Chapter 29 - Assembly
"River Town must be protected."
Dorrel's words filled the conference chamber as members of the revolt sat around him in their scheduled assembly meant to discuss the defense of Hyrule. But before more could be said, the doors opened with Zelda entering the room followed closely by Link who, for the first time since his encounter with Ganondorf, was fully equipped thanks to the healing properties of his mother's power.
Despite their late arrival, everyone stood from their seats in a show of respect to their Princess and her champion. Zelda regretted missing the start of their meeting, but she'd unexpectedly slept in and sent word ahead to inform everyone.
Because of this, Dorrel greeted her by stating, "Good morning, Your Majesty. I trust you slept well?"
"I did," Zelda returned, though she didn't want to consider the reason she'd slept so well. Otherwise she'd end up blushing again, and her cheeks had already turned pink so many times that day she was afraid the next instance might cause her head to combust.
It was the very first thing that had happened that morning when she woke still tangled in Link's arms. Looking up to see him in the broad light of day as he smiled and offered a warm good morning had the memories of the previous evening crashing down. In response, she'd meekly bowed her head to bury her face in his neck, though embarrassment didn't stop her from scolding him for snickering.
When Link related how the difference between her shy demeanor now and her uninhibited responses the night before was just cute, she told him flat out to shut up and never mention it again.
And it only made him chuckle harder.
So she tried to get up and escape his teasing only to find herself caught in a deep kiss that had her blushing all over again because of the feelings it evoked, feelings she now understood with much more clarity—and she melted against him faster than snowflakes falling on a burning building.
Was she really so … wanton? Goddess' honest truth, all she wanted to do was spend the day in his quarters discovering more of the intimacy they'd explored the previous night. But perhaps it wasn't so out of the ordinary. After all, Link seemed to be just as interested, so she could only assume such heady desires were natural.
Regardless, they had no chance to further their engagement. Instead, a knock came to the door with Tenio asking from the corridor if Link had seen Zelda because the scheduled assembly was starting in ten minutes and she wasn't in her quarters.
Link had no idea what assembly Tenio was talking about, but Zelda certainly seemed to because she nearly jumped off his lap and, in as casual a voice as she could muster, threw out an excuse about sleeping in accidentally. She added that she'd come to help Link dress his wounds so he could also attend the meeting, and asked Tenio if he'd inform the others.
Once Tenio acknowledged her request and departed, Zelda explained the purpose of their meeting and how she'd forgotten to mention it because of the party yesterday—not to mention their activities afterwards. In the process, Link began the task of getting dressed, then helped Zelda sneak back to her room for a change of clothing.
Thankfully, they weren't spotted, and soon made their way to the conference chamber where the Myriad Stone was located and everyone of significance in the revolt had gathered, including Dorrel, Lyonel, Impa, Arden, Olnor, Betarro, and Tenio. A few town leaders were also present, standing around the large ovular table at the center of the room with only two seats available.
Link followed Zelda to them and waited until she was seated before settling down next to her with Lyonel to his right and Impa to Zelda's left. In turn, everyone else took their seats while the Princess addressed the assembly.
"I apologize for my tardiness. I was trying to talk Link out of wearing his equipment for a little while longer, but I think he's just anxious to get back into a fight."
A round of chuckles rolled through the crowd as Olnor related teasingly, "That's because he's a real man."
More laughter ensued his words, giving the impression that everyone was happy to have Link in attendance, though some seemed to be concerned which was evidenced by Dorrel's next question.
"I assume you're feeling better if you're equipping your weapons?"
Unwilling to reveal his mother's true identity and risk the truth getting back to Ganondorf, Link provided an answer that was vague but would still give enough information to be appeasing.
"Myriad has instructed Zelda and I on ways to heal my injuries more quickly, and it's worked wonders."
Nodding, Zelda qualified, "They're not completely gone, but I believe they will be after only a few more treatments."
"It's good to hear," Tenio supplied, and several people visibly concurred by nodding in agreement. The sooner Link healed, the sooner they could resume their fight against Ganondorf, though neither Link nor Zelda got the feeling that was the sole reason for their approval.
Instead, they were simply happy knowing he was doing so well.
Still, it was important to commence with the assembly, and Zelda got underway by asking, "So, where were we in the discussion?"
"We were just discussing the protection of River Town," Dorrel qualified, explaining, "As far as we know, it's one of the last settlements standing in the kingdom which is still inhabited. All of the others are deserted, and as far as we know, the only ones that haven't been completely destroyed are Kakariko, Roshala, Mido, Cottesmoore, and Shallomire."
Taking a breath, Dorrel concluded, "We've also heard rumors that there was an attempted invasion of the Goron City, but we've yet to confirm it. If it's true, the Kokiri could be next, or even the Fairy Pools. So I say River Town needs to be made a priority if only to preserve as much of the old kingdom as possible."
"A worthwhile goal," Zelda returned, then asked, "but were there objections?"
"We were just getting to that when you came in, Your Highness," Dorrel answered, regarding those gathered in stating, "So let's discuss this now."
Tenio was the first to raise a hand, and upon recognition, he stated, "I don't disagree with the notion of preserving the kingdom, and yet I think it's a better idea to evacuate the town and protect the people. Their lives are more valuable than the structures they live in, and Ganondorf can't harm those he can't find. Additionally, most of the townspeople are aware of what's going on in the rest of the kingdom, meaning they're likely soon to flee and put themselves in danger without realizing we're here and can provide protection."
Considering his points, Zelda remarked, "That's a good point to discuss, Tenio. So what does everyone else think?"
Betarro responded by countering Tenio's argument with the question, "You're right that people's lives are more important, but where are we supposed to evacuate them to? We haven't even been able to secure safe passage through the fields, and the outpost in the canyons is almost full. So the only place we know for certain that we could transport them safely is Zora's Domain, but who's to say if the Zora would even be willing to harbor refugees."
"It could also take time to contact and then convince them," Olnor supplied.
As they spoke, Link listened carefully with his own thoughts surfacing in regards to the matter. Yet he didn't speak them, feeling it was Zelda's place to handle things, and she was certainly on top of it.
"Link and I managed to establish a good relation with Queen Majalyn," Zelda announced, adding, "but I'm not certain now would be the right time to impose on her, at least, not on such a large scale. Still, Tenio is right, and the townspeople may flee if something isn't done to waylay their fears."
Thoughtfully, Olnor supplied, "Most of them know the revolt exists, but are unaware that an outpost is located so close to their home, and it's in their best interests that we remain hidden. Yet we may be able to assuage them by increasing the amount of patrols we send into town for protection, and I could speak with the mayor to inform him of the patrol's origins. That way, he can tell the people without revealing our location."
Everyone seemed to think his suggestion was a good idea, most exchanging nods and supplying words of support. But there was one man at the table who didn't think it would make much difference, and his voice wasn't one heard spoken in the conference chamber often, if at all.
"It's a good idea to give the people hope, but you're honestly wasting your time."
In turn, the voices quietened down as each person turned their attention to the blindfolded soldier sitting at the back of the table. Undaunted by the sight of so many eyes now upon him, Arden continued, "Safeguarding lives is important. Preserving the kingdom for the future is important. But protecting a single town isn't where our focus should be, and I can name the reason why."
A moment of silence ensued his words, and Zelda didn't have to ask to know why. Some of those gathered simply weren't certain if they knew the answer, but most were still reluctant to trust Arden, and as such, they cared little for anything he had to say.
Yet she had no intentions of preventing any voice from being heard, and remained silent as Tenio asked, "What's the reason, Arden?"
Exhaling low, Arden sat back in his seat and answered, "Ganondorf's indifference. For as important as it is to safeguard Hyrule's people, you can't waste your efforts on the conservation of a single town when the entire kingdom is at his mercy, and there's no single place to protect that will change the story. Ganondorf doesn't care about towns, people, or even the palace he resides in, and any villages he's destroyed were all random."
Gazing at each person present, he finally concluded, "The only point to it was finally getting his hands on what he wants above all else—the other two halves of the Triforce."
Because this was the first time Arden had spoken of his former king in depth, everyone remained silent, and their contemplation allowed him to continue.
"He let Link live, and I can promise you this wasn't some heroic miracle on Link's part. I have faith in the kid's abilities, but I also know Ganondorf went easy on him because he wanted Princess Zelda to feel helpless when Link returned crippled and frail."
Though Link knew Ganondorf had another reason for allowing him to live, he couldn't dispute anything Arden said. Through most of their fight, he'd felt as if the King of Evil was holding back, toying with him, and perhaps not simply to allow him to live, either.
With the thoughts in mind, Link finally addressed the assembly to confirm Arden's statements.
"He's right. When I fought Ganondorf in Engleton, I couldn't stop thinking his combat skill seemed too basic to be all he was capable of doing, as if he was toying with me to make a point. He wanted me to know that it would only take one false step to cause my downfall, that he could overcome me without much effort at all if he so chose."
The grim expressions his testimony put on everyone's faces was regrettable, and yet Link wanted them to know the truth of the matter, not to mention the fact that Arden wasn't lying. Even now, the blind soldier nodded in confirmation, adding a final comment.
"So what everyone needs to worry about now is your ability to fight back, because that's the only way you'll preserve anything."
Everyone at the table exchanged looks before Betarro turned to Arden and asked, "You've typically remained silent during our discussions, so why are you telling us this now?"
Betarro's question was unsurprisingly suspicious. Most had accepted Arden's presence with relative ease after he'd delivered Link to River Town safely, but a sense of wariness persisted. He'd served as Ganondorf's right hand for nearly a decade, after all, and Zelda had been warned several times of the possible dangers involved in allowing him to stay.
Yet her intuition on the matter wasn't warning her away from the soldier. Arden had even taken her aside and told her he not only expected no special treatment, he didn't want it. Because of that, she remained silent now, and Arden wasn't upset by Betarro's suspicion, fully understanding their need to trust him.
Perhaps more importantly, he also understood his own need to help bring down the one who'd blinded him for ten years of sightless service.
So Arden's response was simple. "I never spoke because I know not everyone trusts me. Honestly, I'm surprised any of you have in any capacity, but now that Link's shown so much improvement, I believe it's time the focus was directed to the most important matters."
Everyone exchanged a look as if to contemplate Arden's declarations and while some nodded in agreement, others still seemed skeptical of his convictions. But before anyone had the chance to start a debate on whether Ganondorf's former Captain was reliable, Zelda captured everyone's attention with a single declaration.
"Arden has to be forgiven. Otherwise, none of us should be here."
After a moment of contemplation, Dorrel asked, "Why is that, Your Majesty?"
"Because we are all guilty of the same crime." With that said, she looked up to gaze at the confused faces of those sitting around the table and continued, "We all lost faith. Years ago when the Myriad Stones stopped working, everyone thought they'd been abandoned by the Sages and would not act until the Stones reawakened. It was the telling sign that the Hero of Legend had come to stop the evil brewing in the kingdom, an evil that had the chance to grow stronger due to inaction."
Some of those gathered stared at Zelda in shock with one man replying, "Your Highness, there was nothing we could've done to stop it."
"I know," Zelda replied evenly, her tone gentle as she continued, "and I'm not suggesting anyone here could have stopped it. I'm also thankful you stayed out of harm's way and protected yourself and your families because you believed it was the best thing to do, just as Arden believed."
Casting her gaze in his direction, she concluded, "He served Ganondorf because he'd lost faith and thought it was the best course of action after being lied to, confused, and misled just as we all were, and who's to say whether a group such as this could've possibly slowed the spread of evil had they only tried?
"The point isn't to insinuate that anyone is at fault for the current state of the kingdom, but to remind everyone that we've all done what we believed was best. So an inability to forgive and accept Arden means we have no right to give ourselves the same courtesy and move on to rebuild the kingdom."
In response, several people exchanged thoughtful looks with some nodding as if realizing the Princess was right. They had to let go of the past and embrace what was coming if they ever hoped to set things right—to restore their faith.
And the first step had to be taken now.
As if the thought was spoken aloud, Dorrel asked, "If Ganondorf wants the Triforce so badly, why didn't he take Link to the palace so that Zelda might attempt to rescue him?"
Arden scoffed, remarking simply, "Arrogance, for one thing."
"Arrogance?"
Arden gave a slow nod. "He believes they'll eventually come to him regardless, and just as River Town doesn't pose a threat, neither do any of us. As far as he's concerned, we're akin to ants at a picnic. Annoying, but nothing more than an inconvenience. This means he has free reign to send Link back bloodied and broken to decimate the peoples' spirit, and there's nothing we can do about it."
A soft wave of chattering rolled through the assembly once the words were spoken, though it was far from loud enough to be distracting. As a result, Zelda managed to get her thoughts organized in quick time before addressing the situation.
"Arden, I realize Ganondorf isn't concerned with River Town, but the townspeople are still afraid, and if they flee, they risk running into his path where he'll trample them. So do you have an opinion on what should be done concerning the protection of the town?"
Exhaling a low breath, Arden waved at Olnor and answered, "His suggestion was best. Increase patrols and have him talk to the mayor so everyone will know they're as safe as they can possibly be. As an added benefit, we'll be more likely to see trouble coming before it gets here."
No one seemed to disagree, so Zelda announced, "Then that's what we'll do for now, and as for focusing on how to deal with Ganondorf, the best place to start would be putting the rest of our efforts into training our soldiers."
Glancing about at the people gathered, Lyonel qualified, "That's a sound decision, Your Highness, and I'll oversee training once you and Link depart."
Confused, Olnor asked, "Depart?"
Nodding, Lyonel replied, "Yes. There's more they have to do on their journey, and I think we keep forgetting they were only staying long enough to allow Link to recover from his injuries. Yet he's attending this assembly now, fully equipped as the Princess' champion, and everyone knows a warrior only dons his weapons once ready to return to battle."
"Ah, good point," Olnor remarked. "In that case, we do have much to discuss."
As they spoke, Zelda stared down at her bare hands, the Triforce symbol on the back of her left clearly visible. The golden mark of the sacred relic almost seemed to glow, holding her studious gaze as they discussed each matter needing attention, and she handled their affairs to the best of her ability.
In turn, Link watched her, finding his assumption of the capable leader she'd become was accurate. Zelda's demeanor in dealing with the assembly was calm and rational, and she didn't simply issue her decisions. She asked others for input and weighed the possibilities, taking everyone's needs into account before making judgments.
Eventually, their gazes met, and he offered her a small smile, one she returned as everyone else agreed on their need for a plan of offense in case the worse came to pass.
That's when Dorrel inquired, "Your Highness, do you have any idea what you'll be doing after departing the outpost?"
"After our talks with Myriad, I know that we'll need to visit the Spirit Temple, though Link and I have yet to discuss this with her properly," Zelda qualified.
"You should do so now, Your Highness, so we might all have her consultation."
Impa's suggestion had Zelda's gaze meeting the Myriad Stone settled just within her reach. Yet she didn't immediately touch it due to a piece of information they needed to discuss which only she, Link, and Myriad were privy to—her parents' survival.
Revealing that information to so many people would only cause word to spread, and very quickly. So before consulting Myriad about the next step of their journey, she had to dismiss a few people.
"Actually, I think it's time we took a recess," Zelda announced. "There's an important matter of a sensitive nature I need to discuss with Myriad and only a few others, so I'd like to ask all but Link, Impa, Lyonel, and Arden to depart."
Everyone whose name hadn't been called stood without question and bowed respectfully to their Princess, then turned to dismiss themselves.
Once the doors closed, Arden left his seat to join the others near the Stone while Impa inquired, "What is it that needs to be discussed so privately, Your Highness?"
Lowering her head, Zelda took a breath, but couldn't quite suppress her emotions when answering softly, "This is hard for me to say without becoming emotional."
Before she could continue, she felt Link's hand covering hers and looked up at him as he interjected, "Let me tell them, Zelda."
As his request drew everyone's attention, Zelda gave a nod for him to go ahead, prompting Link to explain, "The only other people who know what I'm about to tell you aside from my mother are Jada and Nissa, and we've all agreed that it's best to keep the information secret for now. It's something Ganondorf told me the evening I faced him, and it's the biggest reason he allowed me to live because he wanted me to tell Princess Zelda so she'd go running to him."
With that explained, Link took a deep breath and added, "King Hadinaru and Queen Nissandra are alive, being held within the Palace in a perpetual slumber. He told me Dragmire refrained from killing them because once he learned of their true child's survival, he knew she was one of the two granted a piece of the Triforce. So he wanted to use her parents as leverage."
In turn, Impa, Arden, and Lyonel all exchanged uncertain looks, the silence drawing out between them suggesting neither had expected to hear such news. Zelda watched each carefully, trying to gauge their expressions, but it was difficult to draw any conclusions before Impa asked a question.
"Is it possible that he was lying to set a trap?"
"No," Link returned, shaking his head. "I thought the same thing when he told me, but then I recalled Zelda's recurring dreams where her parents are begging her to save them. That aside, he didn't have to lie, not about that, otherwise he would've done as Dorrel suggested and took me to hold within the palace to ensure she came to him."
Nodding, Arden qualified, "He's right, and before you ask, no, I had no idea the King and Queen were still alive. But I do know Ganondorf wouldn't waste his time lying about something like that when he already believes so strongly that they'll inevitably come to him anyway."
Simultaneously, Impa and Lyonel turned their gazes down, their expressions proving they weren't thrilled to learn the rulers they'd sworn to protect had been incapacitated in such a way. Surely, both were glad to know the King and Queen yet lived, meaning a chance remained to save them, but failing in their duties had to be unpleasant as well.
Proving it, Lyonel remarked, "A part of me wishes I'd been more thorough after they were attacked, but I remember the potency of Dragmire's magic, and I won't waste time second guessing myself. I also won't second guess the evidence. If Zelda is having recurring dreams, it must be true, and Arden served Ganondorf for ten years."
"Let's not mention that again," Arden muttered.
Smirking, Lyonel went on, "Well, my point is that you know him better than anyone here, so we'd be fools not to listen. We also have to figure out how to move forward and accomplish our goals with the added task of saving them while keeping their survival secret."
Nodding in agreement, Zelda qualified, "Then I think it's time we spoke with Myriad to see if she has any suggestions to provide that we haven't thought of."
Everyone concurred without question. So Zelda turned to place her hand on the Stone and contact the Sage, the chamber around them darkening in an instant as she announced, "Myriad, we're in need of your guidance."
"Speak your concerns, my Princess," Myriad replied simply. "I am listening."
"You actually have five listeners now," Zelda began, qualifying the names of those present before continuing. "We've been discussing the news that my parents are alive and being held in a perpetual slumber by Ganondorf."
"I'd suspected you would mention this soon as Link convened with me but a day ago to ask my advice on whether to tell you of what he'd learned. He was right to believe your ignorance would protect you, which is one of the reasons I never spoke of it after Ganondorf informed me of their survival not long after my awakening."
"We've discussed the same thing, and decided it wisest not to inform anyone but the three with us here," Zelda related. "That way, Ganondorf won't know if I've received the news or not."
Myriad's reply came without hesitation, and she agreed with their decision. "That is truly the best plan of action. As much as it pains me to say this, Princess Zelda, your parents lives now hang by a thread. Ganondorf's arrogance leads him to believe he does not need them to secure your half of the Triforce, but he will not kill them as long as he is under the assumption that you are oblivious to his leverage.
"So for now, they will be safe in their slumber, just as I was in mine, and in light of this news, it is time to reveal more of the reason behind Ganondorf's desire for the Triforce, so please listen well."
As soon as Zelda confirmed that she had their full attention, Myriad continued without pause.
"The first fact to understand is that the Triforce of Power is not the strongest despite its name. All have equal value in power, but separated, lack traits the others possess. If one possessed the relic when fully assembled, they would have the wisdom of what must be done, the power to accomplish it, and the courage to see it through.
"However, Dragmire used the Triforce of Power alone to seal me in the Sacred Realm, a seal I reinforced with my own power. Yet not even my power can stand up to any piece of the Triforce, to say nothing for when they're assembled into one."
"Wait," Zelda drew out, finding her comments posed a curious question. "Lyonel told us that in his haste to seal you within the Sacred Realm, Dragmire didn't realize he'd locked your power away with you. But if it doesn't surpass that of the Triforce of Power, then why didn't he use his third of the Triforce to return and attempt to claim it? You're right, he should have been strong enough to do so."
"That is the precise question I hoped you'd ask, my Princess," Myriad returned, adding, "and the answer is simple. The Triforce grants the user that which they most desire. It may take years to manifest, but eventually, their wish will come true."
Gazing at the Myriad Stone thoughtfully, Impa suggested, "Dragmire wanted the other two halves of the Triforce more than he wanted your power, just as his son now does. So neither could break the seal using the Triforce of Power without the other two pieces in their possession."
"Precisely," Myriad confirmed. "Dragmire's desire for an assembled Triforce was so great that he could not undo what he'd done, and Ganondorf now faces the same dilemma."
Considering her words, Zelda looked over at Link to spy a somber expression on his face as he suggested, "Then once we unleash all of the Sage Essences and go to face him, we'll only be bringing him what he wants."
"Possibly," Myriad confirmed, "though there's no guarantee that Ganondorf will be able to take what he desires from you, particularly not once the remaining essences are unlocked. This is why you need to go to the Gerudo Desert where the Spirit Temple awaits. He still controls the essences of Spirit and Shadow, and once unleashed, Zelda will be fully empowered as the Seventh Sage. This combined with your Triforce halves will strike a balance and provide an edge that wasn't present during your previous confrontation."
As she spoke, Link and Zelda exchanged a look, and neither needed to ask what the other was thinking. The determination in their eyes was enough to spell it out—they were both ready to accomplish this final task that would give them a fighting chance of overthrowing Ganondorf and restoring peace to the kingdom at last.
Proving it, Zelda wasted no time suggesting, "Then we should start our journey to the Gerudo Desert as soon as possible."
"Yes," Myriad confirmed. "I'd also planned to warn you of the inhabitants in the valley as the Gerudo are known for protecting their home mercilessly. However, Link has informed me of his history living in the desert, so you thankfully shouldn't encounter any problems once you arrive."
Smiling thoughtfully, Link qualified, "It'll be nice to travel somewhere familiar for once and not have to worry about stepping on anyone's toes."
"Indeed," Myriad agreed, adding, "and before you get started with preparations for your trip, I have some good news to pass along. A new Sage of Fire has arisen in the wake of your efforts to free the consumed essences, being Chief of Goron City, Kioson."
Hearing this, Link and Zelda exchanged a surprised glance. Indeed, they'd never forget the Chief, particularly due to the wedding ceremony he'd officiated for them—not that they were going to bring that up. Ever.
They also hoped Kioson hadn't told Myriad, and if he had, that she'd be decent enough not to tell anyone else.
Thankfully, Impa didn't give her the chance to comment when she asked, "So we'll be able to contact him through the Stones as well?"
"It's possible, yes. However, when Kioson convened with me, he told me that Ganondorf's Jackals recently attempted to invade Goron City, but were unsuccessful. Due to this, he has decided to ignore all contact through the Stones with the exception of a calling to arms from my husband or to aid Princess Zelda and Link whenever they need it."
Realizing the Gorons were ready to assist in battle against Ganondorf because of the recent attack on their city, and knowing their help would be invaluable, Lyonel remarked, "Then Ganondorf made a mistake by trying to overthrow them."
Pursing his lips, Arden countered, "I don't know. It's possible Ganondorf wasn't intentionally attempting to invade Goron City when his Jackals roam at will and could've been doing nothing more than hunting prey. Still, it does work in our favor."
No one disagreed, and Impa turned her attention to Arden with the words, "We should go find the rest of the assembly and inform them. I'm sure they'll all be pleased to learn we've gained such a strong ally in our fight."
Zelda watched as Arden nodded and stood to accompany the Sheikah to the door. Once they departed, she returned her gaze to the Stone, unwilling to remove her hand before all topics had been discussed. Yet, in that particular moment, she was too consumed by thoughts of their previous conversation to think of any last minute issues to explore.
Knowing their next move would be the last step to take in preparing to confront Ganondorf was overwhelming. After everything they'd done, could they really be so close to accomplishing their goals? Perhaps, but despite their victories thus far, the notion left her riddled with worry.
Nothing had been simple, and there was even more at stake now than when they'd started their journey. The thought of it had her taking a deep breath to clear her mind, and it would've worked if Link hadn't chosen that moment to ask Myriad a question which reminded her of a problem they'd yet to resolve.
"Mother, have you heard anything from that shadow of me lately?"
A wave of nausea rushed through Zelda at the thought of Link's shadow. With everything else going on, she'd nearly forgotten about the mimicry, and the reminder was like a swift fist to the gut—particularly after last night.
Now that she and Link had shared such an intimate experience, she couldn't help recalling how his mimicry claimed to harbor the same feelings for her as his progenitor. In light of her discoveries concerning where such feelings could lead, her skin crawled at the very thought.
Feeling such disgust for a mirror of someone she loved beyond compare was strangely symbolic, but he'd already taken liberties with her once, and she was desperate not to face another, similar situation.
Sadly, Myriad's response didn't assuage her concerns.
"No, I have not, but if I do, I'll make certain to relay everything he tells me."
Exhaling low, Link thanked his mother and promised to contact her again as soon as they'd arrived in the Gerudo Valley and he had a chance to visit the Stone located there. In the process, he did his best to mask his disappointment, having hoped to learn something more about his mimicry's whereabouts.
After all, they hadn't heard anything from the shadow in quite some time. So it seemed likely that he was soon to show up—and the only positive the prospect posed was the chance to eliminate him for good.
In the meantime, Link silently promised to capitalize on such an opportunity as Myriad gave them her blessings, allowing Zelda to remove her hand from the Stone. With their contact broken, he put his focus on the trip they were about to undertake—with the Gerudo Desert being to the south of Hyrule, and River Town located to the far north, it was going to be a long journey indeed.
Yet he had no chance to consider their travel plans in depth before Lyonel stood and related, "You two should take your time getting your things together and saying goodbye to the people here instead of rushing as I have a faster means of travel for you to take than horseback. So once you're ready, come find me."
Watching his father start for the door, Link asked uncertainly, "A faster means of travel?"
Glancing back from beneath his hood, Lyonel nodded and directed, "Just have your flute handy, and I'll explain everything later."
With those words, he departed, and Link stood from his chair, remarking, "Well, whatever means of travel we'll be using, it's a good thing we won't have to rush because we definitely have a lot of people to say goodbye to."
Though Zelda had stood with him, she didn't respond to his observation. The silence drew his gaze to her face where he found a vacantly thoughtful expression, and Link placed a hand on her arm in concern.
"What's wrong, Zelda?"
Drawn from her thoughts, Zelda met his gaze, then released a sigh and frowned, admitting, "When you mentioned your shadow, I just … I remembered how he said he felt the same way about me that you do and it made me feel a little sick, especially … after last night."
Link certainly hadn't forgotten what his mimicry had done to Zelda in Engleton—indeed, it was one of the reasons he'd asked his mother if she'd heard anything recently. No matter what happened next, he wanted to keep Zelda away from the shadow, and her confession drew a surge of anger through him as he moved closer and placed his hand beneath her chin to lift her face to his.
"Don't worry about him, Zelda," he related gently, but with enough confidence to be reassuring. "I'm not going to let him hurt you."
"I know that," she returned, exhaling low in adding, "I just don't like the implications."
"Neither do I," he muttered, then leaned in to kiss her gently before mentioning with a small smile, "so just think about where we're going for now. I'll get to show you around the valley, and I think you'll like it."
Finally, Zelda found a smile of her own. He was right, and she'd yet to consider their destination in depth—they were traveling to a place he considered home, and she was definitely interested to see it.
So she stepped next to him and latched her arm in his with the words, "That would be nice. I have been curious about it."
Smirking as he escorted her to the door, he pointed out, "You're curious about a lot of things."
"Link!" she exclaimed, smacking his arm with her cheeks turning bright red. "Don't tease me!"
As she hid her face in embarrassment, Link withheld his snickers and gave a heartfelt apology.
"I'm sorry, I couldn't help it. So I'll just have to make it up to you."
Zelda hesitated, but finally asked as they reached the door, "How's that?"
Because she'd continued to stare down at the floor, she didn't realize he'd leaned in until his whispered voice sounded against her ear, "I'll get you some chocolate from the bakery in River Town before we go."
The depth of his voice combined with the gentle kiss he pressed against her ear had her too dizzy to stand without leaning against him. The promise of chocolate curved her lips in a smile as well, and as they stepped out into the hallway, she finally looked up at him and related, "As long as you never tease me about that again, I'll forgive you. But I still say you're impossible sometimes."
"Impossibly charming," he countered, grinning as they walked on.
Epona and Frost seemed pleased to be taken from the stables by their riders, both of them eagerly following Link and Zelda up to the snowy plateau above the outpost housing the revolt.
Lyonel awaited their arrival near the edge of the cliff, though the scenery was too breathtaking to immediately approach him. The rock walls that towered on each side of the Zora River provided a wonderful view of mountains and hillsides, and even a portion of Lake Hylia was visible to the east from so high up.
Yet, to the southwest, dark clouds had all but consumed the sky, signaling the location of Hyrule Palace. The gloomy mass had existed over the heart of the kingdom for as long as Link and Zelda could remember, but was now larger and more turbulent, serving as testament to the fact that Ganondorf's evil was spreading.
Link tried to ignore it, focusing on Epona when she nuzzled his shoulder as if she'd missed him. Reaching up to pat her nose with a smile, he focused on his father as the wind whipped around them with a few flakes of snow gusting by.
Zelda smiled at the sight, glad to be distracted from the dark clouds in the distance. Nevertheless, lightning from the storms quickly captured her attention once more, their slow churning drawing her in so thoroughly that she didn't realize she'd stopped to stare.
The looming clouds were foreboding in their chaos, a reminder of where their path would eventually lead—and of where her parents were being held.
While regarding the turbulence, she could almost hear their cries for help, so consumed by the memory of her dreams that she jolted at the sound of Lyonel's voice.
"Princess? Are you alright?"
Gaze snapping toward him, she saw Link coming to a stop at his father's question to cast a curious look her way.
Realizing they'd both worry if she didn't answer quickly, she pushed the thoughts of her parents aside and gave a brisk nod.
"Yes, sorry," she started, leading Frost over to join them with a small smile. "I was just distracted by those clouds and how large they seem."
Thankfully, both men seemed to be appeased by her response as Lyonel turned from them to grab a shovel he'd brought up before their arrival. Lifting it, he dug through the snow at a spot close to the edge of the cliff, and because the blanket of white wasn't deep, he soon uncovered a stone marker upon the ground with three symbols etched into its surface—the emblem of the Zora, the eye of the Sheikah, and the royal crest featuring the Triforce.
As Zelda tried to get a better glimpse of the marker, a cold breeze gusted over them, forcing her to lift a hand to block her face from several snowflakes clouding her sight. At the same time, Lyonel related, "This is one of only three remaining teleporting stones in Hyrule. It takes a certain power to use them, and there aren't many left who know how anymore."
With the breeze calming down again, Zelda lowered her hand and regarded Lyonel to realize his hood had been blown from his head, but he wasn't attempting to replace it. Instead, he turned to them, giving her a clear glimpse of his entire face for the first time.
It was difficult to draw her gaze away as a result, unable to ignore just how much he and Link truly resembled each other. Aside from the scar marring his left cheek and temple, as well as his disfigured ear, the only differences was Lyonel's darker shade of blond hair and lighter, sky blue eyes.
As she considered it, he qualified, "This is why I told you to bring the flute, Link. The Zora didn't only enchant it to play music, but also as a means of transportation. So all that's needed is to play it while focusing on where you want to go, and the stone will transport you to the marker nearest your destination."
Canting her head, Zelda asked, "How close is the marker nearest to the Gerudo Valley?"
It was Link who provided a response by stating, "Not far, actually. There's a marker in the desert. I'd seen it several times before, but never knew what it was for, and it's located close to an oasis the Gerudo sometimes use for water. So I know the way to the valley from there pretty well."
"Good," Lyonel replied. "Then you shouldn't have any trouble in your travels."
Link nodded in confirmation, feeling as if he could've accomplished the journey blindfolded—a promising thought. After all the trouble they'd had traveling, it was nice knowing they'd reach the desert without any fuss and be in the Gerudo Valley before nightfall.
Still, it wasn't easy to get started in realizing the time had come to part ways with his father, even for a short while.
For most of the day, all he and Zelda had done was say goodbye to everyone. They'd all wished the Hylians good luck on their journey in return, and despite knowing they were on the verge of destroying the last of Dragmire's orbs, there was a certain degree of sadness in departing the company of the friends they'd made.
But none of it was as difficult as bidding his own father farewell.
The look on Lyonel's face proved he felt the same way, and Link didn't hesitate to hand Epona's reins to Zelda before approaching him for a warm embrace.
Lyonel met his son halfway, putting more strength into their hug than before due to Link's improving condition, and they remained locked together just that way for several moments.
Taking a deep breath, Lyonel then admitted, "I can't help feeling a bit guilty whenever I hug you."
Confused, Link inquired, "Why?"
His father exhaled low, relating on a somber tone, "Because the one thing Myriad wanted most was to hold you again."
With his temple still resting against his father's shoulder, Link opened his eyes and turned a determined look up at him, promising, "I'll make sure she gets that chance."
Half of Lyonel's mouth raised in a smile as he related, "I know you will, and I know we'll see each other again soon."
Nodding, Link gave him one last hug before finally stepping back and, in an attempt to lighten the mood, asked, "But before I go, can I ask you something?"
"What's that?"
"Well," Link started, motioning at his father's scars. "What did happen to scar you so badly?"
Pursing his lips, Lyonel grumbled as if annoyed by the memory and answered, "Some of Dragmire's magic. He caught several of us off guard, and I didn't see it coming because I'd just overcome Arden in battle. The blast went off only a few yards from where I stood and knocked me unconscious."
Link cringed, knowing that had to have hurt, especially considering the damage to his ear. At the thought, he suggested, "I suppose you're lucky to have sight in that eye."
"Don't suppose. I'm very lucky," he confirmed, placing a hand on his son's shoulder before adding meaningfully, "and I'm even luckier to have my son back."
The comment had Link smiling as he reached for Epona's reins to get underway. He felt precisely the same to have his father and, no matter what it took, he'd make sure they both had his mother in their lives again soon as well.
As he led Epona to the stone, he decided not to mention it to Lyonel, knowing his father already realized he was going to do everything he could to reunite their family. So instead, he related thoughtfully, "I'll be back soon, father. Give me a week."
Canting his head, Lyonel asked, "A week?"
Coming to a stop next to the stone, Link boasted with a smirk, "Zelda and I have gotten pretty good at destroying those orbs. So we won't need too long to finish it off."
At his son's arrogant tone, Lyonel sighed and related in all seriousness, "That's your mother talking."
Smiling at their exchange, Zelda walked over to Lyonel and didn't hesitate to give him a hug, finding she'd miss him just as much as Link while relating, "Take care of everyone, and don't worry about us too much if you can help it. We'll make sure to watch out for each other."
Returning her hug, Lyonel then stepped back and stood properly to provide the Princess with a formal bow and the words, "I know you will, Your Highness, and I'll make certain to keep everything in order here while you're away."
As he stood straight again, Zelda gave her heartfelt thanks before leading Frost over to Link and Epona. In turn, Link fished the flute out of his new hammer bag to prepare for their departure.
That's when Lyonel called, "And Link?"
Turning to look back, both he and Zelda cringed when his father stated sternly, "We'll have a discussion about your marriage to Zelda in the Goron City when you return."
Instantly, Link and Zelda shared a look, realizing Kioson had told Myriad the story after all. In response to the thought, Link scrambled for an excuse, feeling much like a chastised child in muttering, "But Dad … it wasn't like that!"
At his exclamation, Lyonel's stern expression transformed into a bright, amused smile. Seeing it, Link immediately stopped himself from trying to describe the event, realizing his father was only teasing.
Grumbling at the thought while still finding it impossible not to smile in return, he pointed out, "I guess I get my mischievousness from you."
For what felt like the first time in ages, Lyonel let a heartfelt laugh, watching as his son finally placed the flute against his lips to teleport himself and Zelda to the Gerudo Desert.
After a few notes sounded, a golden light engulfed them that grew in brightness as Link's melody took form, causing their bodies to appear translucent. Eventually, they faded from sight altogether, leaving only a ball of light that swiftly traveled through the air to the south.
Watching until he could no longer see it, Lyonel found himself staring at the sky for quite some time after they left with a small smile on his face. Despite everything that had gone wrong, he couldn't ignore a stubborn sense of hope clinging to the situation. Their fight wasn't over, and numerous obstacles still stood in the way of victory—one had only to look at the dark skies above Hyrule Palace to know that disheartening truth.
But for the first time many years, he had faith.
Finally turning to go back inside while lifting his hood over his head once more, his smile widened. A week, he thought. Perhaps I'll hold my son to it.