Inspiration: A thin line between love and hate.
Shout Out: Lorulian, welcome to the archive and thank you for reading.
Author Note: All hail Smash Bros for Wii U! Woo hoo!
Word Count: 12,478
Chapter 20
Seventeen Days Since Link's Departure, An Impasse Near the Entrance to the Gerudo Desert: Link's POV
No matter who many times I traveled through here, I did not miss the sweltering heat that encompassed the Gerudo Desert. It was over bearing, it was all engulfing, and just down right uncomfortable. However, the last clue was out here somewhere in an unmarked pit, which was interesting, because the Cave of Ordeals was only a stone's throw away. Ever since I resigned my post in Hyrule, I made haste on this quest to find my beloved Midna. The two canvasses were in my possession and the third was nearly within my grasp. If this all turned out to be true, then I could possibly be reunited with the twilight queen, hopefully, not in a matter of weeks but days. I reasoned that way because if I was having such success with finding these relics, then finding the mirror shouldn't have been that much harder. I just needed to stay focused.
Going back to the day of my resignation, my former team members did not take the news of my departure well at all. In fact, all of them fought me on the decision one way or another, with Ashei surprisingly being the most vocal and upset about the matter. I expected such a reaction from her husband, but not from her. She was insistent that my leaving the castle was idiotic, and that if I was leaving because of the nobles then I was a coward. In a way, I saw her point, but she didn't know or understand what my true motivations were, so I didn't take offense to her disapproval, she had right to her feelings. Bastion on the other hand didn't have very much to say. He told me that he was obviously disappointed that I was leaving, but he didn't go into a long lecture as to why. He knew better than anyone why this was so important to me, and when he hugged me goodbye he whispered subtly in my ear, "Be careful, the queen's decree is still the queen's decree." I told him I got his message loud and clear, and that I would heed his advice. Lastly, Auru seemed indifferent about the decision. If he did care, he wasn't showing it very much. He knew there was more to what I was letting on regarding the matter. He also knew that I wouldn't just resign at the drop of a rupee for no apparent reason either. The man was insightful, being a former headmaster in the brotherhood he would have to be, but, like Bastion, he didn't bother to question me as if I were at a judiciary tribunal. However, he didn't hide his open suspicion on the matter either. He even pulled me to the side after the dismissal of the CIT, asking if I was in some kind of trouble for making such a rash decision. However, I simply told him what I told the others. Of course, he didn't believe me, but he knew there was nothing he could do to change my mind either. I told him to take care of the team, but he in turn told me to take care of myself. I promised him I would do so, and afterwards that was that.
When Telma found out about the news, she was the most understanding of everyone. She invited me to her bar when it closed and cooked me a supper to remember. She and her family were the most supportive, possibly due to her having to leave the counter insurgency team regarding her own circumstances. She told me only I knew what was best for me, and that no one should make me feel bad about it. I appreciated her positive approach as it was a direct contrast to my other friends who cared for me. With that advice, she gave me a large bottle of her best red wine. I was surprised at the gift and almost didn't accept it, but she insisted that I take it, and that she wouldn't take no for an answer. She told me to think of her and the others when I drank it. Ronado too gave me a little bit of advice, he stated that sometimes for the greater good, sacrifices had to be made, but not to let that sacrifice get in the way of real life. I understood his words completely, and wished I could channel that thought process to everyone else. However, I simply thanked him and Telma for their time and wished them well as well.
When I returned home to Ordon that night and informed Rusl of the news, he was both surprised and shocked at the decision. He asked me if my life was threatened and was that the reason for me departing from Hyrule so prematurely. It was amazing how much he and Auru thought alike, however, I told him no and informed him that that wasn't the case at all. I informed him that I just needed a change, and that the stress was interfering with life at home. Admittedly, he was astonished at such a divulgence from me, especially considering our conversation in the past regarding the change in me. But, he told me he thought that was a mature mindset to have, and that in the end he considered it for the best. I agreed, but obviously for much different reasons. Afterwards, he asked me about what I was going to do now for work, I told him I would need some time to think about that, but for him not to worry.
Later that same evening, there was no surprise that when Ilia caught wind of the news she was ecstatic. She even jumped in my arms and gave me a big hug when I told her what I had done. I tried to smile at her happiness, but was confused in how all this came about at the same time. I hugged her back anyway, and told her I was glad she was pleased with my decision. She in turn proceeded to cook me another supper, but I told her I couldn't possibly eat anymore, I already had a large meal in Castle Town. She insisted, but I was firm in saying no. Disappointed, she reluctantly accepted my decline, but she didn't let that dampen her mood for long. She told me she was proud of me for being brave enough to leave Hyrule behind. I just looked at her after her utterance, not sure I completely agreed with her on that, but I thanked her just the same. I didn't consider my actions brave by a long shot, especially where Zelda was concerned. If any of them knew what I had done to the queen just to get to this point, they wouldn't consider my actions brave at all. The truth of the matter was I just desperately wanted to see my dear Midna again.
Anyway, that was over two weeks ago. Now, I was currently on the verge of a new discovery, and I was trying to brace myself of my excitement. Everything seemed to be falling too perfectly into place, and I didn't want to jinx it. However, there was no denying the elation I felt regarding this situation. I was continuing my way over a large sand dune, when I suddenly stopped and looked at my map once more. There was a faint fork drawn by the cartographer, bifurcating the sand dune into two distinct locations. However, with all the wind and natural sandstorms, there was no way to tell if this were pointing to the location I was already on, or if the locale had been distorted in some way. The only thing I could go by was the number of steps written on the text specifying the spot. I had walked exactly one thousand paces from the entrance of the desert. Looking at where I was, there was nothing significant to specify a marked spot, and given all the natural discrepancies related to the weather, it seemed like a silly spot to bury a relic. Even still, even with all that logic there to guide me, I forewent that thought process and kept on with my search. I reasoned that perhaps the original owner of the relic hid it this way to throw off any grave robbers. It was the only explanation I could give myself that was suitable.
I looked down at the heat induced sand and was standing at the very spot I needed to be, but I saw nothing that looked like an evidential marker for a dig. I kept the cloak I was wearing over my head and continued looking at the map for anything suspicious. So far, I saw nothing for miles except sand. I studied the map again, retracing the line I went over for what seemed like the hundredth time. I came to the same conclusion every time. I groaned and rubbed the back of my neck when I was again at a standstill. What was I overlooking? What was I not taking note of? There had to be something. It was then I glanced up and took note of all the dunes in the distance. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary, except I think I may have made a miscalculation when configuring my step count. From the initial onset of walking into the desert, I assumed the first heap of sand I was already on was the first dune. However, when I looked at the map again, the step count didn't actually start until after the first heap of sand. So I may have needed to travel over one more dune to get to my desired destination. Without wasting another moment, I did just that.
At this next dune, I hurried to take out the trowel and spade in my possession to dig up the earth. I felt my heart pound in complete rapture when after digging for several minutes, I came across the inevitable thud underneath the pile of sand. After several more minutes that led to an half hour's worth of digging, I unearthed a small treasure chest. My eyes widened immediately when I pulled the box from the ground. Not waiting another moment, I cleared off the excess sand and opened the chest. Inside was what I was hoping for, it was almost like a little cadence went off in my head, there was another rolled up leather canvass with a small seal wrapped around it. I immediately took out the canvas and removed the seal. After unrolling the leather, I read the text in ancient Hylian. It read: consummatum est.
I was puzzled for a moment and read the message again. It still said the same thing: consummatum est, or 'is finished'. I then opened the satchel I was carrying and took out the other two canvasses. When I put all the words together it read this way: "the time for adventuring is finished". I was slightly taken aback at the wording, but I deduced it was another play on words like the other riddles I deciphered. However, I wasn't going to lie, there was definitely something off about how all this read. Deciding not to foot around any longer, I closed the chest, locked it, and buried it back under the sand. Afterwards, I stood up, dusted myself off, and made my way back to the entrance of the desert. I finally had all three components on the map. I was well on my way to finding that mirror.
Nothing was going to stop me now.
Midna... I thought, I'll be reunited with you soon.
With that in mind, I quickened my pace.
I still had a lot to do.
~SSS~
Several kilometers away, from underneath a nearby dune: Vincent's POV
I smiled as I watched the hero walk away with a pair of magnification specs. Everything was now fully in place. I looked over at my sister Morgana and handed her a slip of sealed stationery.
"He bought it hook, line, and sinker," I said with a smirk, "it's time this was mailed to her majesty. She'll be quite interested to know what her precious hero has been up to since his departure and her decree."
Morgana returned my smile and took the letter.
"Perfect," she replied, "I'll have one of my girls slip it to a courtier immediately."
I looked back into my bifocals to keep an eye on the hero.
"Be sure to do that," I reiterated, "once he gets a whiff that this is a set up, then it's over. I'll inform him of everything in due time in my own way, but it is imperative that the hero gets captured in the next twenty-four hours while everything is still in his possession. That's the only way the letter to her majesty will make any sense."
Morgana nodded in agreement, understanding the gravity of everything.
"Don't worry," she reassured, "I'll have it delivered to Hyrule Castle right in time for the queen to take afternoon correspondence."
I was pleased in hearing that.
"Perfect," I replied, not taking my eyes away from the bifocals.
With that, Morgana took her leave and made her exit back into the underground crypt with which we came. I was left alone now, and I couldn't help but feel a resounding sense of jubilation conjure inside of me. The hero's fall from grace was imminent. That beguiled fool was so insistent on finding his precious twilight queen, that he threw all rhyme and reason to the wind. How could he be so foolish into thinking that something as important as the Gufu Key and the Demanded Flower would just leave my possession? Had he not thought about that at all? However, I wasn't complaining. If he wanted his downfall to come sooner rather than later, then so be it. I couldn't wait to divulge the news to him that this was all a trap. I could only imagine what his facial expression would be like from his jail cell. There was so much to entertain regarding these next few hours, and I wished I could be in the same room when the queen read my letter, when the realization hit her that her precious hero had been using her the entire time, or when the hero was inevitably surprised that the queen was going to be privy to his extracurricular activities. The thought of that actually made me giddy inside and smile once again. All I had to do now was be patient and wait.
That was all.
I just had to be patient and wait.
The hero distanced himself more, and finally made his exit from the sand dunes.
I never took my eyes off him.
"Revenge..." I whispered to myself, "revenge is going to be so sweet."
~SSS~
Four Hours Later, The Queen's Chamber: Zelda's POV
Life was back to normal in the realist sense of the word as expected. Link was gone, the court was here, and people still needed things to be taken care of. The life of a queen never stopped just because the service of a hero did. I admittedly had recessed court the past two days for not wanting to be bothered with any business dealings. I couldn't focus, however, that was not an excuse. There were many people relying on me and needing my counsel, and I couldn't leave everything to a judicial committee. Somethings needed my personal touch. Also too, if I didn't return to my duties soon there was going to be more talk of a regent taking over in my stead. The whole idea of that was ridiculous. For the last one thousand years a Nohanseen has sat on the seat of Hyrule's throne. That was not going to be changed now. I was not about to be usurped by a politically ambitious regent who tried to make the case that I was an unfit queen. That was nonsense, and it wasn't going to happen as long as I was the sovereign of Hyrule.
In the present, I was overlooking some documents, when there was a subtle knock on my chamber door. With Lydia off doing other duties, and I not looking up from my study, I answered by a call.
"Yes?" I replied.
There was a brief pause.
"It is your faithful servant your majesty," a messenger said in reply.
I paused for a moment and grinned at hearing that. I appreciated that phrase more and more as time went on because it seemed to mean very little to certain people these days.
Oh if only, I thought with a hint of sarcasm.
"Come in," I called in reply.
On cue, my loyal servant and courtier walked in. Once he bowed and went through the pleasantries of greeting me, he announced his reason for coming.
"Good afternoon your majesty," he said, "you have a letter sent to you by expedient post. It was garnered by horse and carriage."
I looked up from my papers when I heard that.
Horse and carriage?
I gave him an offhanded look.
"What?" I inquired.
The courtier nodded and cleared his throat to speak once more.
"Yes my lady," he replied, "the letter was sent by the fastest system possible. It must be of great importance."
I raised a brow intrigued.
Indeed, I thought.
"Who's it from?" I asked.
The messenger shook his head.
"It doesn't say my lady," he replied.
I was taken aback at hearing that.
Why in the world would someone send a letter via expedient delivery and not have a name on it? It didn't make sense.
"There's no letter head?" I asked.
The courtier shook his head again.
"I'm afraid not," he replied.
I paused for a moment and sat back, then after a brief moment of due pondering, I gestured for him to bring the letter to me. I might as well entertain the message, as someone went through a great deal of trouble delivering it to me.
"Very well," was all I said in reply.
Afterwards, the courtier brought the letter to me and placed on the table. I looked at it for just a moment, then dismissed the courtier.
"You may go," I said, "I'll call you when I need you."
The messenger bowed again.
"Yes your majesty," he replied.
With that he took his leave. When I was alone, I looked at the stationery one more time, wondering who would want to send me an expedient letter and not tell me who it was from. A statesman? An enemy? A spy? Perhaps it was nothing that fantastic, and then I immediately thought of Elbourne. However, that deduction quickly went to the wayside when I looked at the paper. Elbourne always sent his letters on black and red stationery. He did it distinct like that on purpose. However, maybe he was replying to me differently considering the nature of my two letters I sent to him. Either case, something was up, and instead of indulging the mystery further, I decided to just open the letter and see what was inside. My eyes skimmed through the contents before coming back to the top to read it thoroughly. At first, I didn't know what to make of it, but as I read on, I realized it was alarming and distressing news.
My face crumpled in confusion.
What in Hylia's dear name...? I wondered.
The letter read:
Greetings Your Illustrious Majesty, From a Concerned Citizen
Your majesty, I know this may seem very unorthodox, and the timing of this may seem uncanny,
however, something has come to my attention that I must write to you about. I am going divulge information
to you of the most sensitive nature because I believe in the sovereignty of the throne of Hyrule.
Let me start off by stating that I am a former member of an arcane sect known as the Brotherhood of Hyrule.
During my tutelage there I was privy to many secrets, secrets that may even be unknown to you.
That may seem like a brash thing to write, however, I just wanted to make it known to you that being a
purveyor of sensitive information is indeed my forte.
I stopped there for a second and felt a strange sense of foreboding.
"A purveyor of secrets?" I whispered aloud. "What in the world is this person talking about?"
I read on:
The reason for my concern is twofold, with the first being respect for the crown, and the second being
respect for Hyrule's laws. I remember over hearing a great woman once saying to me that the law ruled
in Hyrule. I've never forgotten those words because they echoed so true throughout the ages. Anyway,
enough of the small talk, and on to the points of submission. It has come to my attention via a very reliable
source that a certain young man has been acting in opposition to your royal decree. I distinctly remember
the verbiage of your decree, because it was exact in its wording. There was absolutely no room for doubt.
You stated implicitly that it was forbidden to look for places throughout Hyrule that could reconnect with the Twilight
Realm. Such actions said by you were to be considered treasonous due to the instability of the wormholes therein.
Naturally I, as one of your loyal servants, understood the wisdom in such words due to the terrible interdict of the past.
I paused again and felt the pit of my stomach drop.
That was impossible.
"What?" was all I could think to say.
I read on:
However, I digress, it seems the hero is not in the same line of thought as you or I.
As such, it is my duty to bring you news that is important to the safety and the well being of the country. The
young man known as Link has been seen in several different locations looking for ways to access the Twilight
Realm. The reason I am confident in telling you this is because he has been watched very closely by
certain members of the brotherhood. Anyone with as much influence as the young hero is always going
to have an extra set of eyes on him. Well, it is believe that in his possession he has the implements of trying
to find and open the gates to the other dimension. I say 'believed' because I can't tell you for a certainty
what he has with him. However, for him to have the kind of progress that he has made, it can be deduced
that he has found something worthy of his steady attention.
He has been going to and fro from his village for weeks, it is even believed he acted before his resignation
from your service. A resignation that I still find suspect to be quite frank. However, again, I have no concrete
evidence of that and that is purely conjecture on my part. Even still, I couldn't just let this information pass by my way
without notifying you. I hope this does not fall upon deaf ears or blind eyes. I mean that with the utmost respect
possible your majesty, for I believe the hero's actions, if true, are extremely disrespectful. I know he saved
the country, but is he really above the throne with such a heinous reproach? Can something like this
really be overlooked? I hope these questions are for due pondering your majesty, and I know your wisdom
will guide you to do what's right. These are simply the words of a concerned citizen, and a lover of Hyrule.
May Hylia's Grace Stay Upon You,
~Another Man With No Name~
At the letter's end, I had no idea what to think. First, some of the accusations were absolutely ridiculous to believe. Whoever this man was writes me a letter, but doesn't care to share his name. He claims to have been a member of the brotherhood, but he doesn't reveal his former rank. He claims to be privy to sensitive information, but he gives oddball conjecture at best. Lastly, this wrote like a noble seeking revenge on Link. There was no denying that. The nobles had been out to get him since he arrived in Hyrule, and now that he was gone they looked to be trying to destroy him outside the castle walls as well.
I sighed and shook my head.
This was a pathetic attempt to have him arrested. I tossed the letter onto the table and sat back in my chair. I had enough on my plate worry about, and some over zealous fool was trying to divert my attention away from real judiciary matters. It was ridiculous.
"What people will do these days," I muttered to myself.
I ran my fingers over my forehead and closed my eyes. I was growing weary of all this espionage, life was so much better without it. Why couldn't I have been born a peasant girl? Just then, I glanced up at the vaulted ceiling and looked at the mural of Hylia with the Hero of Sky. She was smiling and looking beautiful as her hero embraced her. I grinned at the sight of them.
"I've asked you this once before," I began, "but what would you do?"
The mural just stared back at me. I wasn't expecting an answer.
I sighed, and looked over at the letter again, then scanned through its contents once more. All the claims seemed fantastic, however... however, I couldn't help but feel this subtle sense of doubt starting to creep up within me. What this person had written seemed silly, true, but what if... what if he were right? What if Link's sudden departure had something to do with him wanting to find the Twilight Realm? It was abrupt, he didn't really state his reasons why, he did say it was because he didn't feel worthy of serving me in such a capacity any longer. However, when I thought about it now, I mean really thought about it, none of that logic made sense, and everything in terms of what he was being accused of did.
When I recollected back, the first thing Link asked of me when he came to see me after the events at Emiry Tower were things related to finding his precious Midna. His precious Midna. They had nothing to do with wanting to serve Hyrule in a greater capacity, or thanking me in that silly little way he did because I let him use my grandfather's tunic, or even apologizing to me for using me the way he did. No, his whole reason for seeing me that day was so that he could partition a way to see his beloved Midna again... his beloved Midna. I tried not to be bothered by that fact, but there was no denying the under current of jealousy I felt towards her. It had nothing to do with any actions on the part of the twilight queen herself, how could she know? I haven't spoken to her since that inevitable day at the Arbiter's Grounds, and I was sure it was the same for Link. However, he was well aware of what he was doing. He was well aware that he felt nothing for me and that his true motivations had been her this entire time.
"...I'm not worthy of you..." his voice echoed through my mind.
I groaned at that thought.
What nonsense.
I rolled my eyes and sighed. I couldn't believe I fell for that silly phrase because they fell from his beautiful lips. Through all that stardust and wishful thinking Link was just another man, doing what he needed to do to get where he needed to go. I wasn't going to fall for that foolishness again. I looked to the letter one more, and pursed my lips together. I was going to have to make a decision, a very hard decision to be honest. If he was innocent of all he was being accused of he should have nothing to worry about. If he wasn't searching for the mirror and deliberately disrespecting my decree, he could tell me so himself. An innocent man had nothing to hide. It was only the ones that quaked in their boots who were afraid of the white light of truth. Having made up my mind, I went to the anteroom of my chamber and rung the gong in the back there. After a few moments, there was a knock on my door. I knew exactly who it was.
"Come in," I called.
At my cue, in walked Shad.
"You called for me my lady?" he inquired.
I paused and looked him over for a moment, then cut my eyes back to the table.
No Zelda you can't falter in this, I thought, this needs to be done.
"Yes, I did," I stated matter-of-fact, "I need you to do something for me."
He probably took note of my disposition and knew this was going to be serious.
"And what's that my lady?" he asked.
I looked him straight in the eye.
"I need you to alert the guard to apprehend the man known as Link," I said with no hesitations, "I have reason to believe he was involved in seditious acts to the throne."
Shad's eyes widened and he looked at me shocked.
"My lady..." he trailed, "you want him to be... to be arrested?"
I looked to the floor just then.
"No," I said, "I just want him brought in for questioning, an alarming letter has been brought to my attention accusing him of some erroneous things."
Shad was still taken aback.
"Your majesty," he said uncertain, "are you sure you want to proceed this way? This could... this could look very bad for you if he is innocent. The people hold Master Link in very high regard."
I raised a brow, not appreciating him questioning me.
"I didn't say he was arrested Sir Shad," I reiterated, "I said I wanted him brought in for questioning. I said he was accused, I didn't say he was guilty."
The look on my face must have said it all because the scholar then clamped his mouth shut.
"Yes my lady," he replied.
I understood what Shad was trying to convey, and I was going to proceed with this very carefully. However, this was not something I was just going to let fall to the wayside either. This was serious, and if it was true then the ramifications were going to be great.
Let's hope that isn't the case, I thought.
"Make sure all the things he has in his possession in terms of books and maps are confiscated as well," I added, "I want to make sure nothing is overlooked."
Shad nodded.
"Yes, your majesty," he replied.
I then nodded towards the door.
"You may go and alert the guard," I said.
Shad bowed this time, then turned and headed out the door.
I, in turn, walked over to my table and looked down at the letter once more. I skimmed through it again, and tapped my finger on the paper.
"For your sake Link," I whispered to myself, "I hope none of what is written here is true."
~SSS~
Several Hours Later, Dusk at Ordon Village: Link's POV
The day was vastly coming to a close, and I couldn't have been more excited with what I had found. All three pieces of the puzzle were now in my possession, and it was only a matter of time before I deciphered the meaning of this strange riddle. It was hard for me to believe that only a few short weeks ago the thought of seeing Midna again was just a far off fantasy for me. However, now, with everything I had gathered here, that fantasy was sincerely going to become a reality. It was almost unfathomable. These three pieces of information were going to lead me to a book, that was going to direct me to the Twilight Realm, that was going to bring me face to face with my beloved Midna once more. I wondered if the year had changed her at all. I wondered if the twilight queen still thought about me the way I thought about her. I wondered if her life was more at ease than it had been when she was traveling with me through Hyrule. I wondered a great many things about her, and soon I was going to be able to ask her everything. I just needed to be patient. Admittedly, that was hard for me at this time, I just couldn't wait to see her.
Even still, it was imperative that I acted quickly regarding this matter, because Ilia informed me that she was already over two months pregnant, and even though she hid it well with her clothes, she did have a little bump. There was going to be no need for questions when her belly protruded further as the months went on. Everyone was going to know what happened between us and that would only make things more stressful for us. It wouldn't have been a good example for the younger Ordonians who looked up to us. I had to expedite this process.
The third piece of information was found on a leather canvass as well. It had two words written on it like the others, and it read very simply: consummatum est or "is finished". When I put everything together the code read this way: "The time for adventuring is finished." To be quite honest, this code read more like a warning than a clue. How in the world would something as direct as "The time for adventuring is finished" be deciphered into anything else than what is meant? Whoever thought of this clue must have had a very specific detail in mind that I was obviously over looking. I checked several scrolls I had referenced in front of me, and I also had an encryption guide book to look up obscure, eclectic sayings. So far, nothing matched or even sounded remotely close to what was written here. Then, there was also the leather canvass itself I needed to take into consideration. Something was definitely out of the ordinary on what these messages were written on. The leather was actually of a fine grade found only on the hides of royal elk, and the type of royal elk this leather came from only started being bred within the last five years. So that meant whoever buried these messages wasn't someone ancient, but someone in the recent past. Also too, I couldn't overlook the cartography either. In ancient Hyrule, most codex was written with a wide tipped feather quill pen as opposed to the fine ones made today. These messages were all written with fine tipped pens. Again, I wasn't trying to be a skeptic, but something didn't seem right about all this.
"What aren't I seeing?" I whispered to myself.
My concentration was temporarily disrupted, and thankfully so, by the sound of the knock on the door. I was actually grateful for the break, I closed the book I was reading, and looked up to see who was going to greet me.
"Come in," I called.
A moment later, unsurprisingly Ilia walked in. She smiled when she made eye contact, and glanced down at the table.
"How is everything?" she asked.
I returned her smile.
"Not too bad," I replied, "I did hit a little bump, but nothing a little more time won't fix."
She nodded, then came to sit down across from me at the table.
"How... how much more time do you think you'll need?" she asked.
I realized according to our deal, I only had a few days left. I promised her I would forfeit my search if nothing came of it after six weeks. That sixth week marker was rapidly approaching.
"Not too much longer," I reassured, "I want to thank you for your patience, you've been wonderful."
Ilia blushed, then shrugged.
"This person is important to you," she said simply.
I stared at her for just a moment.
"Well, I appreciate that," I replied.
She looked me over and grinned.
"What are friends for?" she said with a hint of sarcasm.
Her inflection made me chuckled, then I studied her for a moment.
"Can I ask you something?" I inquired, breaking the brief silence between us.
She smirked.
"You just did," she replied.
I hated that.
I groaned in mild irritation.
"Can I ask you something else?" I reiterated dryly.
She giggled at my tone.
"Sure," she said with a nod.
I paused for a moment as my eyes searched her face.
"Tell me honestly," I said, "does it bother you that I'm looking for Midna?"
Ilia's eyes immediately widened and she looked away.
There was another brief silence between us.
"Why are you asking me this now?" she inquired.
I shrugged.
"I just wanted your thoughts on the matter," I said honestly, "I realized if the shoe were on the other foot I wouldn't be too happy about this situation."
Ilia was quiet for a moment, then she fidgeted with her hands nervously.
"Of course I'm not happy about it," she said softly, "but what can I do? It's like I said before, she's important to you Link."
I sighed when I heard her say that. I reached over and took her hand in mine.
"You want me to stop looking for her, don't you?" I asked.
Again, Ilia's cheeks blushed. She stroked her hair behind her ear.
"I leave that entirely up to you," she said quietly.
I searched her face for a moment, knowing what she really wanted to say. I couldn't say I blamed her, who wanted the man they were in love with to go searching for another woman? It was silly of me to think that was an okay premise.
"You have been pretty understanding regarding this whole thing," I replied, "and I promise you, if nothing happens within the next few days then I'm forfeiting my search, alright?"
That reassurance seemed to make her feel better.
"Alright," she replied.
Afterwards, I got up and went around the table to give her a hug. Ilia immediately hugged me back, however, the brief reverie was short lived when we both heard the sound of horses hooves resound through the air. I paused for a moment while I was still hugging Ilia to make sure I heard that right, however there was no denying that thump, thump, thump. I immediately let her go and went over to the door.
What in the world...? I thought.
"Wait here," I told her.
Ilia nodded in return, but looked concerned.
When I opened the door, I was surprised to find six of her majesty's royal guard all on horse back stationed at the fork of the impasse. I looked at the men taken aback, but then went down my ladder to greet them. I instantly assumed something terrible was happening at the castle and they came here to commission me. However, I suddenly had to rethink that premise from the expression on their faces.
What in the world is going on here? I wondered.
At ground level, I went to the first rider and nodded my head.
"Can I help you?" I asked.
The guard kept his expression stone face.
"Her majesty, Queen Zelda has ordered for you to be brought in for questioning Master Link," he replied, getting right to the point.
I looked at the man stunned.
What in Hylia's dear name...? I wondered.
"Questioning?" I repeated.
The guard nodded, and then snapped his fore and middle finger to signal two other men to come forward. When they were in earshot he ordered as follows: "Search the house and take any books and scrolls he may have in his possession with him."
I felt my eyes widen suddenly after hearing that, having a better understanding of what was now going on here. With that, the two soldiers got off their horses and hurried up the ladder to my home. When the door opened, Ilia cried out in alarm.
"What's going on here?" she asked. "Who are you? What are you doing?"
I looked from my home to the main guard, and suddenly felt an onset of panic.
"Wait a minute you can't just-" I tried.
"I wouldn't Master Liink," he interrupted in warning, "your best bet is to come with us quietly."
I felt my breathing accelerate.
"Do you have any idea what this is about?" I asked, already knowing the answer to my question.
The guard shook his head no.
"I don't," he replied, "but it would be in your best interest to be honest regarding whatever her majesty has to ask of you."
I felt the bottom of my stomach drop, and then suddenly all the other residents from the main village came to the impasse to see what all the ruckus was about. They were just in time to see the two guards leaving my home with my satchel full of my things.
Rusl stepped forward in surprise. "What's going on here?" he demanded. "Link, what are these men doing?"
Collin too was eager to know what was going on. "Hey why are those soldiers in your house Link?" he asked.
I didn't reply as it would be too much for any of them to understand.
"We have everything sir," the soldiers both said in unison to the first guard.
The first guard nodded.
"Good," he replied, "make sure it's secure and then make a place for the hero."
At hearing that, Ilia gasped from up the stairs.
"Where are you taking him?" she demanded. "You can't just take a man against his will!"
I closed my eyes briefly.
"Yes they can Ilia," I said quietly, "especially if it's mandated by the queen."
Ilia then looked at me confused. "The queen?" she repeated.
The confusion seemed to spread to everyone, particularly Rusl and Bo.
"What are you talking about?" Bo demanded. "Are you telling me the queen ordered this?"
The first guard then intervened.
"It would be best if none of you delved your nose into this too deeply," he warned. "This is a matter between her majesty and Master Link, it is not a matter that concerns any of you."
After his direct words, there was a hush in the small crowd of Ordonians. No one was expecting this, no one. A moment later, a horse was brought forward for me, and I mounted it without any questions asked. There was already going to be talk of this with my friends all night, and I didn't want to make this embarrassing scene anymore discomfit.
The first guard then snapped his fingers and directed his men in the opposite direction.
"Let's ride!" he ordered.
With that, the small cavalry with me in tow took off for Hyrule Castle. I looked over my shoulder at my friends and tried to give looks of confidence.
"Everything is going to be okay," I called back to them.
None of them were reassured by that, and I knew deep down myself, nothing was going to be okay. I had no idea what was in store for me at the castle. I just hoped and prayed that Zelda would give me a chance to speak.
I hope to Hylia that she's reasonable tonight, I thought, I hope that for her sake and my sake as well.
~SSS~
Hyrule Castle, The Counsel Room: Three Hours Before Midnight (Link's POV)
I was escorted down the hall via her majesty's royal guard and was told to wait outside the counsel room for further instructions. I still had yet to understand my exact reasons for being here. The information I was given was obscure, but considering what I had been involved in these past few weeks, I didn't have to ponder too deeply. Somehow, some way, this situation was related to my search for Midna. The only problem now I had was, how in the world did her majesty find out about it. I knew this thought process was wrong, but if all she had were vague inclinations, then I would simply deny what was being accused of me. Honestly, I could have been looking for anything, there was no way she could pinpoint me as to looking for just the mirror alone.
When I thought about that, I actually felt a small pang of guilt. I couldn't believe how different I was from the man I used to be. Only a short time ago I never would have entertained the idea of lying to the queen. However, I knew for the greater good I needed to keep this matter confidential, and fibbing was the only way to do it. I had already made up my mind that in the next few days my search would end anyway. There was no questioning that I was eager to see my precious Midna again, but the risk of finding her was now becoming too great. Maybe it just wasn't meant to be after all. I just hated that it had to end like this.
In the case of Queen Zelda, I knew there were two motivating factors at play here: her possible jealousy in my search, and more importantly the respect of her throne. Regarding the first I knew she had a right to feel what she felt, and I wasn't going to sugarcoat being an instigator of leading her on, but I didn't believe she was a woman driven by her emotions. She was a diplomatic person who made tough decisions everyday. She wasn't going to let this matter turn into a spurned woman's melodrama. In the case of the second matter, there was no denying I went directly against a royal command, and this was the factor I was most concerned with. The queen's decree was sounded throughout the land for everyone to hear. There was no excuse for me not to understand what she had mandated. Zelda could go about this in two ways: she could go the example making route and have me arrested, or she could find the kindness within that huge heart of hers and let me go free with a warning. Considering she was still in love with me, I didn't think she would risk putting me in prison. The repercussions of that would be huge or her. Maybe that was a little presumptuous, but I did save the kingdom twice and I asked for nothing for that in return. There was also the consideration of all that I had done when I was head of the counter insurgency team. The propositions to Dragon Roost, the tax levies and relief for the poor, making a more secure and efficient use of resources for the military. There was a lot not to be overlooked. I wasn't one to normally toot my own horn, but in this case I felt a little tooting was necessary.
I sighed and ran a hand through my hair when the minutes ran on. I had been waiting for at least hour since I arrived to the castle. I wasn't sure if this questioning were public knowledge yet or not, but I was certain my friends in Ordon were probably on there way here. The looks on everyone's faces said it all even when I tried to reassure them that everything was okay. However, being taken away via a royal guard was none to reassuring. I just hoped everyone tried to remain calm and not do anything that would be considered rash. The last thing I wanted or needed was a way to make this situation worse.
A moment later the door to the counsel room opened, and surprisingly, but not so surprisingly if that made sense, Shad came out to summon me. I raised a brow at his presence and was a little taken aback that the questioning was going to take place with him there. I was hoping I was afforded a little more courtesy than this, but it seemed the queen was not in a courteous mood.
Shad looked stoic, but I could sense a little inkling in his eyes. "Her majesty will see you now Master Link," he said to me.
I gave him a quick once over and nodded, then was escorted inside with the three remaining guards who brought me up via the cavalry. The counsel room was dark that evening with fire urns burning low in the four corners as the only illumination. The queen was sitting on her throne dressed in all black, looking regal, but serious all at the same time. The satchel the guards had confiscated was placed at the foot of her throne and looked like it had been rummaged through, and judging from the look on her face, she was not pleased with what she had found. She was stone faced when we made eye contact.
"That's far enough," she stated quietly, and the guards and I didn't proceed any farther.
I knew from the look on her face that this was probably not going to end well. Zelda interlaced her fingers and sat erect on her throne before addressing me directly.
"Master Link," she started, "it cannot be a surprise as to why you are here, and so to forego the shenanigans of idle talk I think it's appropriate that we proceed with the questioning."
I felt my heart pound at her direct words and tried to deflect anyway.
"I'm afraid I am still in the dark as to why you had me brought here this way your majesty," I replied, "I haven't the slightest idea with what you mean."
Queen Zelda raised a brow and was quiet for a moment. She wasn't going to play this game with me today.
"Master Link you are very well aware why you are here," she said firmly, "stop trying to circumvent these proceedings with ignorance, or more frankly with stupidity."
I looked at her stunned and then clamped my mouth shut.
She was dead serious.
"It has been brought to my attention by the most unorthodox means possible that you have been on a scavenger hunt of sorts, is that true?" she inquired.
I hesitated before I answered, hoping I could weed her out in some way, but given her general disposition she was giving me nothing to work with.
"I don't go on scavenger hunts," I said carefully. "If there was anything that captured my attention, then it would have to be something of the utmost importance."
She found that little saying of mine telling, and raised a brow.
"Is that so?" she asked.
I nodded.
"Yes, my lady," I replied.
She grunted thoughtfully.
"Well then, answer me this, have you been traveling lately?" she asked.
I needed to be careful.
"No more than I usually do your majesty," I replied.
Her expression didn't change.
"Is it normal for you to be gallivanting around Hyrule for idle pursuits?" she went on.
I knew what she was trying to get me to say.
"I go riding on my Epona almost daily to keep up with my skills," I replied, "whether that's considered gallivanting I leave to you."
She took in a deep irritated breath.
"That isn't what I asked you," she replied, "I warn you not to be deceiving to me Master Link, you've done that enough, it will only make things harder for you. Now, answer the question I asked of you."
I wasn't surprised at her tone, but I was a little taken by the poignancy of her words and attitude.
She is most definitely not messing around tonight, I thought.
"No, your majesty," I replied finally, "no, I don't simply go on idle pursuits."
She stared me down for a moment before snapping her fingers.
"I thought so," she said more to herself than to me.
At the beckoning, Shad came up next to her, grabbed the bag at her feet, opened it, and handed her the folded map I used to procure the three leather canvasses. This situation was disintegrating quickly. She unfolded it, skimmed through it, then handed it to Shad to give to me.
"Have him look at this," she said to the scholar.
Shad nodded, then in turn came down the steps and handed the map to me. When I received it I pretended to go over it like it was foreign to me. It didn't seem to fly over too well with the queen.
"Would you mind telling me what the significance of those three locations marked in red?" she inquired.
I paused for a moment, trying to think of something careful to say. If I went about this the wrong way, I could make this situation ten times worse. I was already treading on thin ice.
"They..." I started, "they were potential locations for finding the Rue Morgues."
There was a brief silence after I divulged that.
"They were what?" she asked.
I swallowed hard.
"They were potential locations for finding the Rue Morgues," I repeated.
After hearing that again, all she did was stare at me.
"Oh really?" she inquired after several seconds.
I wasn't too keen to her tone.
She obviously didn't believe me.
"Yes really," I replied.
She sat back on her throne and looked from me to the bag Shad was holding knowingly. She knew I wasn't telling the truth, but I was in so deep now, there was no turning back for me.
"When did you start your search for the Rue Morgues?" she asked.
I stared at her back and realized this was looking worse for me.
"Several weeks ago," I replied.
She nodded for some reason.
"While you were still head of the counter insurgency team," she said, then added, "you handed in your resignation over two weeks ago, correct?"
I didn't like how this was going because I knew exactly where this was leading to. It was obvious she had seen the canvasses and was going to out me on my lie. Although, she had no way on knowing that that wasn't what I was trying to do. A few markings on a map meant nothing, they were simply what they were, a few markings on a map, and a few pieces of leather were simply a few pieces of leather.
"That... that is correct," I replied.
She then sat forward after my utterance.
"Than can you clear up some confusion for me," she said suddenly, "why, if you were searching for the Rue Morgues the way you say, are you digging up artifacts at these same locations?"
I stiffened slightly even though I knew that was coming.
I didn't reply, but she waited for me to answer.
"Hmm Master Link?" she pressed, then held out her hand where Shad opened the bag and pulled out the three leather canvasses. "What exactly does a saying roughly stated like: 'tempus enim ingressus est in termino' have to do with finding wanted fugitives?"
I still didn't have an answer to her inquiries because there was no way for me to explain those details away. Those artifacts were indeed in my possession and my whole explanation of looking for the Rue Morgues suddenly became a moot point. She wasn't going to believe anything I said in that regard now. Every step forward I was being circumvented by being forced two steps back.
Again, Zelda waited for my reply.
"Has silence become your new mainstay Master Link?" she asked. "Do you not want to explain yourself in these matters?"
I wished that were possible, but I complicated things to a point of no return.
"I... I wish I had something to tell you that would be satisfactory," I replied.
She looked at me stunned for a moment and seemed offended in how I put that. I certainly wasn't helping myself, it wasn't the smartest thing for me to say.
"Satisfactory?" she repeated. "All I want from you is the truth," she stated bluntly, "and for whatever reason, I can't seem to get that from you. Why are you so convinced that I want to listen to this runaround?"
I shook my head.
"It isn't my intention to give you the runaround," I said.
That reply was set up perfectly for her next question.
"Good, then tell me this," she began, "it has been brought to my attention by the most unorthodox means possible that you were actually at these locations after your resignation of the CIT, for which now your entire previous explanation has been nullified, do you care to explain that?"
I felt my heart stop for a second.
I wasn't expecting this.
Wait a minute... how in the world would she know about that? I wondered.
There was another silence hushed over the hall. I paused for a long moment, thinking I was going to have to be a little brazen and bold, but the only way that could work was if I were convincing. I had to know how she was made aware of this.
"With all due respect your majesty," I started, "the only way that you could know something of that nature is if you were having me watched."
The guards surrounding me looked at me astonished. A pin drop could be heard from the held in gasps from the others in the room. The queen's face didn't change, but Shad standing next to her looked at me shocked and stunned, he almost uttered something himself, but remained silent. I knew I was teetering on that line of disrespect, but at this point I had to take some bold action. This was a very critical situation for me, one where natural conventions had to take a back saddle to up front precedents. However, even with my notorious tongue, Queen Zelda didn't seem taken in by my words. In fact, she seemed more disappointed that I went that route more than anything.
She took in a deep sigh and gave me a quick once over.
"You think I'm having you watched Master Link?" she asked rhetorically. "Is that how you believe all of this came to my attention?"
I paused once more, not quite as gung ho as I once was, and now alerted to the fact that I was definitely out of the loop on something. She wouldn't have uttered that if what I accused of her was true. I didn't reply.
The queen went on at my lack of reply.
"If that is your position, then it is my duty to inform you about how I received this information," she said, then snapped her fingers again and Shad handed her a stationery from a nearby table. When in hand, she looked over the letter, then back to me and held up the paper. "I was not having you watched my good man, but whoever the author of this letter was."
At hearing that, I felt all the blood drain from my face.
That was impossible and insane all at the same time.
"W-what?" was all I could whisper.
She narrowed her eyes slightly at me just then, knowing she just caught me off guard.
"This letter was sent to me anonymously stating that you, Master Link, were not on a hunt for the missing Rue Morgues," she divulged, "but that you were looking for a way to reconnect to the Twilight Realm."
I didn't know what to say. I was dumbfounded. How in the world could I possibly reply to an accusation like that? The truth was spot on. There was another tense silence between us. There was no way any of this could be possible, unless... unless...
Oh... my... goddess, I thought.
I felt my eyes widen slightly when a horrible realization just hit me. I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to believe it. The only way this could all be possible was if I had unsuspectingly been a blind fool and walked straight into a trap like Auru had warned me against weeks ago. That was the only explanation that made sense.
This can't be happening, I thought.
However, when I pondered back and went over my search, I mean truly went over my search, I began to see all the holes I had overlooked. It had been ridiculously convenient how the map just fell into my hands with Bastion finding it in the alleyway the way he did. It was becoming more and more obvious to me now that it was planted there. Another fact was the locations were already cartographed, lined, were easily accessible with no real obstacles, and were marked in red ink. No map in all of my adventuring was ever that cut and dry, it usually took a compass with it to mark it properly. However, that glaring detail was one I chose to ignore in my obsessive pursuit for the woman I loved. Also too, there were the artifacts themselves. I was already beginning to think something wasn't altogether legit with them, given how the materials weren't of ancient means. However, now after finding out the true reason for these judiciary proceedings, it was becoming more and more apparent to me that the items were indeed faux. Perhaps the most blatant and obvious detail of all was the messaging itself. That particular syntax wasn't found anywhere in Hylian ancient codex. To be honest, the language wasn't even obscure, and when I thought about it with more clarity, the words almost came off as more of a taunt than a clue: 'tempus enim ingressus est in termino...' '
The time for adventuring is finished... I thought.
I was beginning to get an idea as to how and why this was all happening. The truth was even crazier than what was happening here. That 'clue' wasn't a clue at all, but a taunt from the man who authored that letter to the queen.
"Can I... can I see that letter my lady?" I asked all of a sudden.
Queen Zelda gave me another once over, but then hesitated for a moment. She was probably determining whether or not she should entertain my request. The trust she once felt for me was apparently gone. However the tug-o-war seemed to be short lived, because after a few seconds she handed the letter to Shad to give to me.
"Certainly," she replied.
When the scholar handed me the letter, I skimmed through it immediately and felt the pit of my stomach drop. It was just as I suspected, this letter had the vice and venom of Vincent Rue Morgue written all over it. I couldn't believe some of the stuff he divulged: a former member of the Brotherhood of Hyrule? A keeper of secrets? Having the hero watched closely? All this language pointed solely and squarely to him, who else would be so meticulous? It was incredible, it even had information detailing me roving about the land, looking for access points to the Twilight Realm. It even had accusations of my intentions, I couldn't believe it. How could her majesty not see it was from Vincent?
As I read the contents, the room was again quiet. Zelda's patience was wearing thin regarding this matter and it was beginning to show.
"Well Master Link?" she asked. "What say you to that?"
I looked from the letter to the queen again and hoped it wasn't too late to turn this situation around.
I have to do something, I thought, I can't go down without a fight.
"Your majesty this letter is a fallacy," I said suddenly, "it was designed to keep you off the trail from what's really happening here."
Zelda looked at me surprised by my words, but then her surprise turned into mild contempt.
"What are you talking about?" she demanded.
I took a small step forward, but the guards near me immediately kept me in check.
"Watch yourself," one of them warned.
I ignored him.
"This letter was sent to you to thwart you off the trail of Vincent Rue Morgue my lady," I said point blank.
Zelda took in a deep, irritated breath.
"That's ridiculous," she replied.
I shook my head.
"Please," I began, "hear me out before you dismiss what I have to say, it may be of some help to you."
I could tell from her eyes she was tired of giving me all these chances with nothing in return, but I was also aware she was a woman who didn't like to do things prematurely.
"Very well," she said finally, "you have two minutes, go."
I was surprised at hearing her say that, but I wasn't going to argue with it.
"My lady," I started, "it is my belief that this whole ordeal was a ploy put into place by the senior Rue Morgue. Seeing how the canvasses found in each location read more as taunts than clues, that should show that this was nothing more than a trap from the beginning. Think about how all this came about: I was conveniently being watched, I conveniently found the clues with no problem, then suddenly a letter comes to you stating all these things. If you wanted my honest opinion, it plays like madness. There is no rhyme or reason to any of this, other than it's a trap. "
Zelda was quiet for a moment, taking in everything I said, then slowly nodded at the rationale. I wasn't sure what to make of that, but I was at least grateful that she heard me out.
"That's quite a compelling argument you make Master Link," she said with a slight nod, "one where I might have entertained what you had to say. However, there are a few things I simply cannot overlook in this new found sense of revelation of yours." She looked me straight in the eyes. "Your intentions only a moment ago were not so noble. You came to this court hoping to lie to me and thinking you were going to get away with it."
I shook my head, I had to get her to see things for what they were.
"Your majesty-" I tried.
"Did you not state that you weren't looking for an access point to the Twilight Realm, but was mandating your search for the Rue Morgues?" she interrupted calmly. "Did you not say that Master Link?"
I just realized what I had done to myself.
"Yes..." I replied reluctantly, "but that was only because-"
"Were you not acting rogue against the command ordered by this throne?" she went on. "Did you or did you not go against my order and look for the Twilight Realm against my wishes anyway?"
My heart began to pound.
"It wasn't to go against your wishes per se..." I said, not really knowing how to reply to that, "I had my own personal reasons my lady."
She narrowed her eyes at me fully this time.
"Yes you did," she almost said in a whisper, "and apparently even my command is worth defying for your own selfish pursuits."
I looked at her surprised that she allowed a little bit of the hurt she was feeling creep into her voice.
"My lady..." I trailed, and another silence enveloped the room.
Zelda looked away and shook her head.
"I'm afraid this time I cannot allow you to slip through the cracks Master Link," she said with a hint of finality, "defiance against the law is something I have zero tolerance for." She then turned her attention to Shad. "Please read the charges set against him."
I looked at the queen stunned.
She was really going to do this.
She was really going to have me arrested.
Wait a minute what? I thought in disbelief.
"Charges?" I repeated.
Zelda didn't bother to acknowledge me now and kept her face turned away. Shad, who looked nervous and confused while this was all happening, opened a scroll and cleared his throat to begin reading from it.
"'Link, Hero of Twilight and former counselor of the throne, you are hereby charged with the crime of treason against the crown...'" he read.
His words sounded like a trail as I felt numb and couldn't believe this was happening.
Treason? I thought. She's not even going to listen to reason?
"Your majesty," I started desperately, knowing I was grasping at strings, "are you not going to take what I said into consideration?"
Zelda kept her face turned away and didn't reply.
Shad kept reading, "...the court has fully weighed the matters on the scales of justice and you have been found insufficient..."
I felt like I was going to lose my mind, Zelda was totally stone faced.
I looked around the room helplessly.
"You-you can't do this my lady," I went on, "this isn't the Hylian way!"
She still didn't reply.
"...the sentence of this court is confinement for thirty days, after which your fate will be decided..." Shad's voice echoed in the background.
My breathing accelerated.
"Imprisonment?" I repeated incredulously. "You're going to have me jailed? You're really going to do this after all I've done!"
Zelda still didn't acknowledge me, and the guards came closer. They were ready to apprehend me if I did anything deemed threatening.
"...citizens must know that favor is not given to those who have privileges, and that privileges are only a reward for loyal service, seditious acts are not overlooked by years of service..." the scholar continued.
I felt my eyes widen with a desperation I didn't know I could feel.
"What about Vincent and Morgana?" I demanded. "They're still out there!" I said angrily. "The people set out to destroy Hyrule are still out there your majesty! What are you going to do about that?"
Still, I was given nothing, and only met with silence.
My blood began to boil, but I tried to calm down.
"Your majesty," I said.
She wouldn't look at me.
"...the honor of Hyrule has been established for over a thousand years, such honor cannot be interrupted..." Shad was saying.
I took a step forward, but now the guards beside me were on full on alert.
"Step back Master Link," the one to the right said to me.
Again, I ignored him.
"...Hylia, the Goddess of the Land, established these laws as a governance to the Triforce..." the scholar continued in the background.
I wasn't listening to anything at this point.
"Your majesty," I said again a little more loudly.
Both guards now stepped forward.
"Master Link I told you to step back," the one who addressed me before said.
Zelda still wouldn't look at me, and I wasn't about to just be dragged away like some common criminal without her acknowledging me.
"Your majesty look at me!" I demanded. "You know what I'm telling you is the truth! You know that!"
"Master Link-" the other guard tried, but I snatched my shoulder from his grip.
I took another step forward.
"You're going to let your anger with me prevent you from doing what's right?" I said angrily. "I thought you were bigger than that!"
Zelda reacted a little to my words and then cut her eyes to me.
"I would watch my tongue if I were you," she warned.
The guards tried to apprehend me again.
"Be quiet!" one of them snapped. "You're already in enough trouble."
I didn't care, I wasn't going to go quietly.
"Your majesty," I said.
However, she again didn't reply.
"...therefore one of Hyrule's greatest heroes..." Shad was saying.
The guards came and forced my arms behind my back.
"You're getting too rowdy for my liking," the first said.
I didn't care.
"Your majesty!" I said with a little more conviction.
"...must answer for the crimes put forth before him today..." the scholar went on.
I got louder.
"Your majesty!" I said again.
Still, all she did was stare.
"...and the people must know that the law rules in Hyrule..." Shad read.
I had enough of this.
She was going to acknowledge me.
"Zelda! You can't do this! You can't!" I said, which made every person in the room fall silent, even Shad reading from the scroll.
Zelda's icy blue eyes then met mine and she interlaced her fingers elegantly in her lap.
"I'm afraid you left me no choice," she said calmly. "The privilege for you to call me that is gone. You heard what was just said Master Link, the law rules in Hyrule."
My eyes widened in disbelief as I felt the shackles being bounded to my wrists.
This can't be happening... I thought incredulously, this can't.
Zelda looked away once more.
"Take him away," she said with a hint of finality.
The whole room hazed from white to black in my disbelief. The guards immediately turned with me in tow to the exit, and when we left I looked at the closed counsel room door dumbfounded. That was when the terrifying reality did indeed hit me. This was happening, and there wasn't anything I could do about it.
Nothing at all.