The Ambivalent Hero: Book II

by ZeldaRubix

The story of Link and Zelda continues in book II. Will Link be redeemed? Will Zelda succumb to her vices? Find out in the concluding story of book I. This was originally uploaded in 2013. It will be re-edited later.

10. Chapter 10

Inspiration: The Red Strings of Fate, a Chinese folklore tale, The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, 'The Grand Prismatic Spring' in Yellowstone National Park, "The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess" & "The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword".

Shout Out: AnCIent DeRUvish.

Word Count: 19,717

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Chapter 10

The Queen's Chamber, An Hour Later: Zelda's POV

I felt a little flushed from what happened a little while ago, and I was completely surprised at Link's actions. However, I wasn't going to pretend that I wasn't currently the happiest queen in the world. I was aware this was a time of seriousness, especially when I considered the situation regarding the Roostians, but if Link's actions were any indicator, I truly felt he was in love with me as much as I was with him. I couldn't believe he was so bold and forthcoming with my guard standing right outside the door. It was no wonder Farore blessed him with the Triforce of Courage, the man was completely impetuous. I could only imagine what the night would be like when we finally confessed our love for each other, and I felt my heart skip a beat because of such an inclination.

I can't wait for the Dragon Gala! I thought with a sudden overwhelming sense of excitement.

Presently, I was sitting at my dresser with a perpetual smile plastered across my face, when even Lydia took notice. This was a grave time, one where smiles were not generally allotted. A queen's life had just been attempted, and for me to be acting the way I was was completely inappropriate. It only made for more suspicions. Lydia was finishing up packing my things, and while she was closing my trunk, she stared at me from across the room. After the large clothing contraption was sealed, she came over to where I was and picked up my brush. She continued staring at me puzzled through the mirror before she picked up the tail end of my long braid and started brushing it. I was waiting for her inevitable question, because I knew one was generating through her pretty head. Before she spoke there was a brief silence, but then she cleared her throat in preparation to speak.

"My lady," she started.

I was fiddling through my jewelry box when I answered her.

"Hmmm?" I moaned thoughtfully.

She looked me over again and her puzzlement never went away.

"Are you alright?" she asked frankly.

I cleared my throat myself this time.

"I'm perfectly fine," I replied, "why?"

Lydia sighed and shook her head.

"I don't know," she said, "you don't seem like quite yourself. It was only an hour ago when your demeanor was completely different. Has something happened between now and then?"

I felt my cheeks blush uncontrollably.

Only too much Lydia my dear, I thought, now I know why you get so flushed when I ask about your nights regarding you and Ivan.

"I can see where you would think that, but I'm perfectly fine," I said with a genuine smile. "I just received a surprising gift this morning, that's all."

Lydia paused for a moment and raised her brows at my explanation. I was pretty sure she knew there was more to it than that.

"Oh," she said, "really? When was it given to you? I received no such notice of a gift."

I looked away from her eyes in the mirror and continued to feel the burn at my cheeks.

Neither did I Lydia, I thought.

I giggled a little bit, then turned to look at my friend. I took her hand in mine and squeezed it affectionately.

"Don't worry about it," I said, "it wasn't something I or anyone was expecting."

She was still flummoxed, that didn't clear any confusion for her.

"I beg your pardon?" she asked.

It only made me giggle some more.

"Don't worry my dear," I repeated and stood up, deciding it was time to change the subject. "Is everything ready to go?"

She gave me a queer expression, obviously not ready to defer the way I just did, but considering there was really no choice for her in the matter, she let the subject go.

"Actually, yes," she replied, "I even packed a few more gowns just in case you needed to stay a little longer."

I appreciated her foresight, but didn't think it would be necessary. I had no intention of being away from Link any longer than necessary.

"Thank you," I replied anyway. "Now, would you do me a favor and call for my escort. Master Bastion is going to be accompanying me to Dragon Roost."

Lydia looked at me surprised.

"Master Bastion?" she repeated for some reason.

I nodded, a little puzzled as to why that was such a revelation.

"Yes, why is that so out of the ordinary?" I asked.

Lydia didn't answer immediately and shrugged.

"It just seems rather strange that's all," she said, "I thought if you were to choose anyone to go with you, it would be Master Link."

I felt myself blush again, but didn't delve too much into that.

I wanted that too, I thought.

"Yes well," I replied, not really having a proper rebuttal, "Master Link is busy with his work here, otherwise I'm sure he would have volunteered to go with me. Now, we really must hurry, I'm afraid I've dawdled too much already."

My friend still didn't look all that convinced, but decided at my explanation to leave it at that. She bowed, then turned to go carry out my request. I in turn came full circle with my posture, and looked at my reflection in the mirror. I was so grateful to Hylia that I was finally going to experience some of the happiness she herself had experienced. I had heard tales of the great love between her and her hero. I wanted love like that more than anything in the world, and now it looked like I was going to have it, really, really have it. I smiled again at the woman looking back at me. I was glowing with elation.

"You're like a whole new Zelda," I whispered to myself.

I wasn't just saying that, I sincerely felt like a whole new woman. Anyway, after my brief reflection, I turned and followed after my servant to make sure everything I needed was accounted for. A few moments later, there was a knock on my door, and my escort had arrived. Master Bastion was with them, he bowed and smiled when he saw me. I smiled back and gestured for him to take the lead when we headed out. The rest of my men went to gather my trunks, then afterwards we all headed towards the north castle gates. When we arrived, waiting for us behind the wooden abridging was my coach and carriage, along with half the members of the royal guard. Bastion stepped ahead and signaled for the men on the other side to raise the gates. When the coast was clear per protocol, the young soldier extended his hand and opened the door to my carriage for me. I took it graciously, then got in and got seated. Afterwards, I gestured for Bastion to accompany me inside. He seemed surprised at this, possibly because he planned on riding in the front as my representative. However, he conceded to my order, and did as he was commanded. A few moments later, when everything was in tow, we headed out of the gates on the way to Dragon Roost.

I was glad we were finally setting off. I was extremely concerned for Constance.

I hope to get a better understanding once I get there, I thought, there are still a few things that make no sense to me.

While I pondered this, there was a lovely western breeze entering the carriage from the open window. In any other circumstance I would have enjoyed the comforts of nature. However, since I now had this opportunity, I closed the window so that I and my unexpected guest could have a bit of confidential talk. I was aware that part of Link's affections were due to him trying to circumvent the true situation I walked in on, and he did succeed measurably. However, I was also aware something had gone wrong between he and Bastion, and it didn't seem anything like the light banter both men were suggesting. I needed some honesty, and in all the time Bastion had served for me, he had always been honest.

It's time I tamed the shrew, I thought.

I cleared my throat in preparation to speak.

"How are you my good man?" I asked with a small smile.

Bastion didn't answer right away, and I could tell he was on guard, but the handsome soldier nodded and smiled back.

"I'm quite well your majesty," he replied, "it's too bad we have to visit the Roostians under such erroneous circumstances."

I nodded, agreeing with him wholeheartedly.

"Indeed," I said, "I'm sure they're feeling the same exact way."

He grinned at me again, fully aware that I didn't ask him to sit in my carriage for such small talk. I chuckled a little myself at his growing defensive posture.

"Come come now, you needn't be nervous," I said finally, "you've spoken with your queen before."

This time he chuckled and raised his brows casually.

"That's true my lady, but again, never under such erroneous circumstances," he replied.

Now I raised a brow.

"Are you speaking of the Roostian royal family, or your friendship with Master Link?" I inquired, stopping with the evasiveness.

He chuckled once more and looked away.

"The royals of course," he stated.

I interlaced my fingers together.

You won't get off the subject that easily my dear, I thought.

"Well then, I must inform you that your statement is false," I said. "We've spoken under much more grave circumstances. Did you happen to forget about Zant?"

Bastion laughed once again, but then shook his head.

"Of course not my lady," he replied, "I was assuming you meant more recent times."

I leaned forward a little.

"You know what they say about individuals who assume," I half joked, but then gave him a long once over. "And I inquire of you now, how long do you want to prolong this deflection? An hour? Two hours? Several more minutes?" I asked, looking him straight in the eyes. "When are you going to stop pretending and tell me what's going on between you and Master Link?"

The smile on the handsome soldier's face faded a little. Bastion then looked down at his hands and sighed. He didn't look defeated, but he knew he was going to have to come clean sooner or later.

"There's nothing to tell your majesty," he replied.

I groaned slightly.

I was getting tired of the runaround.

"Enough with the evasiveness Bastion," I said with a slightly more stern voice, "I want the truth, and I want it right now. What's going on? Why did Master Link grab your collar? What had him so upset?"

The young soldier was quiet for a moment, almost as if he were milling my words through his head. After a few seconds, having found a solution to his quandary, he then took in a deep breath.

"He... he was upset with me about something," he said finally.

That was obvious, I wasn't in the mood for vague inclinations.

"I'm aware of that," I said, "what was he upset about?"

Bastion hesitated again, and grew silent for awhile. I wasn't going to be deflected.

Don't let up, I told myself.

"Well Master Bastion?" I asked, after a few seconds.

He sighed again and finally looked over at me once more.

"Fine, it was something regarding you," he divulged.

I inadvertently felt my cheeks blush.

I wasn't expecting that.

"Me?" I repeated surprised.

He looked away once again.

"He... he made an inappropriate comment about you, and I didn't take too kindly of it, " he went on.

I was even more surprised at hearing this.

What in Hylia's dear name could he have said that would precipitate a reaction like that? I wondered.

"What... what did he say?" I verbalized.

Again, Bastion grew silent, but he kept it brief.

"I'd rather not repeat it," he said, "it's soldiers talk my lady. It isn't meant for a woman's ears."

I felt myself blush more.

"Soldiers talk?" I repeated.

He nodded, looking very serious.

"Some things aren't meant to be shared," he replied frankly.

I blushed even more.

Oh... I thought, it was that kind of comment. No wonder he was so ardent with the way he was kissing me earlier. He must have been speaking about this before hand with Bastion.

I suddenly felt nervous and stroked a lock of hair behind my ears.

"I-I see," I stammered uneasily, "well, I guess you're right if that is the case."

The young soldier only nodded.

"Yes, your majesty," he said.

Another silence ensued us. It was thoughtful, but cumbersome. I only mentioned that because Bastion tilted his head a little and grinned at me after a few moments. I had a feeling with the way the smile was creeping across his face that he was going to ask me something related to Master Link.

He cleared his throat before he spoke.

"Can I ask you something your majesty?" he inquired.

Here it comes, I thought.

I gave him my full undivided attention anyway.

"Yes, of course," I replied.

His grin widened to a smile.

"Please don't think me presumptuous, but are you... in love with Master Link?" he asked.

I felt my heart stop for a second.

I wasn't expecting him to be so forthcoming.

"Excuse me?" I tried to circumvent, however, he wasn't taking the bait.

He chuckled at my question.

"Are you in love with Master Link?" he repeated with more clarity.

I felt a sudden whiff of perspiration seed my brow. It wasn't like me to show my nerves in front of anyone, but when it came to Master Link, I was like a puddle of mush. I looked away and tried to collect myself.

"I don't know what you mean," I said.

Bastion was quiet once again. I had a feeling he was studying me.

"Excuse me your majesty," he said, "but you know exactly what I mean."

I looked at him shocked.

"Now see here good sir," I started, "have you forgotten to whom you are speaking? I happen to be your queen. You had better learn to mind your tongue."

Even with my stern speech his smile never faded.

"Forgive me, as I meant no disrespect," he said, "but it seems to me and many others in your court that you are very fond of the young master. This is not to say there is anything wrong with you for feeling such, but your actions teeter on the romantic side when it comes to Master Link."

I felt my throat tighten, not wanting or expecting such honesty.

"Well... you are mistaken," I said stubbornly, "Master Link is nothing more than a good friend of mine."

I was sure Bastion didn't believe that. How could he? I was like an open book, I was so easily read.

There was another brief silence between us before Bastion broke it.

"You know your majesty, it's okay to be Hylian," he said all of a sudden, "no one would ever fault you for that."

I turned back to look at him.

"I beg your pardon?" I said in reply.

Bastion laughed again.

"It's okay to let your heart love someone else," he said bluntly, "I believe you've been in the role of protector and sovereign of Hyrule for so long that you don't know how to let someone else do those things for you, protect you, love and adore you. If I may be so bold to say so my lady."

I raised a brow.

If you may be so bold? I thought. You've already said it Master Bastion.

I looked down at my hands, knowing full well that he was right.

"I... I appreciate the candor good sir," was all I could think to reply.

Once again, Bastion looked away and out the window, and when he had done so I glanced over at him. It wasn't anything other than a passing look. I was trying to keep my stern stubborn front, but that proved difficult when a strange familiarity came over me. I had no idea why, but for a moment he reminded me of someone very dear. Someone very important and consoling to me. It was very haunting, and a little frightening to be quite honest, as it was something I wasn't expecting. And it seemed the more I stared at him, the more familiar he became to me.

Your eyes are playing tricks on you Zelda, I told myself, and shook my head, what you're conjuring is impossible.

However, instead of letting it go, I decided to inquire of him anyway.

"Master Bastion," I called quietly, breaking the silence.

He turned from looking out the window to back at me.

"Yes, my lady," he replied.

I stared at him again, and that haunting familiarity never went away... those stunning blue eyes, that perfect dark hair, that inherent regal disposition.

What is making me feel this way? I wondered.

I swallowed hard and decided to make my feelings known, at least partially.

"Has anyone ever told you that you have a face that rivals royalty?" I asked with a smile, trying to circumvent what I really meant to say. "You're extraordinarily handsome Master Bastion."

He didn't reply right away, and didn't seem at all surprised by the question. His reaction only deepened my intrigue, he even stared at me hard for a moment, like he wanted to utter something, but wouldn't. I was hoping he would, but nothing ever came of it.

What's this all about? I wondered as my eyes searched his face.

Bastion's face then curved into a semi sad smile.

"Only all the time your majesty, by my lovely Lady Ashei," he said quietly.

He then turned from looking at me to the floor of the carriage. A serious expression came across his face in that moment, and I really wanted to understand it. What was that look for? Why did he look so sad so suddenly? I wanted the answers, but I never asked him those questions. Instead, I left him to his thoughts.

I hope your thoughts are giving you solace young master, I thought, with the way you serve this throne, you need them.

There was no further talk in those next few moments that lasted into hours, and it stayed that way all the way to Dragon Roost. From the look that stayed on Master Bastion's face, I had a feeling that was probably for the best.

~SSS~

Several Hours Later: Link's POV

After Zelda departed with Bastion, I took a moment to sit back and analyze my behavior. It didn't take a genius to see that I was putting all of the important things on the back saddle because of my selfishness: the riddle, the Roostians, and my responsibilities as head of the CIT. However, that was no longer acceptable. I was now completely focused on the clear and present dangers related to the kingdom. My love life was in a shambles true, but that should have stayed a secondary deterrent for the task at hand. Vincent and Morgana had suddenly disappeared from the city and I needed to know why. It was a very real possibility that the Rue Morgues deciphered the riddles, and were now on their way to their objective. Maybe even the mirror. I was aware that one of the locations was the Cave of Ordeals. However, before I set out after them, it was imperative that I decoded the second riddle for the other location first. With the queen now gone, this allayed a window of opportunity for me to move freely. Currently, I was in the royal library. I still had access to it whether the queen was present or not, and I was reading from the book, The Secret Mysteries of All the Ages. The text was opened to the page where the riddles resided, and I was starting to make progress.

Funiculus triplex difficile nonestscissum est medium... sed cumfatum

est lieiatum in statera logicam erit askew

The encryption itself was a disambiguation of its true meaning, the latter possibly had more significance than the fore. The reason for that conjecture was how the last part encoded '... when fate is threaded in the balance, the logic will askew...' askew from what? From whatever this 'threefold cord' was supposed to be apparently. A three fold cord was a triple bonded roped made by both blacksmiths and weavers to ensure a tighter, more secure fortification when carrying items. In the case of this riddle, I was sure the cord represented two things: a referencing of something literal, like a rope to climb into or onto something, and also a referencing of something symbolic, especially considering a greater significance was focused on to the 'logic askew' phrase at the end.

In the folklore of ancient Hyrule, there was an old eastern tale called "The Red Strings of Fate". In that story, it told the tale of three individuals forever bonded together by a red thread. The thread was figurative in that it symbolized how each of the individual's lives was forever interconnected by fate. The color red was a descriptive feature that represented the sacrifices of that fate. The string was also said to symbolize that no matter what, the bond could never be broken. I paused for a moment and thought about that.

I remember only a few short months ago when I was going over the history of Hyrule, I read a quote where Demise told the Hero of Skies this:

"Those like you… Those who share the blood of the goddess and the spirit of the hero…

They are eternally bound to this curse. An incarnation of my hatred shall ever follow your kind,

dooming them to wander a blood-soaked sea of darkness for all time!"

Throughout the years, this prophecy, so to speak, had come true. No matter what was going on or who the conflict was with, there was always three distinct individuals involved: the man who possessed the spirit of the hero, the incarnation of Demise's hatred, and the descendant of the goddess. It was obvious the riddle was talking about the bond of these three people. The Triforce of Courage, Wisdom, and Power solidified that point. It was made all the more apparent by the royal family's bloody history and the intense hatred they incurred because of it. However, how did knowing all this 'askew' the original logic of the code? What was the fine piece I was missing? I went back to the riddle and looked at that last part again, thinking something would manifest itself if I stared at it long enough.

Come on Link, think, I told myself.

I started entertaining another theory. The 'threefold chord' of the Triforce could not easily be broken in two because all three parts were necessary for balance in the kingdom. They were forever bonded. The only way 'logic' was to 'askew' from this was if fate intervened in some strange way. Fate being the idea that no matter what path a person chose, he or she couldn't deviate from its course. The Triforce of Power may have been the 'askewed' logic in this case. The reason for that inference was because it was always given to an individual who manifested the spirit of wanting absolute power. That coveted absolution deviated from the original purpose of creating balance in Hyrule. In short, it was the defining attribute of who that person was: Demise, Ganondorf, Zant, were all proofs of that. So, part of this riddle dealt with whoever was supposed to represent this aspect of the Triforce of Power. Morgana and Vincent were clearly on their way to seeing this objective, and it also clarified why all those other creatures kept referencing what they considered Hyrule's 'true master'.

I was getting close, but I knew there was something else missing. This riddle was not simply pointing to the resurrection of a great evil, but also to where to find that great evil. Where in Hyrule was a place that represented the 'red strings of fate'? There had to have been a reserve somewhere that had such a schematic. I had several geographical scrolls and books on typography laid out in front of me. After going over several of them carefully, I found that over the course of the years the landscape of Hyrule had changed. Ancient Hyrule had a much different look than the Hyrule of today, particularly the area of Faron Woods.

Faron Woods was right in my own backyard, however, the ancient Faron Woods was different... very different from my own personal dwellings there. I took note of an area on the map that had once been accessible, but was now siphoned off. On the more recent map it was a heavily foliaged, fern dense forest, where the overgrowth of the trees took precedent over the trails once traveled there. Or... whoever drew these new maps wanted everyone to think that. On the old map, the landscape wasn't like that at all. On the old map, there was a waterfall coming from the bluffs of an overpass. On the old map, there was a temple that resided in that same area next to that waterfall. Interestingly enough that temple's name was: The Ancient Cistern. If there was nothing to hide, why did the calligrapher take so much effort to make it look like nothing was ever there? What was being hidden there that no one wanted to be found?

I looked at the old map again.

"The Ancient Cistern," I whispered aloud to myself.

The more I looked at it, the more solidified it became.

That had to be it.

I tapped on the text.

"Let's see what skewed logic you're hiding," I said.

With that, I got up from the table, put the scrolls and book away, then headed out of the library. I had the best lead I had in months, and I needed to investigate it. My only hope was that Vincent and Morgana hadn't figured it out first. These thoughts swirled through my head as I left the library behind and headed back to the Situation Room.

I had some preparations to make.

~SSS~

Dawn of the Following Day, Dragon Roost: Zelda's POV

There was a gentle tap on my hand, and my eyes opened immediately. My personal escort Bastion was grinning at me and nodded towards the carriage door.

"We're here your majesty," he said softly.

I was mildly surprised at that revelation, realizing I dozed off for most of the trip. Apparently, I wasn't getting as much sleep as I thought, but with all that was going on, I shouldn't have been too surprised at that fact. I sat up and tried to make myself look presentable, I was probably a mess. I stroked my hand over my braided hair, and fixed the skirts of my dress. Again, Master Bastion just grinned at me.

"You look magnificent my lady," he half joked.

I grinned myself at that and appreciated his good nature. A nice hot bath in a hot spring was what I needed, and I was hoping that desire would come sooner rather than later.

"You're starting to sound like a certain young hero I know," I joked myself.

Bastion chuckled, then offered his hand.

"That's unfortunate," he said, then changed the subject, "shall we?"

Before I could answer, the door to my carriage abruptly opened. I was welcomed to beautiful, but harsh sunlight. I instantly raised my arm to guard my eyes against the sensorial shock, but it was to no avail. After witnessing the radiant dawn, I stood up and got out of the carriage without Bastion's help. When I disembarked, I was reminded once again why I considered Dragon Roost an unspoken eighth wonder of the Hylian world. Emiry Tower at the center of the palace shined like a beacon of light in the morning sun. It left me with a silent sense of awe.

It's truly a marvel, I thought, such sights should be magnificent everywhere.

There were seven Hylian wonders that were written about, painted about, and sung about more than anything else. They were: Hyrule Castle, The Sacred Realm, The Triforce, The Master Sword, The Tower of Hylia, The Great Deku Tree, and the Temple of Time now hidden somewhere in a forest of Hyrule Field. To that list I liked to add my own eighth wonder, and that was the palace of Dragon Roost. I couldn't begin to explain the exquisite detail and splendor of its halls. Maybe it was the fact that the entire palace was carved out of the side of a mountain and bathed in marble. Maybe it was the reality that some of the rooms were made of pure precious stones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. Maybe it was the fact that it was the only place in Hyrule where active dragon cultivation still took place. Maybe it was the luxurious hot springs found readily throughout each of the private rooms of the nobles, and even sparingly on the mountainsides for the peasants. There were so many things that made Dragon Roost a marvel. It was no wonder why Elbourne felt so proud to live there, anyone would. However, it still dwarfed in comparison to the whole of Hyrule, but there was still a great deal of pride to be had as a citizen of Dragon Roost.

To add to the societal progression, there were also budding provinces starting to sprout from the small kingdom to the surrounding territories. I normally didn't take issue with citizen expansion, however, the territories were getting a little too close to Goron Mines for my comfort. The line teetering on invasion had not yet been crossed, but I was aware that if the Roostians didn't keep their ambitions in check, there was going to be a problem... a very serious problem. I was hoping it wouldn't have to come to that, as tension was already present between both kingdoms, but sooner or later there was going to be a political fallout if such actions continued unchecked. I tried not to think of that in the here and now, especially with Constance's life being threatened, but that was proving difficult. Anyway, I shook my head of my thoughts and started down the narrow cobblestone walkway. I was followed by Master Bastion, and was greeted by a small contingency of guards and messengers from Dragon Roost. The representative of that contingency stepped forward and bowed.

"I wish it were better circumstances their majesties could meet you under my lady," the courtier started, "but his majesty King Xavier and his highness Prince Elbourne have not left Queen Constance's side since she was attacked. A twenty-four hour guard has been put in place for her safety, and she hasn't been left alone day or night since the attack, otherwise both men would have been here to greet you their selves."

I immediately fanned the latter concern off.

"There's no need to worry about formalities," I stated. "The important thing is that her majesty is safe. If they will allow it, I would like to visit the queen at the earliest convenience, would you take me to them when the time comes?"

The courtier nodded.

"Of course," he said, "but I was told to make sure your comforts were taken care of first. I must escort you to your room and be certain you have everything you need before you see her majesty, that was a dictate from his highness himself."

I looked at the messenger surprised, and bit my lower lip slightly at hearing that.

"A dictate from his highness?" I repeated.

The courtier nodded again.

"Yes my lady," he replied.

I sighed and shook my head.

"That should be the last of your or his worries right now," I said.

The messenger stood his ground.

"Please your majesty," he said, "you're a queen too, and we need to make sure your safety and comfort is a priority." He paused for a moment, then added, "You know how his highness gets when his orders aren't carried out. Please my lady," he explained, "if for anything, do it for the sake of peace."

I completely understood where the servant was coming from. If Elbourne found out I wasn't being tended to the way he saw fit, he would go on a tyrannical rampage. The only ones who would suffer from it would be the servants, and they were just trying to do what was asked of them. It wouldn't matter if I mandated the request or not. I sighed, not wanting to cause any discord.

Elbourne... I thought.

I quickly made a minute decision, and decided to listen to the courtier.

"You speak reasonably good sir, and thank you," was all I said in reply, then looked beyond him, "please, lead the way."

The courtier's face shown with an expression of relief before he nodded, bowed, and gestured for me to go ahead of him.

"This way my lady," he said.

With the immediate matter resolved, everyone in my escort set off with me. However, when we were passing the lower barracks, many of the men were drawing back and breaking off to be shown to the servants quarters. Bastion too was about to follow them, but I stopped him. He looked confused at my request for a moment, but didn't say anything regarding it. When we got closer to our objective, my private residence, Master Bastion's puzzlement only heightened. I, however, remained silent, I wanted it that way until I could properly explain things to him when we were alone. When we got to my quarters, I was shown into a beautiful, white marble, and sapphire jeweled room. The bed was carved directly from the wall and was accentuated with white silk and aqua blue silk sheets. The room panned a view to the central courtyard in the middle of the town, but also had one of the best views of the sunrise. The terrace led out to an open air hot spring. It bubbled and gurgled in the morning sunlight. I often told Elbourne that this was my favorite room in the palace, he must have taken that in consideration when he decided lodging for me. Bastion looked around in slight awe, but his confusion never left. He was no doubt still wondering why he wasn't with the other men. I would give him an answer soon enough.

"Please call for me when you are ready to see their majesties my lady," the courtier said at the door.

I nodded my reply.

"Of course," I said, "and thank you for your hospitality. Please convey to his majesty and his highness, that I'm more than comfortable."

The courtier looked at me gratefully.

"Indeed I will," he said with a bow.

With that, the servant closed the door, and I turned to face a still puzzled Master Bastion. He didn't say anything to me right away nor I to him. In fact, I walked past him and sat down at the white marble table stationed at the center of the room to rest my aching feet, the slippers I was wearing were too small apparently. Even still, the young soldier followed after me, stood catty corner from where I was sitting, and was no doubt about to address the apparent giant lizalfos in the room. I was just waiting for it.

"Uh..." he started finally, "permission to speak my lady?"

I didn't answer immediately.

"Why?" I asked, which only heightened his intrigue.

He looked at me surprised.

"I don't mean to impose, but I have a question," he stated.

I already knew what he was going to ask. I sighed and raised my hand to signify my approval.

"Fine, permission granted soldier," I said finally.

The young master gave me a brief once over before he spoke.

"My lady..." he trailed, "was it your intention to have me stay in the same room as you while we lodged here?"

I didn't look at him, and admired the sunrise creeping over the fiery mountains in the distance.

"For now yes," I said, "I'll let you know when you can retire with the rest of the men."

He still looked confused and raised a brow. Apparently, my explanation wasn't good enough for him.

"May I ask why your majesty?" he inquired. "It hardly seems appropriate considering the circumstances."

I smirked slightly at his words, feeling a fleeting sense of deja vu at his words, and rubbed the back of my neck, it was sore from the long journey.

"Not as inappropriate as a certain prince coming in here in the middle of the night to try who knows what," I replied with caution. "I'm aware that you staying in the same room as I may seem like an ill advised order as of now, but I know how Prince Elbourne works. Sooner or later he will try to see me alone. I can't risk that kind of scandal when something so important is happening both personally and politically here in Dragon Roost. As it stands, and until I speak with the dragon prince, you will stay with me."

Master Bastion looked at me mildly stunned.

"But your majesty, couldn't I-" he tried.

I wasn't having any rebuttals.

"The decision has been made," I interrupted, "I am comfortable Master Bastion, I suggest you get comfortable as well, and you needn't worry. I won't ask you to do anything unpleasant."

That didn't ease his mind, but he didn't have much of a reply anyway. He realized he was stuck.

He sighed.

"I understand my lady," he replied.

It was then he finally undid the heavy breastplate he was wearing and placed it on the floor. Afterwards, he headed to the door and fanned for a guard standing by. The guard immediately approached.

"Yes sir?" the soldier asked.

Bastion wasted no time.

"I have been designated Queen Zelda's private guard while she stays here in Dragon Roost," he explained, "could you please have both her trunks and my trunk brought here within the next half hour? The queen needs to freshen up before she sees their majesties."

The guard quickly bowed.

"As you say my lord," he replied, then went to carry out the request.

Bastion watched after him for a moment, then came back to the room and closed the door.

"I just sent for a soldier to get your things my lady," he said, even though I heard everything. "I'll also make sure you have a servant wench at your disposal to help you with your personal grooming."

I was quite surprised at how quickly he took control of the situation, but seeing as that was life for a soldier, it must have been second nature.

"Thank you," I replied.

Bastion bowed, and a serious look spread across his handsome face.

"Now if you excuse me your majesty, I must check on the security measures put in place for your safety," he said. "It would be best in the mean time that you bathe and freshen up before you see the royals. This is only my suggestion, you are free to do what you see fit."

I grinned at his cautionary words.

"I understand, and thank you again good sir," I replied.

With that, Bastion bowed once more and headed out the door. I looked over my shoulder once it closed, then stood up and sighed at the continuing sunrise. Something about all this sudden hoopla didn't make sense. Why would anyone want to hurt Queen Constance? King Xavier had no real enemies, unless there was a coup trying to take place within his court. However, I quickly dismissed that, as Xavier diminished court proceedings in such proximity to him years ago, and with the way the nobles plotted and schemed, I completely understood why. In a way, it made me have a sense of admiration for him.

There is something to ruling for a long time, I perceived.

I stood up from the table and walked over to the terrace overlooking the perfectly bubbling and gurgling hot spring. The multiple colors of green, red, and yellow showcased the infused mineralization, and was no doubt ordered as additives to make me more comfortable. Again, that must have been an 'Elbourne' detail. That man always thought of the small details when it came to hospitality. I looked down at the luxurious spring and yearned for a hot bath, but knew I couldn't do so until my trunks arrived. I was just going to have to wait. However, as I walked from the terrace back to the room, I took note of something that escaped my previous attention. A white silk robe and a silk towel was laid across the aqua blue and marble bedding. I almost felt my mouth drop a little at having missed that, but wasn't too surprised. I knew it had been some years since I visited the Roostians formally, but they certainly knew how to make me feel welcome. It was very kind of Elbourne to think of my comfort when his mind was so preoccupied with other more serious concerns.

He did all this while still worrying about his mother, I thought, oh Elbourne.

I thought about it for only a moment and decided not to dawdle. I undressed quickly and headed into the hot spring. I spent the next several minutes in bliss, but was aware I couldn't prolong my bath due to the nature of my visit. I just needed to freshen up so I was presentable, afterwards I got out and robed. I then went back to the white marble table at the center of the room and sat down. I ran a hand through my long dark hair and contemplated the gravity of this situation while I sat back and watched the sunrise once more.

Whatever is going on here, I thought, I just hope I can be of some help to their majesties.

I kept my eyes on the illuminated horizon.

"Link..." I whispered to myself, "I could certainly use a bit of your confidence right now."

~SSS~

Later That Day, Dragon Roost: Zelda's POV

With Bastion gone to take care of some necessary business, I decided it was time I went to see the royals. I eyed myself momentarily in the mirror to make sure I looked presentable. The light green gown was flowing, simple but elegant, and flattered my slender body and dark hair. In short, the way I looked was fine. Anyway, with my appearance accounted for, I went to the door where one of my guards was standing watch. I knew it was customary for the Roostians to have their own guards do the duty that my men were doing. However, with Constance's safety on the line, I didn't want the Roostian soldiers to be stretched too thin. I was sure Elbourne was making these poor men do double and even triple shifts already. When I opened the door, my guard was already anticipating my command.

"What can I do for you my lady?" he asked.

I looked past him down the long marble and jade hall leading to the queen's chamber.

"I would like to see their majesties now," I stated, "I think it's been long enough."

The guard bowed and he immediately turned to lead the way. I followed after him, and after coming to a stop at Constance's door, my escort knocked on the scaffolding for me. It took a moment, but soon after a voice called from the other side.

"Who goes there?" the messenger asked.

My guard cleared his throat.

"Her majesty Queen Zelda requests an audience with her majesty Queen Constance," he answered back.

Before the other messenger could say a word, another male voice sounded.

"Let her in," he ordered.

It was Elbourne.

I raised a brow at the sound of his voice.

He really hasn't left her side since this incident has happened, I thought.

A few seconds later, the door opened and an exhausted looking courtier greeted us. I was mildly shocked at his haggard and worn appearance. My previous assumption was right, the man's eyes were red and sunken in, like he hadn't had sleep in days. I was aware Elbourne was worried about the safety of his mother, but tiring everyone out because of it was not the way to properly handle it. Elbourne knew as well as anyone that a tired person was a useless person, and at the end of the day such measures would be be counter intuitive to his purposes. However, now wasn't the time for such talk. When the time came for it, I would bring this matter to Xavier and Elbourne's attention. Until then, I wanted to make sure Constance was alright, I was sure she was still shaken up after the attempt on her life the other day. However, even with that, there was still a bit of perplexity embedded in it. Something else had to be behind this.

I better make sure my investigative lenses are on, I thought. My grandfather said it best when he stated a person had to look beyond what was obvious.

I would heed my grandfather's words today.

I walked in, made sure to smile, and gave an empathetic look to the man who opened the door. He must have taken note of the glint in my eye and looked hopeful for a moment. I really did feel for him, he looked beyond tired, but he didn't need to worry, I was going to address his concerns. Afterwards, he bowed and was dismissed per protocol. When a sovereign from a different nation presented his or her self, it was customary for all the servants to vacate the premises in the event of confidential talk. It was no secret that servants gossiped in amongst themselves, my Lydia was proof of that. Most probably believed it was the lighter aspect of their occupation. But even still, there was no use giving them fodder if it weren't necessary.

Anyway, stationed at the far left wall of the room was a gold and marble framed bed, carved directly from the mountainside much like my own bed. It was covered in silken sheets and white satin pillows. Constance's chamber was a marvel in it self because it was basically made of pure gold. However, it wasn't quite the way individuals initially imagined it. The room wasn't overlaid with gold, it was embedded with gold.

There was a difference.

It was so magnificent, an explanation was in order.

Over laying was a technique well known to the dragon masters. It was the taking of a metal object or ore, and casting it into piping hot liquid gold until the element melded all the way around it. Afterwards, the plated gold was blast chilled in water to set it in place. On the other end of the spectrum, there was the natural phenomenon of embedding. Embedding was the organic construct of a metal inside of a mountain where the element was formed. The reason embedded metals in Dragon Roost resembled overlaid ones was because of the constant fires present in the volcanoes. Death Mountain's ever present temperature speeds up the purification process of normal metallurgy. The liquefaction and alloy processing of those buried metals took place before the building of the palace many years ago, giving the internal structures a look of overlaid gold. It was truly amazing how the palace garnered it's own natural beauty. However, I wasn't there to discuss Dragon Roost architecture. I was there to see about the queen.

Laying comfortably underneath the bed of covers was Constance. She looked lovely, dressed in a simple long white night gown, similar to the one I wore to bed, and her beautiful dark brown hair was undone and resting on the pillows beneath her head. Her crystal green eyes shined from the natural light in the room, and as soon as she caught sight of me she sat up and smiled. I smiled back, and didn't see any evidence of a scratch on her. That was a relief.

Well, they did say an 'attempt', it would be foolish to think presumptuously, I thought.

"My darling Zelda," she greeted me happily, "I'm so glad to see you."

I couldn't help but feel touched at her natural endearing nature. She was genuinely one of the kindest women I knew.

"Not as glad as I to see you Queen Constance my dear," I said and came over to where she was near her son Elbourne.

Xavier and Elbourne were both propped on both sides of the bed, looking serious and angry all at the same time. I couldn't blame them in this regard, and I wasn't going to try and reassure them that their feelings were unfounded. Someone had just attempted to kill their queen. Elbourne didn't say anything to me as I stood next to him, but he did glance at me briefly, and from what I could tell, he seemed a little more at ease. I knew this was an inappropriate time to mention so, but the dragon prince looked exceptionally handsome standing over his mother with that serious expression on his face. He was dressed in his brown hunting pants and a white open collar shirt. His normally perfect hair was still perfect, just not in its usual slicked back fashion. He was almost a different man when it came to the welfare of his mother. Xavier on the other hand, was seated in a large brown suede wrought iron chair stationed at his wife's bedside. His hazel eyes looked thoughtful, but he wasn't the type of man that could be read easily. He wasn't like his son in that regard, he didn't keep his feelings on his sleeve. Xavier was a prudent man, and he treated each situation accordingly.

There was a brief silence from Constance's and my initial greeting, but soon she broke it.

"All is well in Hyrule?" she continued on.

I nodded, but didn't want her focus to be on that.

"Everything is fine," I reassured, then added, "how are you?"

Constance was going to answer, but her son interrupted her instead.

"Stubborn and pigheaded as always," Elbourne said upset, "I insist that she stays where people can protect her, but she wants to do otherwise."

I grinned at his stern assessment of his mother, knowing it was true. In many ways, I was a great deal like Constance, and that possibly was because she was so much like my mother.

However, her chastisement didn't end there, Xavier's words were no different. "He's right," he agreed, "this woman acts as though it were another day in the garden park. This isn't a tea party my love."

I chuckled lightly at hearing that, but then shook my head.

These men need to understand we aren't fragile creatures, I thought, we have just as much gusto as them.

The dragon queen was growing tired of this lecturing. "Well, what am I suppose to do?" she insisted. "Quiver in fear until the foolhardy assassin gets his mark? don't be ridiculous Xavier."

I saw her point, but she shouldn't have been so cavalier about this either, it was a serious matter. Someone tried to kill her.

"I understand where you are coming from Constance, more than you can imagine quite frankly," I said, "but your family has some stock in their words. You need to consider your safety a little more than you are."

Constance looked at me indignantly just then. "You too Zelda?"

I chuckled again, and that even got a grin and a smile from her son and husband.

"Yes, I'm afraid," I said, "me too."

Constance gave an exaggerated sigh and fell back onto her pillows dramatically. "I am at a loss then."

I shook my head and grinned, forgetting how charming and funny she could be. Constance really was the glue in keeping this family together. I then looked over at Elbourne who was trying to remain upset, but now found that that was proving difficult. There was a grin spread across his handsome face, and he looked even more calm than before. He loved his mother too much to stay upset at her. I remember him saying just the other night he hadn't spoken to her in the past several weeks before this incident. Hopefully, this made him see that such selfish thinking was of no benefit to anybody. What if she had been kidnapped? What if she had died? What if he wasn't garnered the opportunity he had now? What would he have to say for himself then? Elbourne would have been an emotional and mental wreck if anything happened to his mother. Instead of being worried about his pride, perhaps now he would see things for what they really were and focus on the more important things.

I looked over at Xavier just then.

"Do you have any leads in who may have done this?" I asked, changing the subject.

He shook his head and sighed. "Unfortunately, no," he said.

I was trying to make sense of it all like the rest of them.

"Why would someone want to do such a thing?" I inquired.

I wasn't expecting much of an answer because the reasons for these situations was usually very simple. The usual consensus was killers killed for power. However, in this case, power didn't seem to be the end goal. If a traitor was vying for the throne of Dragon Roost, why go after the queen? Why not the king, or the prince for that matter? They were the individuals who had the greatest stakes in the kingdom. No, the attempt was for something else. This situation had diversion written all over it, but... diversion from what? Why would they choose now above all times to act?

There must be a clue we're all overlooking, I thought, a reasoning we hadn't yet considered.

We were all silent after my rhetorical question, but Constance must have seen the look of inquiry in my eyes because she decided to address it. "What do you think?" she asked me suddenly.

I looked at her mildly surprised. I found that to be an odd question.

"I don't know what to think to be quite honest," I stated, "to me it doesn't make sense why the assassin went after you."

Constance nodded at my words. "I was thinking the same thing," she said, then paused for a moment as if she were preparing to say something else. "My son and husband think I'm crazy for uttering what I'm about to say to you, but this is why I think I was targeted-" she started.

Elbourne immediately rolled his eyes and groaned. "Mother you're starting to sound like the drunk conspiracy theorists who peddle around town!" he interrupted.

I looked at the prince surprised. He hadn't even allowed her the opportunity to finish, so I wasn't sure where all his annoyance with her was coming from. Unless, she had spoken to them about this scenario already, which was obviously the case.

At least allow her the opportunity to finish Elbourne, I thought.

I cleared my throat in preparation to speak.

"If you don't mind," I said politely to the dragon prince, "I'd like to hear what she has to say. Your mother may have a greater insight than you're giving her credit for."

Elbourne obviously didn't want to hear that and groaned again, then looked away. "Unbelievable," he muttered, "now two of them."

I ignored him and gave Constance my full undivided attention. What she said may have had some merit.

"Please continue my lady," I cued.

Constance glanced over at her son who was still looking away, and decided to just give her point of view anyway. "Here's what I think," she started, "I think there was an attempt on my life to purposely postpone the upcoming Dragon Gala."

I nodded at her words and waited for her to go on. However, when she didn't I found myself a little disappointed. I raised a brow quizzically.

"Is... is that all your majesty?" I asked.

Constance nodded and must have seen the look of doubt on my face, then decided to go on. "Before you discount anything I'm saying, hear me out," she reasoned.

I hesitated for a moment and glanced again over at her son and husband who were neither agreeing or disagreeing with her words. Right now, they were both silent. I wasn't sure what to make of it, however, I went with listening to her. At this point, what harm could it do?

"Very well, I shall hear you out," I replied.

Constance sat up and wrapped her arms around her knees and began. "The lunar luminaries are nearing the time of the crystalline moon," she started, "strange things have always happened on that moon and-"

Xavier's disposition immediately perked at hearing that. "Excuse me my dear, what moon did you say?"

I and everyone looked at the king's renewed interest in surprise. Apparently, Constance's words weren't ringing on deaf ears.

"The crystalline moon," she repeated, "I was told that it was coming up in three weeks. Whoever tried to kill me must have been privy to such knowledge, because... because..." she paused for a moment and stared down at her hands, "well, I've never shared this with anyone, but there was something I kept from all of you regarding this."

Everyone got quiet. A pin drop could be heard with how deafening the silence was immediately.

"You... kept something from us?" Xavier continued quietly.

Constance didn't look at her husband. "Yes," she replied.

Elbourne started tapping his foot impatiently. "Well," he pressed, "what is it? We need to know."

I didn't say anything. This was in no way my place to pressure the queen, however, I was as eager as the other two to know what she was intending to say.

Come on Constance, I thought, out with it already.

The dragon queen took in a deep breath then spoke. "There... there was a note tied to the projectile saying that the gala was not to take place until three weeks from now," she divulged.

Both Elbourne and Xavier looked at her shocked. I wasn't going to lie, I surprised as well.

"Why are you telling us this just now?" Elbourne demanded.

Xavier was a lot more subdued, but I could tell he too was irritated with her keeping this information from them. "Constance, why would you think to keep this to yourself?" he inquired. "This is very grave."

The dragon queen nodded. "I'm sorry, but I didn't know what to make of it," she replied, "it was only after I got clarification that the timing on the demand directly coincided with what I was told about the timing of the luminaries."

Xavier paused for a long moment and raised a brow at her words. "Who told you about the crystalline moon?" he asked all of a sudden.

I raised a brow myself after that utterance.

That's an odd question, I thought, but say anything.

There was another brief, but thoughtful silence.

Constance, for a change, was hesitant to reply. "I don't know what you mean," she said.

I had to admit, that wasn't a clever comeback, and now she looked suspicious. Suspicious about what I didn't know, but she definitely cast a veil of doubt over her once forthcoming words. Even Elbourne was concerned now.

"Come on mother," he said, "you can't expect anyone to believe you with you uttering things like that. Just tell us who told you about the information."

Constance hesitated again, and for some strange reason, she cut her eyes from her son and groaned slightly. I was puzzled by her abrupt change in behavior, as it didn't make sense to me. She was not making things better for herself. I narrowed my eyes slightly.

She's hiding something, I realized, and from how she's acting, it must be something big.

Xavier now narrowed his eyes, I could tell he was trying to hide his sudden displeasure. "The subject of the crystalline moon isn't just public knowledge my love, and you kept consistently saying you were 'told' by someone about this subject," he said sensibly. "I would just like to know who this someone is."

Again, Constance paused before she answered her husband. Then suddenly, she stared Xavier straight in his eyes... just stared at him. She almost looked like she hated him, and that was something I didn't understand. What was going on? This wasn't making any sense to me, Constance had better political clout than this. To be honest, she was acting like a guilty senseless woman.

"Did I say 'told'?" she said suddenly. "I meant I read about the moon, I'm sorry, that was my miscommunication. A simple problem with semantics and use of words my dear."

With the way she was coming off, I wasn't sure that was so, but it wasn't my place to call her out such things. However, I could tell Xavier and Elbourne felt the same way as I.

Xavier was quiet for a long time before answering. "Semantics?" he repeated.

He obviously didn't believe her, but when I shifted my gaze back to Constance, she looked like she didn't care. However, she did appear a little nervous now.

"Yes," she said with a quiet confidence, "semantics."

The king was silent again. He stared at his wife hard, and that was when I knew something else was at play here. Xavier was no longer just considering his wife's safety, he was digging to find something else out. Had Constance gotten that information about the moon from her... lover? Is that why she knew what she knew? If so, was he still here in Dragon Roost? And since Xavier knew she was involved with another man, was that what he was really trying to procure from her just now? Is that why Constance suddenly got so defensive? Did she know her husband knew she was having an affair with someone else. All this was simply speculation, but it may have had some clout to it. It was made all the more reassuring when Xavier suddenly got up from his chair at the side of her bed. That cold hard gaze never left his eyes.

"I see," was all the king said in reply, he then looked over at me and forced a grin across his face, "your majesty, I'm afraid I must leave at this time, something very important has just come to my attention."

I had nothing to say in rebuttal. The metaphorical ledger lines were loud and clear. I just hoped nothing too untoward would come of it. I looked from the king to his queen once more and curtsied slightly.

"Of course my lord," I said as my reply, "please don't let me keep you."

Xavier's forced grin turned genuine for a moment. "Thank you my dear."

Elbourne however wasn't that easily swayed. "Father whatever it is, don't you think it can wait?" he demanded. "Minced words are hardly the time to leave your queen's side."

I wished at this time Elbourne's hand was in mine so I could squeeze it for him to shut up. He had a penchant for saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. this was obviously the wrong time.

Oh Elbourne, I thought.

However, Xavier didn't flinch. "You will learn one day Elbourne that a tempered tongue is sometimes better than a fiery one." With that, he turned his attention back to me. "Please make yourself comfortable, all the amenities of my house are at your disposal."

I curtsied slightly.

"Thank you my lord," I replied.

Soon after, the king left and everyone in the room was quiet. Elbourne was looking after the closed door in disgust, and Constance was now looking distant. She was obviously concerned with the way her husband reacted. I would be too considering the circumstances, but that wasn't for me to speak on. I looked between the two royals and tried to think of a way to break the monotony. I didn't like all the unnecessary tension, it did nothing for an already tense situation.

"My lady," I addressed the queen first, "perhaps his majesty said that to you for safety reasons. It's probably best not to ponder too deeply on the matter, you have other things to concern yourself with."

I wasn't sure my words were of any comfort to her, and she didn't seem to be listening to me.

"Perhaps," was all she said in reply, "thank you for being matter-of-fact. It's the best course of action in times like this."

I hesitated for a moment and was worried in how she said that. There was a significant silence between everyone in the room now. One where most people would find uncomfortable. Elbourne came and sat down on the bed next to her. He took his mother in a tight hug and took a deep breath against her hair. I couldn't help but smile at how much this sometimes selfish man could dote on his mother.

"Everything is going to be okay mother," he whispered, "we'll protect you."

That made his mother smile.

"I know you will my love," she replied.

Elbourne gave her another tight hug before he got up from the bed.

"I'll make sure to double the guard at every entrance," he reassured.

Constance stroked her son's cheek.

"Thank you Elbourne," she said.

With that, her son bowed and decided to take his leave. In fact, he decided it was time for me to take my leave as well as he grabbed hold of my wrist and pulled me in the opposing direction towards the door. His mother looked at him shocked.

"Elbourne, what are you doing? You know better than to treat her majesty-" she tried.

"Goodnight mother," he interrupted without heeding her words.

I managed to turn my head and look back at the queen before I was dragged away. I was only letting Elbourne get away with this because I knew his character. No one else could handle me in such a fashion.

"Goodnight my lady!" I called over my shoulder.

Afterwards, with my hand still gripped in Elbourne's, we left. When the doors to the queen's chamber opened, the guards all bowed and surprisingly, Master Bastion was waiting there for me. He looked at me surprised. His attention immediately went to Elbourne's and my interlocked hands.

"My lady!" he said of Elbourne's grip. "Are you alright?"

Before I could answer Elbourne circumvented. "What the hell are you doing here?" he demanded. "How dare you speak to royalty out of turn?"

Just when I thought Elbourne was making process he goes and does an Elbourne type thing, disrespects people unnecessarily. I closed my eyes and took in a deep sigh.

Now isn't the time for this, I thought.

Master Bastion looked from the prince to me in cool restraint, but I could tell the dragon prince was getting under his skin a little. "I'm here on her majesty's orders," he replied, "I'm her personal bodyguard while she stays here."

Elbourne scoffed and narrowed his eyes. "Personal bodyguard?" he repeated. "In Dragon Roost? Please, the man to ensure the queen's safety when she stays here is I, Elbourne son of Xavier. Stand aside!"

Bastion didn't back down. "I'm afraid I can't do that."

Elbourne narrowed his eyes in disbelief. "Who the hell do you think you're talking to?" he demanded. "I just gave you an order! I said stand aside!"

Master Bastion still didn't move and groaned in frustration, then looked from the prince to me. "Your majesty please..." he trailed, needing my support.

I could tell the young soldier was not in any mood for a tongue lashing by a spoiled prince, and I could understand that. The journey had been long and tiring, there were many other things Bastion was in charge of without just worrying about my safety. He was a tactical manager and head of security as well as commanding officer of my envoy. He was also no doubt missing his lady love Ashei. In short, the man worked very hard and he was trying to keep things civil. I should have interceded sooner than now, but I was letting the dragon prince have his way with the situation because of my sympathies for him. However, I couldn't allow that any longer. Elbourne would always make himself available at my beck and call, but he could also be a serious nuisance to everyone else. I wasn't going to do that to my men. I wanted Bastion to know he had my full support. I did ask the young master to assist me at great discomfort to himself, and he needed to know he had my backing. To show that, I pulled back from Elbourne's grip and stood erect for a moment.

At feeling that, Elbourne looked at me slightly surprised. "Your majesty..." he trailed himself.

I took in a deep breath and shook my head.

"I'm sorry your highness, but I'm afraid Master Bastion is right," I corrected. "I did mandate him as my personal guard and assistant. He has been a great help to me, and he's only following out my orders. Please try to understand his position."

Elbourne scoffed irritably. "Are you serious?" he demanded.

I nodded.

"Yes," I replied, "I am."

Elbourne grunted in contempt. "Why would I care about the position of a peasant?" he demanded of me.

I was trying to be adult about this, but it was obvious that Elbourne didn't see it the same way.

This is ridiculous, I thought.

I raised a brow, and realized I was going to have to be a little more authoritative than I initially surmised.

"You should care a great deal since without them we in the noble hierarchy wouldn't be able to enjoy life the way we do," I replied, it was then I found an impromptu opportunity to bring up the state of his people. "I think also too you might want to reevaluate how you treat your servants. These poor men look exhausted and have probably not had a decent nights rest since the attempt on her majesty."

Elbourne's mouth nearly dropped and Bastion suppressed a much wanted grin.

"No see here-" the dragon prince tried.

I held up my hand.

"I'm not saying this to get under your skin, or to discredit the gravity of this situation," I interrupted politely, "but you must understand a series of events from more than just one vantage point. The view from the top doesn't always allow a person to see the defects in a foundation, you would do well to remember that good sir." I then looked him straight in the eyes. "You need to treat your people with respect, even your servants."

Elbourne stared at me dumbfounded, I then turned my attention back to Master Bastion.

"Let's be on our way," I said without waiting for the dragon prince to reply.

Bastion looked from me to the prince, but didn't hesitate in my command. "As you wish my lady."

Afterwards, Bastion led the front and I followed after him. As we continued down the hall I turned my head slightly to look back at Elbourne who was staring hard after me. I knew this wasn't over, and I was well aware he was going to try something I wasn't expecting. In a way, I was actually looking forward to it. Elbourne had a spontaneousness like no man I knew... well, almost like no man I knew. Master Link shared that same impetuous spirit. All the while, Master Bastion caught on to what I was doing and inquired of it.

"All is well my lady?" he asked.

I wasn't sure that was a question I could give a definitive answer to.

I smiled at my escort.

I certainly hope so, I thought.

"For now," I replied, "yes."

I continued down the hall, wondering what was conjuring in that crazy mind of the dragon prince's. One thing was for sure, I would find out soon enough.

~SSS~

Three Hours After Midnight: Constance's POV

Constance stared at her gold encrusted ceiling and felt a minor twinge of panic. Something in her husband's eyes earlier that night alerted her to fact that he now knew more than he was initially letting on, and this wasn't the only evidence of it either. She did notice recently Xavier being more attentive to her, even coming to her room after supper to talk intimately. However, the most suspicious and ironic action was when her husband came to her room only a few nights ago and made love to her. Constance at first didn't want to, but after being in her husband's arms and feeling him kiss her and touch her like he had when they first got married, she simply couldn't resist. Before that night, Xavier hadn't had sex with her in over a year. When it was over, she thought he was going to leave, but he surprised her in staying all night.

In any normal circumstance, Constance would have been ecstatic, she was finally getting her husband back. However, she knew there was more to Xavier than what he was letting on. He was a deep thinker and never acted without having a purpose behind it. So the real questions were: why did he come to her chambers the other night? Was it because he truly wanted her? Or, was he trying to procure something else? Did he have her best interests at heart? Or, was he warning her about something, perhaps telling her that he knew about Auru? And because Constance knew her husband so well, she immediately had her radars up. The dragon queen sat in her luxurious bed, wondering if Xavier knew the truth, the real truth. Did he find out about the affair? Did he somehow know that Auru was the man who alerted her on the information on the moon? He certainly wasn't acting coy with any information he knew. He subliminally wanted her to know that he was informed.

This is more than it seems, she thought, I have to warn Auru and tell him to leave immediately.

That was exactly what Constance was waiting to do. She cleverly had her way of communicating with her dear friend when he was in Dragon Roost. She simply put a red rose in the window seal when she wanted him to come to her. It always worked. However, it was extremely dangerous for him to proceed in such a way, but right now Constance felt it was necessary. She had to warn him of her husband's unorthodox actions. She just hoped Auru wasn't bitter towards her for breaking off their affair. When Auru came to see her the night of the incident, he shared some information with her regarding the crystalline moon. During that exchange, she noticed he was distant and brief, not at all like he was normally. He didn't even want to give her a hug. Their previous exchanges had been much different, with the both of them at least ending their meetings with a kiss. However, the dragon queen understood the added discrepancy. She just hoped it would be isolated to one little incident and nothing more.

A moment later, Constance heard some faint footsteps from the wall adjacent to her bed. She sat up when the sound got closer, but a little fainter. Soon, a tapestry was disturbed and the man she was expecting made his appearance. Auru walked over to where the dragon queen was, but Constance immediately jumped out of her bed and went to meet him. She held him tight when she embraced him, even though he didn't return it.

"Oh Auru," she whispered, and a couple of bittersweet tears filled her eyes.

It took him a moment, but Auru reluctantly hugged her back. He couldn't help it, he knew deep down he still loved her.

"Is everything okay?" he whispered, skipping the small talk. "Are you alright?"

Constance pulled back and sighed. She wiped her eyes, but didn't nod.

"I don't know," she said honestly.

Auru looked at her concerned.

"What do you mean by that?" he asked.

Constance took a brief walk about the room, then turned to face him. She did that to clear her head.

"I think Xavier knows about what happened between us," she said, getting straight to the point.

Auru paused, he looked uneasy, but not surprised.

"Elbourne told him?" he asked with a sigh.

Constance shook her head.

"I don't know," she said, "but he must have found out somehow. Xavier's been acting very out of the ordinary these past few weeks."

He took a step forward.

"How so?" Auru asked.

Constance shrugged, she didn't know where to begin with that.

"He comes to visit my chambers, he hasn't done that in almost a year," she explained, "he talks to me now, we discussed the schematic for the gala. It was very strange, because I thought he had gone over that with his consulate. He even came to me just the other night and made..." she stopped herself.

Auru raised a brow, having a feeling he knew what she was going to say. There was a brief silence between them. It was clear that neither one of them were comfortable. However, Auru decided to break the silence.

"That's just your life getting back to normal," he reasoned, "you should be happy."

Constance stared at Auru's face long and hard, not sure if he really meant that or not. She could tell there was a pain in his eyes he was trying to conceal. He was a soldier, that was his job. He had to be brave. He had to be strong. He had to carry the brunt of the load, and Constance hated that for him. However, her circumstances were no different. She was a queen, that was her role. She had to be an example. She had to be decisive. She had to have duplicity, and she hated that for herself. Here they were, two people standing the same room, but were really miles and miles apart. If things could have been different, if Constance could have been born a peasant girl, then perhaps they would have had a chance to have a true future together. However, that wasn't reality... reality was far different.

Constance gave her former lover a long once over.

"Should I?" she whispered.

Auru looked away, not wanting to entertain such talk.

"Yes, you should," he said matter-of-fact, then left the matter alone, "anyway, was there anything else in his manner that was different?"

Constance was disappointed that he dismissed the last conversation, but understood why. This wasn't the time or place.

"Yes," she went on, "I told them about the information regarding the crystalline moon."

Auru nodded and didn't take issue with that.

"Good," he said, "that's what you were supposed to do."

Constance hesitated for a moment.

"I know, but I think I did a dreadful mistake," she admitted.

Auru raised a brow and waited.

"What happened?" he asked.

Constance bit her lower lip and shook her head.

"I accidentally said I was told about the information and Xavier picked up on that," she revealed, "ever since then he got suspicious. He was so suspicious, he even got up and left when her majesty Queen Zelda was here."

Auru did look concerned regarding that.

"Well, has he done anything since then?" he asked.

The dragon queen shook her head.

"No," she replied, "he just retired to his chambers. However, I don't think you should remain here. I know you came in secret to see me, but I believe my husband is aware of your being here. If he knows, you could be in serious danger."

Auru took in a deep sigh and milled over her words. He had to be rash in his judgments, but he also needed to take what she was suggesting into consideration. If the king did know of his true feelings for Constance, he could be executed without a trial, because it was considered an act of treason. However, if Constance's intuition were wrong, then he would be leaving prematurely. There was still several important things for him to do while in Dragon Roost, and he couldn't leave until they were done. He was hoping Constance had something more concrete to tell him than a simply whim.

"Are you sure he didn't say anything definitively to you?" he asked. "I need something more than this Constance."

The queen looked at him helplessly and shook her head no.

"I'm sorry, but he didn't," she replied, "I just have this strong feeling."

Auru understood her point, but that wasn't going to be enough for him.

"I'm afraid I need more than a strong feeling," he said, "I can't leave on a whim like this. I have to be here, there's something very important somewhere in this city."

Constance looked at him slightly taken aback.

"What?" she asked. "What's hidden here?"

Auru hesitated, but thought it best if he just told her anyway. He trusted her and knew she could keep a secret... well, for the most part. Also too, he knew that if he didn't tell her she would be unnecessarily worried about him. It served a twofold purpose.

"There's an aperture somewhere in Dragon Roost known as the Tuuli Stone," he divulged. "I need to find this formation of rock because I think two keys are supposed to placed in it to open something. What that something is, I still don't know."

The dragon queen looked at him shocked regarding the revelation.

"Are you serious?" she whispered.

The mature soldier nodded.

"I'm afraid so,"he replied, "whoever wants the Dragon Gala postponed must want to find those two keys and put them in place the night of the crystalline moon. That's the only thing that makes sense."

After hearing that, Constance looked puzzled all of a sudden. She backtracked a little.

"What in Hylia's dear name is the Tuuli Stone?" she asked.

Auru paused again, but this time before he spoke he did a quick scan of the room. When he saw that everything was clear, he walked towards the queen. Constance didn't understand why his previous scan would make any difference now. They would have already been caught, but maybe it was just a force of habit. When he was close enough, he lowered his voice.

"Like I said before, the Tuuli Stone is said to be an old bedding of rock where two distinct keys are put in to activate some strange mechanism on the night of the crystalline moon," he explained in a whisper. "The person who shot at you is apparently aware of this. They needed the postponing of the gala to make whatever preparations necessary."

Constance looked at him in disbelief.

"So, what are we to do?" she demanded quietly. "Just wait and let it happen? This is ridiculous!"

Auru took hold of her shoulders understanding her worry.

"I'm afraid that's our only option," he stated, "I'm still not one hundred percent certain who these people are trying to awaken."

The dragon queen's eyes widened and she looked at him shocked.

"What?" she whispered.

Auru didn't reply.

"Awaken?" she repeated. "I thought you said you weren't certain what they were after."

Auru slipped, realizing he said too much.

I have to get her mind on something else, he thought.

"Don't worry about it, that isn't going to happen," he reassured, "that's why I'm here."

The dragon queen stared into her former lover's eyes a long time and wasn't comforted by that, but she was aware there were some things he just couldn't tell her.

She sighed.

"I understand," she said and looked down at her hands.

There was a brief silence between them after that, and at seeing Constance's facial expression, Auru took her in a tight hug. He knew how much she cared for him, and he wasn't going to discount that by being callous towards her.

"I hate seeing you this way," he whispered in her ear, "I hate it when you worry."

Constance shivered a little bit.

"I don't mean to be a nuisance," she said.

Auru shook his head.

"You're hardly that," he whispered, "you just care, that's all."

Constance looked up at him and caressed his cheek.

"That is true Auru, I do care," she whispered, then added, "...I hope you know I'm still in love with you."

The older soldier stared into her magnificent green eyes, knowing she meant every word.

He nodded slowly.

"I know," he whispered.

At that, Constance hugged Auru tighter and rested her head of his chest. They held each other for the next few moments, but Auru knew the longer they stood there embracing each other, the more danger they were putting themselves in. He wanted more than anything to be with his queen, but he knew that just wasn't possible. Constance was right when she wrote him and told him the fantasy was over. It was over, and should have been over years ago. They were toting a line of life and death with their actions. It just could never be.

I'm so sorry Constance, he thought.

He pulled back from their embrace and stared into his lovely queen's eyes once more.

"I have to go," he whispered, "it's too dangerous for me to stay any longer."

Constance didn't want to hear this, but completely understood.

"I know," she said.

Auru stared at her for a moment longer, then bowed and headed past her to her secret passageway behind a tapestry.

Constance turned to look at him.

"Auru wait," she called to him softly.

The soldier stopped for a moment and turned to look at the dragon queen.

"Yes my lady?" he replied.

Constance paused for a moment and bit her lower lip.

"Please..." she begged slightly, "please be careful."

Auru stared at her for a moment and smiled. It was rare for him to do that.

"I will," he promised, "now get some sleep, I want you to feel as refreshing as you look."

Constance grinned at his sweet words and nodded.

"Of course," she said.

They took in each other's presence for a moment longer, then Auru turned and left. When the door closed behind him, a lone tear fell down Constance's cheek, but immediately she wiped it away.

"Please Auru," she whispered to herself, "please know that your life doesn't just belong to you."

Afterwards, Constance slipped under the covers of her bed and drifted off to a refreshing sleep. After all, some orders needed to be obeyed.

~SSS~

The Next Morning: Zelda's POV

I woke up the next morning and immediately set up a meeting with Master Bastion. It was just him and I, but it was imperative that we spoke on the matters I found out last evening. I explained everything that Constance had divulged to me, including her suspicions about the crystalline moon. To be frank, I had no idea what the crystalline moon was, but I was familiar with the normal lunar cycles. In the eight major changes of the moon in relation to the lunar cycle, right after the waxing Gibbous would be the full moon. However, when the earth was closer to the celestial body, the moon often appeared larger and grander, almost taking up the whole night sky. Nearly three weeks from now, the moon was going experience one of those grand appearances, and for whatever reason something significant was going to happen because of it. The crystalline moon was probably called such for ritualistic practices only, but what those practices were were beyond my reasoning. Bastion had studied covert operations and secret societies for years, and he was well verse in arcane knowledge. Shad or even Auru would have probably been better suited for such work, but I had to make do with what was available to me. Besides, Bastion wasn't a second tier man, he was more than capable to do the job. We were sitting at the white marble table with a few open scrolls and a pot of tea. The scrolls were for the both of us, the tea was for me. It helped me think.

"So, from what I've gathered, it would seem like it was just another lunar cycle with great significance to only fishermen and the Zoras," Bastion was explaining, "however, there is some information in reference to use of a dark power during such a time."

I looked at him intrigued.

"What power do you speak of?" I asked.

Bastion looked down at the scroll he was studying and skimmed through it.

"Something related to a pulse of caustic energy on the night of such a moon," he said, then looked up from the scroll at me. "The energy is suppose to unleash an unspeakable evil power laid dormant somewhere in Hyrule." He looked thoughtful for a moment. "Are you aware of a sect of a cult called the 'Interlopers' your majesty?" he asked, changing the subject.

I nodded and sighed.

"Of course I do," I said, "many years ago, they tried to take over the land using dark arts. They were even participants in the Great War against Hyrule, acting as allies to another incarnation of Demise. They were defeated and sent away from these lands, but there were always remnants of them left. Small little pockets developing here and there; they're leader Majora has been inactive for many years. Do you think that's the 'dormant power' someone is trying to bring back?"

Bastion wasn't sure.

"I could say for a certain my lady," he said, "but that villain does match the profile of such a cult."

I took a sip of my tea, tempered with a cream.

"Doesn't that sect go back further than even Majora?" I asked. "My grandfather sparred with that monster and defeated him, but even then his power seemed to be given to him within that mask, and the mask predates Majora's existence."

Bastion nodded in agreement to my words.

"That is true my lady," he said, "it may be the fact that this is bigger than even that. I have reason to believe that members of this cult may have influenced the events over the past few days to make us pay attention to what you told me."

That was exactly what Constance said the previous night.

"That is a very real possibility," I said.

However, Bastion shook his head.

"It's more than a possibility," he stated, "there was a former member of your court who is still an active interloper."

I looked at him surprised and felt my eyes widen. I knew exactly who he was speaking of.

Dear Hylia, I thought, how could I let that happen?

"Vincent!" I whispered.

Master Bastion took in a sigh.

"Yes unfortunately," he said, "and now both he and his sister have left Hyrule. I have no idea of there whereabouts at this time."

I closed my eyes at such a revelation.

"There was nothing we could hold them on? Keep them in custody?" I asked. "This is a very serious matter. They may have been the ones who orchestrated the attempt on Queen Constance."

After contemplating it more, I was certain of it. Bastion agreed with everything I said, but gave me a wayward look.

"I have the same suspicions your majesty," he said, "in fact, I'm so sure of them, I would even be so bold to say that they were the concrete truth. However, if there is no evidence to justify an arrest, I'm afraid are hands were tied. We had to let them go free."

I gave Bastion a puzzled look, something about this wasn't making sense to me. It had been months since I spoke to Link about my concerns regarding Vincent. That should have been more than enough time to collect some evidence against him and his sister and have them arrested. What had he been doing all this time?

I was trying not to let my doubts show.

"I thought Master Link had a case built against them," I divulged.

Bastion sighed, apparently thinking the same things I was thinking, but he tried to look confident. However, I could tell there was a little irritation he was trying to conceal in his eyes.

"Well... Master Link thought it would be better to build a stronger case against the both of them before he proceeded," he explained. "He wanted no loopholes, and to be quite honest, if we had arrested them too soon, we wouldn't have known what they were really after."

He did have a point, I knew he was trying to sugarcoat the disappointment. It was written all over his face. It was so self evident, that I studied his expression for a moment.

I think it was time we were a little less formal, I thought.

I leaned forward and interlaced my fingers together.

"Would you have proceeded differently good sir?" I asked.

Bastion positioned his eyes from what he was reading back to me momentarily. He didn't answer right away, which told me he was a very shrewd man. He didn't just blurt things out impulsively. He thought things through thoroughly before he spoke on a matter. In some ways, he reminded me of what a docile version of Elbourne would be like: calm, collected, clever, but no nonsense when the time came for it. Bastion probably wouldn't appreciate that comparison, but it was the truth nonetheless. There was something almost princely about Bastion that I couldn't quite put my finger on. Maybe one day I would figure it out, until then I awaited his answer.

He chuckled and scratched his forehead.

"Possibly," he replied, "but then again, probably not."

That was the runaround if I had ever heard it.

I grinned at him.

"So... your answer is yes and no?" I teased with a smile. "I thought indecision wasn't your mastery my good man."

He laughed at that.

"It isn't my lady," he said, "I meant that if the decision were up to me, I probably would have proceeded in the same way."

I narrowed my eyes mischievously at him.

"Then why criticize?" I asked.

He smiled.

"I wasn't aware that I did," he rebutted.

I had to smile at that because he was so witty and quick with his comebacks. I even applauded him playfully to show my respect, he did a mock bow in return at the table. Bastion was very refreshing, candid, glib, honest, and even though I had known him for a great deal of time, he still had an air of mystery about him. I still didn't know his full story. Where was he from? Who were his parents? What brought him to Hyrule? Why did he want to be a soldier when he could have easily become a scholar? He was very smart, and he didn't seem to have an ounce of conceit in him while being extraordinarily handsome.

I really wanted to know more about him.

"Master Bastion you intrigue me," I started, wanting to condition the dialogue.

He caught on to that.

"How so?" he asked.

I leaned in a little more on the table.

"You're the most comfortable stranger I've ever known," I half-joked, "my life could very well be in your hands and I know very little about you."

He laughed at hearing that and shrugged.

"Am I a comfortable stranger my lady?" he asked rhetorically. "Well, I don't mean to be. There just isn't much to tell your majesty."

That was exactly what I wanted him to say.

"Try me," I pressed.

Bastion chuckled again, but then nodded.

"Alright," he said, "what do you want to know?"

I wasn't going to be deflected.

"Everything," I said.

He raised both brows and grinned.

"Everything?" he repeated.

"Everything," I reiterated.

Once again he laughed, but characteristically paused after that. He was thinking of what to say to me. These were the times I wished he were more impulsive.

What are you hiding behind those blue eyes? I wondered.

He cleared his throat in preparation to speak.

"Well," he started, "I lived in the countryside with my mother and sister when I was a child, and when I came of age I decided to join the military. That's it really."

I was surprised how brief that was, but there were a few revelations there.

"I didn't know you had a sister," I said.

He grinned a little in sadness.

"She was my twin," he said.

I got quiet for a moment.

Was? I thought. Did she...?

I wasn't sure how to proceed after that.

"You had a twin?" I inquired.

Bastion sighed and nodded.

"Yes," he said, "and I mean no disrespect your majesty, but I don't want to talk about her."

I was surprised at his rather abrupt frankness. It was unlike him to be so slighting, so it was obviously a sensitive subject, and one he didn't care to discuss.

"Oh," was all I said in reply, I didn't want to divulge any unwanted feelings he didn't want to have, life was stressful enough already. "Well, of course I'll respect that. I'm sorry if you thought I was prying."

Bastion surprisingly reached over and grabbed my hand.

"I'll never think of any of your questions as prying, never," he said with a slight eagerness, "you're my queen, and anything you ask of me I would be willing to do. It's just some things are hard to talk about."

I was even more stunned now. I felt as though he had told me something without really telling me anything.

"I understand completely," I replied, then felt like I had to know this about him, "and if you don't mind my asking, what about your father?"

Bastion got very quiet and looked down at the marble table for a long time. He seemed lost in his thoughts, as if contemplating a different kind of loss. When he broke free of it, he was ready to continue.

"My father was a very important man," he started, letting my hand go, "too important for a small family living on a farm. Anyway, that doesn't matter, my father is dead."

Something in the way he said that was alarming to me. It was mixed with bitterness, anger, and sadness. There was another brief silence, one that was uncomfortable for me, because I may have made a dear friend remember things he wanted to forget.

I'm sorry Bastion, I thought.

I needed to change the subject quick.

"I-uh-I am going to make the suggestion to their majesties to postpone the gala until the aforementioned date," I started. "In the mean time, I'm going to stay here as a comfort to the royal family. I want you to take a few men and go back to Hyrule to report to Master Link. Let him know I'll remain here until the gala, and he will be acting as regent in my absence."

He didn't answer me right away, but when my words registered through Bastion's head he looked at me dumbfounded.

"You want Master Link to act as regent over Hyrule in your absence?" he repeated.

I nodded.

"Yes," I replied.

He looked concerned.

"My lady, shouldn't that assignment go to the regent already put in place, Master Shad?" he asked. "You appointed him as your new steward. He oversees everything when you are gone."

I didn't like being questioned in this regard.

"He oversees what I allow him to oversee," I corrected, "he is not the regent, he is what you said: my advisor and steward. If I wanted him to be regent I would have declared such when he was instated in office."

He looked at me surprised, then raised both brows and closed his mouth. There were no more questions.

"As you wish my lady," he said.

With that, he got up and bowed, but before he left he gave me a knowing smile. I looked at him puzzled just then.

"What's that look for?" I asked.

Bastion chuckled now and shook his head.

"I can't help but wonder if you're grooming Master Link for future service in this capacity," he said slyly, "you wouldn't happen to have kingly aspirations for the young master now would you?"

I felt my eyes widen and I turned beet red.

What? I thought.

"I beg your pardon?" I demanded.

He laughed more.

"It's nothing," he said, then changed the subject, "I shall do all you ask your majesty."

I looked away as my blushing continued.

"You may go sir," I said trying to be stern, but was upset that he saw right through me.

Me and my bloody complexion! I thought irritably.

When the door closed behind him, I closed my eyes.

"I hope he doesn't tell Master Link," I muttered to myself.

~SSS~

Two Days Later, The Gerudo Desert: Vincent's POV

Vincent of Rue Morgue looked up at the unforgiving Gerudo sun, well aware that time wasn't on his side. The day of the crystalline moon was fast approaching, and he needed to make sure that all the preparations were finalized and set in stone. He spent the last few weeks laying low, and figuring out the two clues he discovered in the old text, The Secret Mysteries of All the Ages. At first, he wasn't sure what to make of the obscure sayings. However now, he was completely sure of where he needed to go, and what he needed to do. Falling out of the queen of Hyrule's grace was probably a blessing in disguise for him, as he wouldn't have been able to move as freely if he were still serving by her side. He was actually quite surprised the young peasant Link hadn't had him arrested yet for seditious acts to the crown. Vincent knew Link had the evidence against him, the peasant made boast of it at the party and to his sister. Why he was letting him roam without such a provocation was a mystery to him. However, Vincent waasn't going to lie in wait to be taken to prison either. If Link was waiting for bigger evidential markers to have the noble put away, Vincent had no problem giving them to him. It was high time the true master of this world returned anyway.

Soon... the noble thought with a trail, soon blood will flow to avenge those who have been kept oppressed.

Vincent pulled his cloak over his head to protect his scalp from the sweltering heat. After he had done that, he pondered on how he finally got to this point in his life. Vincent was on the precipice of a new era, an era where the dark would finally overtake the light. It was something he had dreamed of once he became an initiate and member of the Interlopers. One key factor was patience, Vincent knew that he wouldn't have been able to progress in such a rapid fashion without a considerable amount of patience. His going to the Scholar's Academy for four years, graduating and focusing his preceptorship in the Borealis Society, and afterwards being accepted to work as the queen's advisor, all took a considerable amount of time. Patience was indeed an endearing virtue. He finally understood the true meaning behind Falbi's words, and when he read them, it was like he had an 'ah ha' moment.

Another element of his current state was his mild temperance. If the nobleman had acted rashly early on in his career, then he wouldn't have been able to gain the queen's trust, even if that trust was for a short period of time. In Vincent's brief allotment, he was able to re-climb the social ladder, make some powerful friends, gain the trust of the court, and even some members of the Brotherhood. In all that he had done in Hyrule, finding out about the Brotherhood was the most important. It was a secret society where either people knew about it and didn't believe it was real, or they heard about it, believed it existed, rejected it and thus were never seen again. In any such case Vincent was not the latter.

Also too, Vincent couldn't forget the invaluable work of his sister Morgana. Morgana was probably the most instrumental person in Vincent's inner circle of acquaintances. He and his sister had a strange and eclectic relationship at best, but he knew he could trust her to get a job done. Morgana orchestrating and maintaining the sex slave trade was proof of that. The sex ring gathered intelligence that would have been impossible otherwise to collect. Finding out secrets from the wealthiest men in the country, playing to their idiotic egos while they were in an inebriated state was beyond genius. It was also perfect for blackmail if they didn't want to cooperate. How could Vincent overlook or discount how Morgana ascertained information about the peasant Link? Without Morgana's assistance, the finalizing of the purges would be non-existent.

Finally, Vincent reflected once again on the Brotherhood. It may have been a cliche thought, however it needed to be mentioned: where would the nobleman be without the precious Brotherhood of Hyrule? It was a serious question in that without it he wouldn't have been able to retrieve the means or information to bring back his master. Speaking of such, the headmasters were two men of a very fickle nature. They proved to be both a thorn in Vincent's side and a catalyst to his success. Vincent learned a great deal from both men, and as an initiate he also discerned that neither man trusted each other. That last tier was one he would probably never reach, however, now in his current state he wouldn't need to. The Brotherhood of Hyrule was a haven of secrets, true, but those secrets wouldn't matter for long. The organization had served its purpose, and it was no longer necessary.

Vincent closed his eyes and took in a deep breath of hot dry air. It wasn't to be refreshed, it was to remind him of close he was to being free. He then turned and looked back at his sister who was dressed in dark green and was sheltering her pale fair skin from the sun. When she caught her brother looking at her, she gave him a displeasing scowl.

"How much farther?" she called to him.

Vincent understood her discomforts, but they were necessary for the time being.

"It's not far!" he called back. "Just over these dunes in the distance!"

That reply was none to reassuring for Morgana, who was used to the comforts of noble life. However, she didn't complain, at least not outwardly, groaned, and simply nodded, knowing she had no choice in the matter. It was what it was.

The Gerudo Desert was a vast sea of golden sand and punishing heat. It extended for miles and miles and was littered with dunes, buried ruins, quicksand pits, and hidden tombs all over the place. The desert toted 'Gerudo' in its title, true, but it showed very little evidence of the ancient Gerudo culture. The Gerudos were once a powerful race of primarily women, with a man being born every one hundred years. The people were known for their exemplary fighting skills, thievery, horse training, and even their enigmatic ties to the royal family. However, in the present there were few, if any, Gerudo people left. The desert rang more like a tomb with its eerie silence, than a residing place for a once powerful people. Many historians believed the Gerudos were killed off by a creature that once dwelled in the notorious Arbiter's Grounds. The grounds were located in the farthest northern stretches of the desert, and was used formally as a judging and executing site for the sages of old. However, there was also a rumor that a treacherous act performed by a former king of Hyrule was done there, and meant to be forgotten. Some even say that act was the true reason Zant went down his spiral of madness. In any such case, Vincent wasn't there to recall the desert's dark history. His objective was different, his objective was the Cave of Ordeals.

Vincent narrowed his eyes when he saw a giant hole in the ground in the distance.

There it is, he thought.

The Cave of Ordeals was fifty floors of terror, where only the strongest warriors went and conquered. However, Vincent deduced that since both Zant and Ganondorf were gone, that the evil effects of the Triforce of Power would not allay a monsters haven. If the nobleman's conjecture were wrong he would have to figure out another way to his objective. There was no way he would be able to battle monsters without the aide of his master. When Vincent and Morgana got closer to the large hole, they stopped short of entering. Vincent's eyes widened in excitement.

"This is it!" he whispered more to himself than his sister.

Morgana looked over at her brother hesitantly and then down the dark hole.

"Are you sure?" she asked anyway. "This looks like any other pit in this desert."

Vincent ignored her and started down the stone stairs.

"Come on," he directed.

Morgana paused again, but hurried her decision along when she saw her brother take off without her. The brother sister duo walked twenty or so steps down the ladder to the first floor, where the bright lights of the sun became minuscule quickly. Vincent unhooded himself and went to the far wall looking for a torch of some kind. He took an old fire holder then saturated it in lantern oil, afterwards, he took two stone flints and flickered them together to create a flame. When the nobleman and his sister got a better look at their surroundings they nearly gagged from repulsion. Old rotten carcasses were scattered all over the place. The flesh had been decayed for some time so the smell wasn't heavy, but the sight of such things ran a shiver of fear up Vincent's back. The nobleman never fooled himself in what he was. He was a survivor and a thinker, not a man who made his living picking up a sword.

After Vincent collected himself, they continued forward.

"Let's go," he whispered.

Morgana was still staring at the corpse of the dead bokoboblin, but finally broke away her gaze and continued after her brother. They traveled down each floor, getting more and more frightened by the sights they saw. There were rotten bodies and carcasses everywhere, from every creature imaginable. Vincent tried to ignore it, but he was aware his mind was going to remind him of this for a very long time. After descending the fiftieth and final floor, Vincent and Morgana were surprised to find a pool of pinkish water. The stone aperture looked like a fountain, but there was no budding spring for the water to flow. Morgana started walking over to it, but Vincent immediately cautioned her.

"Be careful," he warned, "we don't know what's residing in here."

Morgana fanned him off.

"After going through that," she said referencing the cave, "this doesn't scare me." When Morgana got closer, the pinkish waters suddenly dried up, leaving only compact dark brown earth. She was shocked at the sudden erosion. "What in the-" she stopped herself.

Vincent came up next to her, witnessing the marvel himself, and put up his arm to hold her back.

"I'll take a look," he said and went ahead of her to the now empty spring.

However, before he took another step an apparition of a beautiful young nubile maiden appeared. She had long bluish green hair that wrapped around her naked body and transparent wings stationed at her back. She appeared no older than twenty, but the look of wisdom in her lavender eyes showed she had been around for ages. Vincent and Morgana both stared at the enchantress stunned.

"Dear Farore," the former advisor whispered to himself.

The fairy turned her attention to Morgana first, then to Vincent.

"I know what it is you seek," she revealed in a whispery voice.

Both the brother sister duo stiffened.

"I don't know what you're talking about," Vincent tried to deflect.

The fairy didn't waste time trying to argue with him and raised her hand.

"You know what I speak of Vincent of Rue Morgue," she continued, "I will give you the key, but just know that if he comes after you, you will not succeed."

Morgana looked at her shocked. "What?" she demanded. "If who comes after us?"

The fairy looked over at her. "The one who conquered all fifty floors," she replied.

Vincent didn't need it spelled out for him.

Link... he thought upset.

"Fine," Vincent said stubbornly, "we've accepted that, but we're one step ahead of him anyway."

The fairy just stared at him.

"Is that your answer?" she asked.

Vincent groaned, he was starting to get impatient.

"Yes!" he snapped. "Now give us the key!"

The fairy gave no other warnings.

"Very well," she said, then snapped her fingers, "you may unearth it at your leisure."

With that, the enchantress swirled, raised her arms above her head until her pirouette made her disappear. When she was gone, a patch of of wet black earth was left behind. Vincent hesitated for only a second, then wasted no time opening his satchel and using the trowel he packed to dig up the soil. After a few minutes of digging, and a perfume cloud of dust formed in the air, the former advisor finally hit something solid. His excitement grew as he pushed the mud away, and when he picked up what he was looking for, his sister finally bent down to join him.

Morgana's greedy eyes were wide.

"Is that...?" she trailed.

Vincent nodded, not even needing for her to finish.

"Yes," he said, then held up the triangle shaped rock, "this is the Gufu Key."

Morgana let out a shreik of happiness.

"Can you believe it Vincent?" she asked. "We're so close! So close! I can smell the victory! He is going to be so proud when he comes back!"

Vincent only nodded not really listening.

"Just one more to go," he whispered, "and I know exactly where it is."

Morgana took the Gufu Key from him and held it like it was the most coveted thing in the world.

"Yes, just one more," she whispered, more to herself than to him, "where are we headed to next?"

Vincent stood up and wiped his hands. A slick smile came across his face just then.

"Faron Woods," he said, "it's about time we had a descent change of climate."