You did it, Link!" she squeaked. "You drove off the infamous Vaati!"
Zelda walked over to Link, smiling happily. "Oh, thank you, Link." she cooed. "You saved me."
Smiling back, Link took her hand and kissed it. "Any time, sweetheart." he replied, earning a happy blush from her. "Now, let's get out of here!" Then, Link led Zelda out of Vaati's chamber.
As they came out of the tower, Link spotted a pole he could snag with the Grapple Hook to swing to the outer wall of the Palace. Throwing the Hook and securing it, Link held Zelda close to him. "Hold on." he instructed. Zelda nodded, wreathing her arms around his neck, as Link leapt off, swinging them over to the outer wall. Releasing the Hook's grip, Link and Zelda landed safely on the wall, before Link threw the Hook again, snagging a tree branch, and swinging them outside the Palace walls. Putting the Hook away, Link gave a tiny whistle, calling Epona over. The fine mare whinnied quietly, trotting over to them. Link hopped on first, then extended his hand to Zelda, helping her up in front of him, letting her lean back against his chest, as he held the reins, his arms partially around her waist. Gently, Link spurred Epona on, and the horse began to slowly gallop away, so as not to attract attention, heading for Hyrule Castle.
As they rode, Link became aware of a wonderfully warm weight pressing against his chest; Zelda had fallen asleep, her head leaning back against him. "Link..." he heard her sigh happily, her ruby lips curving up in the secret smile of her dreams.
Link smiled to himself. So, she even dreamed of him. He felt Zelda nuzzle closer to him, allowing him to catch the wonderful fragrance she used in her hair: a sweet, subtle, feminine blend of lilacs and vanilla, with the tiniest hint of cinnamon mixed in. Gently, Link's arms held Zelda closer to him, in a more protective fashion.
He would never, ever let anything happen to her.
Morning had come to Hyrule Castle, and Andreus hadn't slept a wink. Worry for his daughter's well-being had kept him up. Some of his most trusted Knights had kept watch in the throne room, including Sir Cortez, as well as the six Sages of Hyrule; once they'd heard of Vaati's attack, they'd come at once.
There was Rauru, the leader of the six, the Hylian Sage of Light. Rauru was a bit taller than Andreus, with the same build. He had short, white hair, and a white moustache, clad in golden robes, with ageless wisdom gleaming from his piercing blue eyes. Physically, he appeared to be the same age as Andreus, but he had been the leader of the original Sages of Hyrule – no-one knew how old he really was.
Sitting at the window-sill, looking out at the path to the Castle, was the Kokiri Sage of Forest, Saria. Saria seemed to be a young lass of 10, short and slender, with short, emerald-green hair, and green eyes, clad in a long-sleeved green sweater and matching green shorts. Around her head circled a winged ball of pink light – her guardian fairy, Andreus understood. Apparently, Saria was Link's best friend, ever since childhood. That would make her at least Link's age, yet she still seemed child-like. It must have been the magic of the Kokiri Forest, long fused in her blood, that did that. Sometimes, Andreus forgot what a land of wonder his kingdom was.
A few feet from the throne stood Darunia, the leader of the Goron people, and the Sage of Fire. Like his people, Darunia had a rounded body, but his frame was more muscular, as were his arms and legs, and he had white dreadlocks, and clear brown eyes. Andreus was Darunia's "Sworn Brother", as was Link; when he'd heard that both of his Sworn Brothers were in trouble, Darunia had made for Hyrule Castle as fast as he could.
A few more feet away was Ruto, Princess of the aquatic Zora people, and Sage of Water. Ruto's skin, like that of her people, was a very light blue, and as smooth as a Goron's skin was rough. Her feet were webbed, and on her forearms were shimmery fins. She looked worried; apparently, Ruto had been infatuated with Link, Andreus had heard, but once she'd learned of Link's feelings for Zelda, she'd stepped aside.
The only Sage that Andreus really knew was Impa, who stood in the shadowed corners, in her element. Impa had long served as Zelda's loyal nursemaid and attendant, which she'd faithfully resumed when she wasn't needed as Sage of Shadow in the past month. Impa was a Sheikah, a race nearly identical in appearance to the Hylians. Impa was tall and lean, even taller than Link was, her eyes a clear silver, as was her long hair, tied in a bun at the base of her neck. She wore deep blue leather armor, with a short, curved ninja-sword strapped to her back. Apparently, Impa had once instructed Link in some of the Sheikan shadow-arts, including infiltration, for which Andreus was deeply grateful.
Off to the side, leaning against a wall, was Nabooru, new leader of the Gerudo people, and Sage of Spirit. Like her people, Nabooru's skin was a deep tawny, her eyes a deep brown, and her hair, tied in a long ponytail, a flaming red. She wore a simple gold-orange cloak, covering her completely. Nabooru had made it clear that she had never supported Ganondorf, who had ruled the Gerudo before. What was most fascinating about the Gerudo was that, unlike the Hylians, the Gerudo's ears were short – half the size of a Hylian's ear – and completely rounded. The first time he'd seen a Gerudo – Ganondorf, to be exact – Andreus had tried very hard not to stare.
At that moment, Lord Ruthlage and his son, Caspian, walked in, clad in their usual finery. Inwardly, Andreus groaned. He didn't need this, especially not now.
"Sire," Ruthlage began, "it has been a day since we last heard from that...from Link. Are you sure your choice was wise?"
"More sure than I have been of anything in my life." Andreus said firmly; if anyone could rescue his daughter, Link could.
"With all due respect, Sire, I think you put far too much faith in him." Caspian said.
At that, every Sage perked up. Rauru fixed Caspian with a stern glare. Darunia's eyes narrowed angrily. Ruto looked very cross. Nabooru looked ready to trounce Caspian. Impa's silver stare from the shadows could have easily made Andreus' hair stand on end, had it been aimed at him.
None of them had appreciated that remark.
The only one who hadn't moved was Saria, her gaze still fixed on the window...and as she spoke, Andreus understood why: "I wouldn't say that if I were you," she said, "because Link's heading this way! And Zelda's with him!"
"What?" Andreus cried, overjoyed. But, before he could ask again, the doors to the throne room opened from the outside, as Link pushed them open...and there, beside him, was Zelda, unharmed.
By the Great Goddesses themselves, that boy worked fast!
"Daddy!" Zelda cried joyfully, rushing to her father, hugging him.
"Oh, my sweet daughter," Andreus exclaimed, "thank the Three that you're alright!"
Link walked slowly towards them, not wanting to interrupt the family reunion, smiling, glad that he'd helped. Once Link was in view, Andreus said, "Link, son...I owe so much to you!"
Link humbly removed his cap and bowed. "Sire, you owe me nothing." he replied. "It was my honor to do you, and the Princess, this service."
Releasing his daughter from their hug, Andreus inquired, "Were you able to escape without incident?"
"Only one incident, Sire." Link admitted. "I...encountered Vaati."
Andreus gasped. "And...you were uninjured?"
"Yes, Sire, though Vaati could not say the same." Link said, smiling lightly. "Though I did not slay him, I dealt him a sting he'll not soon forget."
Andreus was amazed – Link was far more powerful than he'd realized. He was about to congratulate the young hero...when Caspian reached Link first. "You stupid fool!" the arrogant young noble yelled. "You've started a war!"
"Caspian! SILENCE!" Andreus roared; he'd had enough of this. "We are already at war with Vaati." he added, more calmly. "Link has given us our first victory."
"Sire...I must disagree, respectfully." Ruthlage said. "If Link had simply surrendered to Vaati, the Princess would have been returned and this crisis ended." He glared at Link. "Now, Vaati is incensed by this loss, because of him. Who knows when Vaati will strike next?"
Andreus was about to put Ruthlage in his place...when he noticed Link's expression. Before, the lad had always been patient; now, he appeared to have reached his limit, and it was about time, too...
"Oh, shut up, Fancy Pants."
Link's remark took everyone completely by surprise; it was short, blunt, and to the point – very effective, in Andreus' opinion. Lord Ruthlage's expression was absolutely comical, as his brain tried to process what he'd heard...
Just then, a familiar, unashamed belly-laugh echoed throughout the room. It was Sir Cortez, laughing his head off. "Lad, I couldn't 'ave said it better, myself!" he guffawed.
Then, Zelda began to giggle, trying to politely stifle herself...with little luck. Then, Saria began to laugh, then Darunia, then Ruto, and then the rest of the Sages. Before long, the whole room was laughing, including Andreus.
Only Ruthlage and Caspian were silent. Caspian was indignant, and Ruthlage managed to choke out, "What...did you just say?!"
"Oh, I think you 'eard 'im the first time...Fancy-Pants!" Cortez gasped, before erupting in laughter once again.
"I...have...never...been so...insulted...in my LIFE!" Ruthlage roared, before turning and storming out. Caspian fixed Link with a murderous glare...before following his father.
Once the two nobles had left, Andreus, after stifling his laughter, said, "Well, spoken, Link. I could have thought of no better way to express that sentiment."
"I agree, Sire!" Cortez chuckled. "There are few things more humorous in life than a well-delivered insult!"
Once all the chuckling had died down, Rauru spoke up. "Link," he said, "there are things that we must discuss. Please, accompany us to the Chamber of Sages." Then, with a flash of light, Link and the Sages were gone.
The Chamber of Sages had not changed. It was exactly as Link remembered it: the pool of water, the central Triforce-shaped pedestal, with the six Sage pedestals around it – gold for Rauru, green for Saria, red for Darunia, blue for Ruto, purple for Impa, and orange for Nabooru.
Each Sage now stood on their pedestal, with Link at the center. "I am sure that you have many questions regarding the wind sorcerer, Link." Rauru stated.
Link nodded. "Yes, I do." he agreed. "Was it really the Sages who locked him away?"
The other five Sages looked to Rauru; he was the only survivor of the original Hyrulian Sages, the ones who had sealed Vaati away. "Yes, Link, it is true." Rauru said. "We – the first Sages – arrived just as the King of that time had interrupted Vaati's spell, and his own magic turned on him, transmuting him. He isn't a mortal man, anymore, but a twisted shell, a broken being. That spell, however, gave him great power – as he is now, not even the Master Sword can harm him."
"How can I defeat him?" Link asked.
"You must gather the Essences of Earth, Wind, Fire, and Water. They were what Vaati was trying to draw power from." Rauru replied. "They, ultimately, gave him his power; they can also take it away. The Earth Essence lies in the desert, beyond the Desert Colossus, in the Earth Sanctum in the Dindar Dries. The Wind Sanctum, home of the Wind Essence, lies in the Eastern Highlands. Deep in the Death Mountain Range, you will find the Fire Sanctum, resting place of the Fire Essence. And, on Hyrule's coasts, you will find the Water Sanctum, and claim the Water Essence. Once you hold all four Essences, you can strip Vaati of his power, and slay him, once and for all!"
"Then I shall!" Link declared.
"We Sages shall observe from here." Rauru said. "Hurry, Link! We do not know exactly what Vaati is planning. Find the Essences, and stop Vaati's evil!" Then, Link felt himself being transported out of the Chamber.
Link found himself back in the throne room, exactly where he'd left. "Link, what happened?" Zelda asked, and Link told her, as well as the King.
When he'd finished, the King said, "I see...so, you must leave on another journey, then."
"Yes, Sire." Link confirmed, his voice sad after seeing Zelda's saddened expression.
The King noticed it, too. "Please, Link, I insist: remain in the Castle for the night and leave in the morning. You should rest up before something like this."
"Sire..." Link began, wanting to stay and spend some time with Zelda, but knowing that he couldn't delay, "I think..."
"Make that an order." the King said, smiling.
Link smiled sheepishly. "How can I refuse my King?"
"Good! I'll see to it that a room is prepared for you!" the King said, and then he left. Link then looked into Zelda's eyes, happy that he could spend time with her, his own joy reflected in her eyes...
"Link?"
Turning, Link was surprised to see Saria there, looking worried. "Saria?" Link asked. "Is everything okay?"
Saria lightly smiled, before turning to Zelda. "Your Highness, could I borrow Link for a little while?"
"What's wrong, Sari?" Link asked, using his old nickname for his best friend. "Something's up, I know it..."
Saria's smile became a bit less forced. "Link...there's something I need to show you...something we – the Deku Tree and the Kokiri – should have shown you a long time ago."
Now Link was concerned. He looked to Zelda, who nodded to him, agreeing; whatever Saria wanted to show him, Zelda agreed that he should see it. Link walked over, standing next to Saria, who waved her hand, and in a flash of green light, they were gone.
Saria hated having to do this.
Her teleportation spell deposited herself and Link in the deep green Kokiri Forest, a fair distance from the Kokiri village, at the edges of the meadow of the Great Deku Tree, the guardian spirit of the Forest. The Tree had told her that it was time to tell Link the truth about his origins.
Saria agreed that Link deserved to know...but this would shake him so badly...
"Sari, what's going on?" Link asked. "Why are we here?"
"Link..." Saria began, "...it's time for you to learn about where you come from; where you really come from."
Link looked confused. "What do you mean, Sari?" he asked. "I'm a Hylian...aren't I?"
Seven years ago, Saria would have said that the worst she'd ever felt was when her best friend had left the Forest to find his destiny.
But now, hearing that tone of doubt in her best friend's voice...it was infinitely worse.
"Please, Link...just follow me." Saria said, and she began to walk towards a part of the Forest that the Tree had specifically said never to enter.
Link saw where they were headed. "Whoa, Saria, that's the Forbidden Grove!" Link exclaimed. "The Deku Tree said never to go in there!"
"This time, it's okay, Link." Saria said. "You're going to learn why it was forbidden." Then, Saria led Link into the Forbidden Grove.
The Grove was a wide, fairly empty clearing, surrounded by trees, with a path heading to the center carved into the ground, as if something had crashed there...and there, in the center, was a small, gleaming, purple-metal vessel, with graceful, curved wings, and a small opening, where its passenger would go. It was very small, small enough to only be able to hold...a baby...
"Saria...I don't understand..." Link said.
Saria took a deep breath. "Link...you've heard how babies are sometimes found in baskets, right?" she asked. Link nodded. Saria then gestured to the ship. "Well...you see, Link...this...is how we found you."
Link froze; he didn't move, his mind frozen, as he tried to process this. In that moment, Saria absolutely hated herself for telling him. "But...Navi said I was a Hylian..." Link murmured.
"That's what we all thought..." Saria forced out, "...but we knew that no Hylian could ever use magic; when you started using magic...we knew we were wrong."
"How?" Link asked. "How did it happen?"
Taking a deep breath, Sari reached out and held Link's hand, softly chanting a memory-spell, to let Link see the events that she would now recall...
Saria was walking through the Kokiri Forest, her guardian fairy, Lilia, flying beside her. "Where are we going, Saria?" Lilia asked.
Saria smiled. "We're going to see the Great Deku Tree." she replied. Lilia squeaked in joy, as Saria and her fairy-partner continued on their way.
Before long, Saria and Lilia stood before the Deku Tree, a tall, mighty redwood tree, with bushy eyebrows and a moustache in his trunk. "Ah, Saria and Lilia, how do thee fare?" the Tree asked, in his deep voice.
'We are very well, Great Deku Tree." Saria said. "We hope you are, too."
"Thou art such a sweet child." the Tree said. "My dear, I have a request to make of thee; go to the grove nearby and look after Mido and Fado, there."
"Of course." Saria replied. "Is...something wrong?"
"Something is amiss; I feel it in my roots." the Tree said. "Events that are occurring in far-off places shall be of grave importance to this land..." Then, the Tree shook his branches, clearing his thoughts. "Do not mind me, child. Go, now." Quickly, Saria and Lilia hurried to the grove.
Soon, Saria reached the grove, and found Mido, a Kokiri boy with short red hair, green eyes, clad in a green tunic and shorts, with a green cap, there with Fado, another Kokiri lad, with blond hair and green eyes, clad in similar attire. "Hi, Saria!" Mido called. "We were just exploring, that's all."
"Wow!" Fado exclaimed, pointing up at the sky. "Look at that!"
Looking up, Saria saw what Fado was pointing at: up in the sky, there was a glowing red, burning sphere descending from high in the sky. Saria had heard the Deku Tree call them "shooting stars."
Saria was amazed as well...until she made a horrifying discovery. "It's heading THIS way!" she cried. Quickly, she grabbed Mido and Fado's hands, and ran out of the grove as fast as she could, taking them with her.
They'd escaped not a moment too soon; seconds after, the shooting star struck the grove with a loud CRRAASSHH! The impact sent dust and earth flying everywhere, knocking the three of them down.
Saria was the first to recover, followed by Mido and Fado, who were both in tears. "That was scary!" Mido wailed.
"I thought I was gonna die!" Fado cried.
Slowly, Saria got up, and began to walk back into the grove. "Are you nuts?!" Mido wailed.
"I want to see what happened." Saria said. With that, she headed back into the grove, followed by Mido and Fado.
When Saria reached the grove, she was utterly astounded: there in the center of the grove, was a small, gleaming, purple-metal object, with graceful, curved wings. It was a ship, of some sort.
And there were noises coming from inside it.
"There's something ALIVE in there!" Mido cried.
"It's a MONSTER, I know it!" Fado cried. Suddenly, a panel opened on the tiny ship, allowing them to hear the noises...
"WAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH! WAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!"
Saria was surprised to hear that noise; it didn't sound any different from when a new Kokiri came into being from the Tree's life force. Slowly, Saria walked over, looked in...and found a little baby boy in the ship, clad only in black, one-piece pajamas, a long, golden medallion about his neck, with the crest of a golden merlin-falcon, diving at its prey, its talons ready, a gleaming star behind it. He had light skin, straw-blond hair, and blue eyes.
And he was bawling his eyes out.
Gently, softly cooing to him, Saria picked up the little boy; almost at once, he stopped crying. Gently looking at his pendant, Saria saw the word 'Link' written on it. "So...your name is Link, is it?" she asked, smiling. The instant he heard his name, the little baby burst into giggles. Turning to her friends, Saria said, "We'd better tell the Deku Tree." Quickly, the three Kokiri, with their new friend, hurried to the Deku Tree.
Once they'd reached the Tree, they told him everything. "Indeed..." the Tree mused, "'twas not mere chance that sent this babe here; this is a child of destiny, who shall affect all the world. We shall raise young Link as a Kokiri, until he begins to inquire about his origins. Until then, NO Kokiri shall enter that grove, understood?"
"Understood." the three Kokiri answered.
The Tree chuckled. "So, Navi the fairy, it seems there is a purpose for your coming here, after all."
At that, a little blue ball of winged light darted out. Saria was amazed; most forest-fairies, like Lilia, were pink. "I told you!" the fairy – Navi – squeaked. "Queen Epheremelda sent me here for a reason!"
"Indeed, that must be so." the Tree agreed. "Now, my children, go, and speak of this to no-one. All must believe that Link is a true Kokiri." The three Kokiri nodded, and hurried off, little Link still in Saria's arms.
Saria took a deep breath, as the spell ended. "It's hard to believe you were ever that little..."
Link was silent for a moment, and then, "Navi...you knew, too?"
Navi drooped in her flight. "I'm so sorry, Link." she sniffled. "I didn't know how to tell you..."
Link simply scooped Navi onto his shoulder, in a comforting gesture. "It's okay, Navi." he soothed. Then, he turned to Saria. "So...what...am I?"
Saria could barely hold back her tears. "I don't know..." she sniffled. She ran to her best friend, hugging his legs. "I'm so sorry I didn't tell you..." she sobbed, "...please, don't hate me..."
"'Hate you'?" Link replied. He knelt down and hugged Saria. "Sari, you're my best friend. I could never hate you."
Saria softly smiled. "I wish we'd told you, sooner..."
"I don't think I could have handled it any sooner." Link replied. "You made the right decision." He smiled. "I'm glad you told me, Sari. Now, I just need to figure out who I am."
Saria smiled. "Who you are hasn't changed, Link; you're still the Hero of Time, the greatest, most heroic warrior in the world!"
Link chuckled. "Thanks, Saria."
Then, Saria remembered something. "Oh, I almost forgot!" She reached into her pocket, and took out the medallion she'd found with Link on that day. "I think you should have this." She handed the medallion to him.
Link took it, and laced it around his neck, before looking at its crest, considering it...and then tucking it under his tunic. "Thank you." he said. Saria just smiled, and then teleported them both away, back to Hyrule Castle.
Night had quickly fallen over Hyrule Castle; the skies were clear, and the stars were out. Zelda had always loved watching the stars as a child, and even more so when Link had pointed out all the constellations to her.
Zelda had changed into a blue version of her previous gown, with a silvery shawl wrapped around her shoulders, to keep her warm as she leaned on the balcony, outside, away from the noise inside...
"May I join you, Milady?"
Zelda sighed inwardly in annoyance as Caspian walked out on the balcony. Caspian was part of the noise she was trying to avoid. Still, though she despised him, for her father's sake, she had to be somewhat courteous. "The balcony is free." she replied neutrally.
Out of the corner of her eye, Zelda saw Caspian smile, and suppressed a groan for having encouraged him.
"It's a nice night, isn't it?" Caspian said, idly.
"Yes," Zelda said, before softly adding, "it was."
"Milady, I've been meaning to catch you alone for quite some time." Caspian continued. Zelda felt a chill run down her spine at those words. Sensing her discomfort, Caspian added, "To talk."
Her worries somewhat eased, Zelda asked, "About what?"
Caspian smiled, and, in a move he surely thought was suave, took both of her hands in his. "Us." he said.
Suppressing her disgust, Zelda removed her hands from Caspian's. "Caspian, there is no 'us'." she said firmly. "And if that is all you wish to say, then I suggest you remove yourself from my presence."
Frowning, Caspian folded his arms. "Princess Zelda, we've both been skirting around this issue for far too long." he said flatly. "I suggest that we finally set things straight."
"I couldn't agree more!" Zelda declared angrily. "Caspian, I suggest you listen well, for I will only say this once: I'm with Link, and nothing will change that!"
Caspian just rolled his eyes. "Princess, stop the nonsense." he said. "Why not stop your silly little games with that peasant and agree to a union with someone more...befitting of one such as yourself."
Zelda's eyes narrowed. "Like you!" she snapped.
"Why not?" Caspian said smugly. "My family is the noblest in Hyrule, next to yours, of course. You could do much worse than myself."
"I could also do much better." Zelda retorted. "Now leave."
Caspian's eyes narrowed. "My Lady, surely there isn't going to be a repeat of your father and the late Queen, is there?" Zelda froze at that remark. "I would save you that scandal. Think about it." With that, he left.
Now Zelda was alone with her thoughts. She'd never known her mother, Queen Alara – she'd died giving birth to her. When her parents had been married, Alara's lineage had never been made public, though her father had assured everyone that Alara's lineage was royal. Because of that, there had been rumors of how Alara was not of royal or noble blood. All her life, Zelda had wanted to know who her mother really was, what kind of person she'd been in life...but she would never know. And that, at times, made her so terribly insecure, and Caspian's words had hit her so hard. She tried to keep calm, but she just couldn't keep her silent tears from falling.
"Zelda?"
Zelda didn't turn at Link's call – she didn't want him to see her tears, didn't want to be so embarrassed in front of her true love, the man who meant everything to her.
"Zel, what's wrong?" Link asked. "Why won't you talk to me?" He walked over, and gently placed his hand on her shoulder. Zelda had always been amazed at how gentle Link's touch was, how wonderful he always made her feel. Turning slightly, she let her teary gaze meet his.
Link's expression instantly filled with loving concern, making it even harder for Zelda to stop her tears. "Zelda, what's wrong?" he asked softly.
"Caspian." she sniffled. "He...he tried to convince me...to accept his marriage proposal. When I refused...he...he mentioned how I shouldn't be repeating what happened with my parents."
Link's confused look at her last statement bade her to explain further. "My mother, Queen Alara, kept her lineage private – no-one knew who she was. There were always...rumors about..." She couldn't finish. "My mother died at birth, Link. I never knew her at all."
"And that little...that Caspian practically threw dirt on her name." Link growled. Zelda could see the anger in his eyes, directed at Caspian. "I should have trounced that little windbag the minute I got back."
Zelda managed to laugh lightly. "That wouldn't have changed anything." she sniffled. "There's...always been a part of my life missing, Link. I've always felt..."
"You felt like something was missing."
Link's words stopped Zelda's tears. "Excuse me?" she asked.
"All your life, you felt like something was missing, several chapters left out of your story." Link said firmly, like he knew far too much of what he was talking about. "You wondered why it was missing, and what it was, what it meant about you, whether it meant you were a good person or a bad person." His expression became terribly sad. "Zelda...today I found out something." He leaned in close to her, and whispered the story in her ear, only for her.
Zelda was utterly amazed.
"Zelda, I've always wondered who my parents were, now more than ever." Link said, after he'd finished. "All I know was that I landed in Kokiri Forest, all alone. Did my parents send me there for a reason? Did they die sending me here? Or...did they just...not want me?" His gaze met hers. "I know what it means to wonder about yourself, Zel. I know how you feel."
Could it be true? Even with all those wonderful things about Link, could he truly know what it was like? And then, Zelda knew that it was true. For most of his life, Link had assumed he was a Kokiri, then thought he was a Hylian, and now, that might not be true. That discovery had roused many questions in him, which not even the wise Deku Tree could answer. At least Zelda had her father, the knowledge and presence of one parent. But Link...
...Link was a complete enigma to himself.
"But you know what, Zel?" Link asked. "It doesn't matter who your mother was, really." Holding her hands, he added, "What matters is who you are." He smiled. "And you, Zelda, are the kindest, sweetest, most loving, most beautiful, most wonderful woman I've ever known. Your mother would be very proud of you."
What soothing magic those simple words could carry! Zelda nuzzled into her beloved, letting him embrace her. "Oh, Link...you have no idea how much I needed that." she whispered. "I love you so much."
"And I love you, Zelda. Don't ever forget that." Link said. "And if that tarted-up little weasel ever harasses you again, I'll personally boot his scrawny rear-end into orbit."
Zelda laughed at that. "My hero." she cooed. Then, she met his eyes; oh, how easily she could lose herself in that storm-blue gaze of his. Every time she looked in his eyes, her knees weakened, and she felt utterly helpless. Link had always had that power; he always knew exactly how to make her happy.
She couldn't live without him.
Then, Zelda saw Link's eyes soften, and she knew why – she felt her own desires flaring, as well, and their lips met in a passionate kiss. The kiss was so soft, so tender, and yet incredibly powerful, their mouths lovingly devouring each other, their tongues playing their exquisite game.
Slowly, the kiss ended, as their lips parted, their embrace still holding. Zelda had to fight to catch her breath; they'd never shared a kiss that intense, before, and by the look of Link, it had affected him, too.
"Zelda, are you...okay?" Link asked, catching his breath.
"Oh, yes." Zelda cooed, her voice a bit too sultry for her liking. Quickly, she laughed it off, though in truth, it was taking time for the intensity of the kiss to fully wear off. She knew her face was flushed, and her heart was still racing...
"Did I...upset you?" Link asked, his face worried.
"'Upset me'?" Zelda repeated, confused. Then, she understood. "Oh, no!" Zelda cried, shaking her head. "Oh, sweet Nayru, no, Link!" She nuzzled into his chest. "You haven't upset me at all. It's just...I never thought you could actually...desire me." And it was true – she'd felt true desire in his kiss. And, as much as it had surprised her, it had done wonders for her self-esteem.
"How can you doubt it?" Link asked. "But I don't want to pressure you into anything, Zelda. Honestly, that...aspect of our relationship hadn't even crossed my mind. I am perfectly willing to wait until we're married." Then, his face went pale. "Which, of course, is assuming you do want to get married, which is completely up to you!"
Zelda had to giggle at Link's funny babbling. "Oh, you're so funny." she cooed. "And I understand, as you do, that we have plenty of time to decide on our future together."
That seemed to calm Link. "I know." he said. "I just wanted you to know that I won't ever pressure you."
"I know you won't." Zelda said, smiling.
Then, Link said, "Well, I...I guess I'd better go check on Epona; she's used to being outdoors, and she might get nervous."
"Okay." Zelda replied. Smiling, she added, "I really do love you."
Grinning his charming grin, Link sweetly stole one last kiss from her, before adding, "And I love you." Then, he headed for the stables.
Alone once more, Zelda finally allowed herself to indulge in one happy, utterly girlish squeal of joy. She didn't care who heard her, she was just so happy. Link's words had both soothed her insecurities and brought her joy to levels she'd never dreamed of. Link not only loved her, he desired her, and he'd already considered marriage, if only briefly. Keeping her happy smile, Zelda looked up at the stars.
Tonight had been perfect.
From his hiding spot behind a pillar, Caspian had heard it all. He'd heard Link speak to Zelda, as well as the peasant's threat to "boot him into orbit." Then, he'd actually seen the peasant dare to lay his hands on Zelda, his Zelda!
Furthermore, he'd heard enough to realize that, despite her fiery words, Zelda was quite vulnerable. Once Link was permanently removed – and if all went according to plan, he would be – Zelda would collapse, and readily accept his comforting embrace...and she'd be his.
Walking away, Caspian went to go find that peasant, to give him a small taste of the defeat he'd soon receive.
Insulting his family was one thing...but touching his Princess was quite another.
Link having a future with Zelda? Not if he could help it.
To Link's relief, Epona had taken to the stable easily, so he'd given her some fresh hay and water, given her a good brushing, covered her in a blanket, and bade her good-night, closing the stable as he left.
Stopping, Link looked up at the starry night sky, thinking of Zelda. She really made him happy; he'd meant every word he'd spoken to her...
"Out for a bit of night air?"
Groaning, Link turned to find Caspian there, only this time, the arrogant noble had strapped a rapier to his belt. Calmly, Link arched an eyebrow. "Out for some night gardening?" he parried.
Caspian's eyes narrowed. "I think," he began, "that I've had enough of your insolence, peasant. It's high time you learned your place."
"Oh really?" Link said calmly, crossing his arms. "And who's going to teach me? You?"
"That does it!" Caspian snarled. "You, peasant, shall learn to respect those better than you are!" With that, he rushed at Link with a stab attack.
Calmly, Link stepped to the side, letting the attack pass him, then grabbed Caspian's sword-hand with both hands, twisting his wrist back on itself. Caspian screamed in agony, his rapier falling from his now-nerveless fingers. Link let go, letting his defeated opponent fall to the ground.
"'Better than me'?" Link repeated, his eyes narrowing. His voice turned cold. "Better at what?" he growled. "I suggest you keep that blade sheathed for show, Caspian, for in hands as incompetent as yours, that's all it's good for." Then, Link walked away, back into the Castle.
In the throne room, as Link came in, the King walked over to him. "Are you all right, Link? You seem troubled."
"Sire," Link replied, "when Caspian comes inside, I'd advise you to advise him to reduce his wine consumption."
The King looked concerned. "Did he...start a quarrel with you?"
"He tried. He's wounded mostly in pride, though his wrist will be sore for a few days." Link said. Then, he added, "Sire, one thing still worries me: how did Vaati kidnap Zelda in the first place?"
"I honestly don't know." the King replied. "It reminded me of seven years ago, when the first battle against Ganondorf began. Somehow, the main gates opened, letting his entire army into the Castle. We barely escaped with our lives."
"Did...someone...let him in?" Link asked. "Were you...betrayed?"
"I can offer no other explanation."
Link had a horrible thought. "Sire...what if that same betrayer is still here? What if...he let Vaati in?"
"It's possible." the King said. "Lad, you'd best get to your chamber and retire; you've a long journey ahead of you. As for myself...I'll have an eye out while you're gone."
"Thank you, Sire." Link said, bowing. Then, he headed to his room, to turn in.