Inspiration: "The Locator," a show about finding long lost loved ones, the Roman philosopher Seneca, unexpected reunions, sins of the father... sins of the past, a betrayer's kiss, and the best laid plans.
Special Dedication: This chapter is dedicated to OdnetninAdlez. I sincerely feel like he's my kindred spirit from across the large Atlantic pond lol. He will always be one of my greatest inspirations.
Re-edited 5/30/2015
Word Count: 13,968
Chapter 30
My Dearest Zelda,
I was very glad to hear from you recently, and I was quite
surprised with everything you told me in your last letter. Please know that you have
my unyielding support one hundred and ten hundred percent. Actions against
the throne of Hyrule will not be tolerated in Dragon Roost, we are allies.
Since your suspicions, I have made it my secret past time to search the palace. It did take
a little effort, but I am happy to report that I have found the whereabouts of Morgana Rue Morgue.
She's currently hiding out in the dragon mines under the guise of being a maiden, and from the reports
hailed about her, she's been acting like a little terror down there. I haven't approached her yet, but
I plan to soon. I want her to still think she's safe. If she knew I was looking for her she might
disappear again, and that would be disastrous. How she was able to sneak into Dragon Roost right
under my nose still eludes me, but she won't escape now that she's here. I know she still plans to act
on her delusions of grandeur, and anything that means hurting you, I am vehemently against.
Just know I love you very much my dear queen, and I'm thinking about you constantly.
If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask. I will write to you soon with an update.
Forever Your Prince,
~Elbourne of Dragon Roost~
At the letter's end, I sighed gratefully and felt a huge weight of relief lift off me knowing that Elbourne was going to cooperate. From the context of his words, he even seemed eager, which was rare for him. I wondered what the delusions were he was speaking about regarding Morgana. However, I didn't give it too much thought. Afterwards, I looked across the room at my dear friend Lydia, who was working so diligently at repairing a tapestry in the anteroom, and motioned for her to come over to me. When she saw my gesture, she stopped her work immediately, and came right over.
She was wiping her hands as she walked up.
"Yes my lady?" she inquired.
I wanted to be expeditious with my orders.
Time was not on my side.
"Please fetch Master Bastion from the Situation Room and tell him to come here at once," I ordered, "I have some good news for him. Make sure you mention that it's urgent and for him to please hurry."
Lydia nodded with no questions asked.
"At once my lady," she replied with a slight curtsy, and afterwards hurried off to follow my command.
I watched after her as she left out the door, and when I was alone, I took in another deep sigh and thought about Link just then. I would never forget that look on his face when he last saw me: the pain, the anger, the hatred, the resentment; it was something that would haunt me for a long time. I sincerely hoped one day he would forgive me, or at least let me atone for what I had done somehow. I just didn't know when that would be, or if that was even feasible right now. I had so much wishful thinking on my part... I just wanted to wish this all away. However, instead of focusing on the negative, or the 'would be's', 'maybe's', and 'if's', I decided to focus on what I could control. I stared down at Elbourne's letter once more, and felt a twinge of hope.
"I will do right by you Link..." I whispered to myself, "I promise."
~SSS~
The Situation Room: Bastion's POV
The cobblestone edifice that made up the Situation Room didn't feel the same, and hadn't felt the same in weeks. With both Auru and Link gone for much different reasons, those of us left behind were merely functioning off the possible desires and decisions the both of them would have probably made. Ashei too was absent, and that was completely understandable as well with her being very pregnant, and her father now dead. When I broke the news to her about Auru, nothing could console her. She had been crying for days now, I was actually worried about her overall condition. How would all this stress affect our baby? For those reasons, I put her on strict bed rest until she felt better. I wasn't Dr. Borville, but I was sure he would agree with me regarding my decision.
Also, Rusl was missing in action as well, he decided to stay behind in Ordon and keep the village afloat since their former leader was now dead. I couldn't imagine the tremendous stress he must have been feeling with all the villagers wondering why Bo was suddenly gone. How would he even break the news? Did he already break the news? What about Bo's daughter Ilia? How was she fairing through all this? Considering the situation of the fallen mayor's daughter, the young lady was still in the care of Dr. Borville. The doctor stated she was stabilizing, and that she was now breathing without the aide of any plants in the room. She hadn't suffered any serious internal damage, but the mental effects were going to be detrimental to her for years to come. There was no sugar coating her plight.
Rusl was dividing his time checking on Ilia, and keeping his fellow villagers abreast on the news of her recovery. Unfortunately, she hadn't opened her eyes yet, and the doctor hoped it was only because her body was in desperate need of rest. He stated she was horribly dehydrated at the time of her fall, and that stressed her body more when she initially came in. The golden chu jelly did its job, but the major blood loss caused her body to go into something he called hypovolemic shock. The shock hit a very critical stage when she was actively miscarrying her baby. Fortunately, the doctor was able to get to her in time to reverse it. However, that still wasn't going to comfort her when she woke up and found out both her father and baby were dead. I knew this was selfish, but I was glad I wouldn't have to be the one to tell her the news, it would simply be too much to bear.
I shook my head at the thought.
That poor girl, I couldn't help but think.
Moving along, Link was still being stubborn and refused to come and work at the castle. Considering everything that happened to him, I didn't blame him, but he also needed to understand that it was harder to get things done always meeting with him on Hyrule Field instead of a more confirmed location. However, that was his preference, and that was how he wanted to proceed. I could definitely tell he was a different man now. He was much more serious, and the glint of happiness that used to shine in his eyes was gone. The fact that he killed Vincent without so much as a flinch, proved that he was a man not to be messed with. He hadn't shaved since he was released from prison, but I think he was going to do so after Morgana's demise. That beard represented more than his time behind bars. Something in his nomadic appearance was indicative of the loss he felt within his soul: his freedom at one time, his sense of morals, his child, his friends, his love for that woman Midna... his trust in Queen Zelda. He appeared to be a man now searching for what he lost. I honestly didn't know how he was functioning from day to day. He was eating very little, and sleeping even less. He seemed normal, but he was definitely keeping his feelings at bay. I kept an extra eye on him to make sure he was okay for now, and so far his only focus was on his objective, Morgana.
I hope he doesn't let his despair consume his life, I thought.
I looked across the table just then at Shad, who was feverishly scribbling in his deposition book some notes from an experiment he had gathered info on. The scholar, turned personal steward to the queen, looked haggard this morning, mainly because he was juggling so many duties that had so much importance. I didn't know if the queen had him on any personal field assignments, but from his being the primary tactician, record keeper, steward, and adviser to the queen, he certainly had his hands full. Couple all that responsibility with losing his dear friend Auru, it was safe to say he was under a great deal of stress. I asked him if he needed any help with his work, he stated for the most part he was fine, but if he needed assistance, he would ask for it. I certainly hoped he would, I didn't want anything happening to him. We were already shrinking in numbers as it was.
Don't hesitate to open your mouth Shad, I thought, I don't need you suffering in silence.
My contemplation then came full circle when I related it back to me. There wasn't much to say on my regard. I just wanted to find Morgana, and move on with my life. I knew now there was no way I could play a dual role with my life any longer. Once this was all over, I was going to take Ashei and my child away from here. I found a remote cottage at the base of Snowpeak Mountain, and decided to raise my family there. It was getting too dangerous for us to stay in town with all the social upheaval going on. There was also no telling who was a spy from the brotherhood or not. Yes, one of the headmasters had been found out, but now that same headmaster was dead. I had a sickening feeling his death wasn't a mere accident on Morgana's part, but a calculated action to have him taken out. If that was the case, then there was no doubt in my mind that the other headmaster was the one who initiated it. If he knew who Auru was, and could take him out like nothing, then there was no doubt he probably knew who I was as well. I was possibly next on the hit list, and if he couldn't get to me, he was probably going to go after my wife Ashei. The only persons with access to that information were the headmasters of the society. Auru was dead, and this other man was still very much a mystery to me. I had no idea who he was, and he could probably be watching me right now.
That wasn't paranoia, that was the truth.
The brotherhood was very powerful.
With Morgana being one of the chief culprits of Auru's death, there was no reason for me not to believe that she was a member of the brotherhood as well. She was good at keeping secrets. Her dispensing a sex trade and making it look legal said droves about her sense of ambiguity. She probably had been looking for an opportunity like the other day for some time now to execute what orders were given to her. I knew they were orders because she had no real motive, or reason to go after Auru. Auru didn't know her personally the way I did. She had no other reason to desire his death except at the beckoning, the word, and the whim of someone else who now despised him. That someone else was the second headmaster. I could tell the two men leading the brotherhood were drifting apart for some time. They tried to hide it, but when I was receiving orders from only one person primarily, I knew there was dissension in the ranks. Something significant had gone on between the two of them to cause a rift that was irreparable. Unfortunately, Auru paid for the significance with his life, and there was very little for me to go on in terms of who this other headmaster was. Before Link executed his vengeance on Morgana, I hoped she would divulge that information. I needed to find that man for my fallen father-in-law's sake. I had a strong feeling she probably knew the true identity of the other headmaster, and if that was the case, then I needed her to tell me that name.
She's not as cunning as her brother, I thought, but she is pretty damned resourceful.
I took in a deep sigh at all this contemplation, and was neither encouraged nor further discouraged by it. It was merely the organization of my thought process, and as such, my reflection led me into the present. I was currently going over some maps of the tunneling underground waterways in hopes of finding another entrance into Dragon Roost, when there was an abrupt knock, knock, knock on the door. Surprised at the brief interruption, I stopped what I was doing, and looked over at Shad a little alarmed. The scholar too was caught off guard by the sudden disturbance. We were told we wouldn't be bothered by anyone.
I inquired of the scholar.
"Are you expecting anyone?" I asked him.
Shad shook his head no.
"Not that I can think of off the top of my head," he replied.
I groaned slightly at his answer. It was no secret that we were working tirelessly to find the Rue Morgue sister, and it was imperative we weren't halted for nonsensical matters. Hopefully this wasn't some matter related to something, or someone that could have been taken care of in another way. The CIT couldn't be all things to all people the way it used to. We simply didn't have the man power. When the knock sounded again, this time I got up to see who was calling.
"Come in," I called as I stood.
Without wasting a moment, the person on the other side came through the door. It was her majesty's personal servant Lydia. Surprised to see her, I raised a brow. Generally the queen would send a courtier to call on us, not her personal servant. Her majesty sending this young lady told me that whatever her majesty wanted done, she wanted done in earnest.
What has happened now? I wondered.
The servant girl bowed and made herself known directly to me.
"Master Bastion her majesty requests to see you immediately," she said to me, "she says it's quite urgent."
I looked at her taken aback.
"Did she inform you what it was related to?" I inquired.
Lydia shook her head no.
"She hasn't uttered a word to me," she replied.
Not expecting to hear this so soon, I glanced over at Shad again and got a little hopeful just then.
"Do you think it's good news?" I asked him.
He looked between me and Lydia and sighed.
His feelings were wayward.
"There's only one way to know for certain, go find out," he replied, "don't worry, I'll hold down the fort until you get back."
I nodded at his practicality, and directed my attention back to Lydia.
"We shouldn't waste time then," I said to her, "please lead the way."
She nodded in reply with no hesitations.
"This way my lord," she said and hurried out the door down the hall.
I followed after her to the queen's chamber.
Perhaps the day was looking up.
~SSS~
The Queen's Chamber: Zelda's POV
The quick tap on the door signified to me that my dear Lydia upheld my orders with the utmost expedition and had now returned.
"You may enter," I said, not bothering to ask who it was.
When the door opened, and Bastion was in tow with my dear friend, I stood immediately. They both bowed out of respect, I returned the greeting as well, but then got right to the point. I didn't want to waste a moment.
"Lydia you may leave us," I stated first.
My friend initially looked disappointed, but she understood this situation wasn't for her ears. She curtsied again, then turned and headed for the door. When the door was closed behind her, I walked up to Bastion slightly excited. He was probably surprised at my actions, as his face seemed to read that way.
"Is everything alright?" he asked me.
It couldn't have been better.
"I have some good news," I said in a low voice.
The good man nodded at my prompt.
"What news is that my lady?" he asked.
I pointed to the table where the letter laid.
"I just got confirmation that Elbourne is going to be cooperative and work with us," I said. "He stated it very bluntly, and in fact knows where Morgana is hiding within the country."
Bastion gave me a thoughtful look.
He wasn't as excited as I.
He was erring on the side of caution, which I probably should have as well.
"How sure are you of this my queen?" he asked.
I understood his doubt, but wished to dispel it.
"Quite sure," I said, then went back to the table and picked up the letter, "here," I came back over and handed the stationery to him, "read it yourself."
He looked at me surprised and shook his head.
"I don't think I should," he said, "Prince Elbourne may have written some things to you that are personal in nature, I wouldn't-"
I shook my head.
"Don't worry about that," I interrupted, "just read it."
His eyes widened slightly at my tone, and he still wasn't gung ho about reading my private mail, but then he reluctantly took the letter to read it. He looked like he briefly skimmed it instead of full fledged reading it, which I understood, but found to be unnecessary. He then handed it back to me.
"It's just as you have said your majesty," he stated, "it looks like you were right to trust his word."
I couldn't help but smile.
"We have her," I said in a voice I almost didn't recognize, "we have her Master Bastion!" I repeated with more conviction. "Please relay this news to Master Link, and let me know what your and his course of action will be afterwards. I will do whatever he deems necessary to follow up on this lead."
Master Bastion nodded.
"Yes my lady," he replied.
I was grateful he was still so loyal to me, but then instead of pivoting on his heel to leave right away, he stayed a moment and gave me a long once over. It was a look of open concern. He always seemed to carry that look on his face when we talked. It was almost like a natural aspect of his character.
This prompted me to ask him, "What's the matter?"
He merely shook his head, but then paused before he decided to go on.
He looked like he was contemplating something else.
"Permission to speak freely my lady?" he asked suddenly.
My eyes widened slightly, and I stiffened at his inquiry. Those words often led to conversations that were uncomfortable for me. Whenever my servants needed to tell me something plainly, it was often because they saw my actions as cynical in some way. Nothing in terms of my contacting Elbourne was cynical, it was actually a suggestion given to me by Master Link, and it happened to work. I just hoped Bastion wasn't inferring in some way that I had ill motives. Those days were gone. I wasn't going to be a vindictive person any longer. I had learned my lesson. However, I was also aware that with my station in life, discomfort was a mainstay with my occupation. Queens were often put in compromising situations. After several seconds of quick contemplation, I nodded slowly. In fact, I thought I had a pretty good idea what he was going to ask me.
A mandatory question about Master Link... I thought, I guess I am an open book when it comes to that man.
"Why?" I asked.
Instead of being defensive about the request, Bastion just shrugged.
"Because I have a question outside of etiquette lines to ask you," he replied, "otherwise I would have been more forthcoming from the beginning."
I couldn't lie, his witty way of answering things did make me grin.
"Where did you learn to be so glib?" I asked him.
He grinned in return.
"Years of unconventional study," he replied.
My smile widened, but then I took in a deep sigh, and beckoned for the conversation to go on.
I might as well, I thought.
"Fine good sir," I replied, "go on ahead, permission granted."
Before speaking again, Bastion paused for a moment. He took a step forward and that caring look in his eyes never left. He crossed his arms over his chest.
"How are you holding up?" he asked softly. "How are you fairing in all this?"
Admittedly, he caught me off guard with his questions. I almost didn't have a reply. Everyone, from the guards, to even Elbourne, stemmed to think my mind was forever thinking about Link, which I won't lie, it often did, but not to the point where there weren't some days I didn't give a little reflection and time for myself. There were some days where I needed to step back and analyze how all of this drama was consuming my life. However, I wasn't going to pretend, I was surprised at the question, it actually wasn't what I was expecting.
I raised both brows in unison.
"Me?" I repeated.
Bastion nodded again.
"Yes ma'am," he replied, "you."
I gave myself a moment to ponder his inquiry a little more.
I really didn't have much to say.
"Oh," I said, then sighed, "well, I'm doing okay."
His features softened mildly.
"What does that mean?" he asked. "How are you 'okay'?"
This was going to be a deeper discussion than I thought.
"I guess it does warrant an explanation doesn't it?" I replied. "Well, I simply meant that despite everything, I'm grateful to Hylia that I have a way to atone for my sins. I have a lot to answer for."
He looked at me thoughtfully just then and nodded
"I think we all do my lady," he said, "and you aren't a villain merely because you acted out on emotion once. It just means you're Hylian."
It was nice to hear this from someone other than Elbourne.
"That's very kind of you to say," I said sincerely.
He nodded again.
"I just hope to see you smile once more," he said, "you were doing it so much when Link was around, that I hope you don't go back to looking like a forlorn woman."
His perception was spot on.
I grinned.
"Did I really look that miserable?" I asked.
He thought about the question for a moment before answering.
"Not so much miserable as you did stoic," he replied, "you appeared icy and unapproachable from afar. It was like you internalized the entire thought process of stoicism."
I was used to such adjectives.
"Welcome to the world of politics and diplomacy," I said.
This time he grinned.
"I guess that is true," he replied.
I returned his smile and we became silent once again, one where Bastion again gave me another quick once over. He took a step forward, and looked like another question was waiting to jump off his lips.
"Permission to speak freely again?" he inquired once more.
I raised a brow.
"You already have it," I stated.
He nodded once more, then said, "Please don't take this the wrong way, but you look tired," he started honestly, "beautiful, but tired."
I looked at him surprised.
"I beg your pardon," I said.
He shrugged again.
"It's true," he said.
His honesty made a rare chuckle come out of me.
People were rarely so blunt with me.
"Well, if you must know, I haven't been sleeping very much these past few weeks," I replied, "I think my tiny crows feet are justifiable for such stress."
He nodded.
"I understand," he said, "and you don't have crows feet, it's just the subtle glow in your eyes is gone. When this is all over you should take a week off for rest."
Now he really made me laugh.
What kind of position did he think I held?
A laundress?
"Take a week off from being queen?" I said with open sarcasm. "Do you think that luxury is allotted to a person like me Master Bastion?"
He saw my point and grinned.
"Why not?" he asked anyway.
I shook my head.
"A fitting question, but the answer is simple," I said, "who would look after the kingdom?"
Bastion raised a brow and his smile widened.
"You could let Shad do it for a little while," he joked, "he'd be pretty good at it."
I laughed a little more.
"You're incorrigible," I replied, "you've been associating with Link for far too long."
He raised his hands in mock surrender.
"That probably should be the other way around, but it was just a suggestion," he said, "and I thought queens could do whatever they wanted."
I playfully scoffed.
"Who told you that?" I asked. "The gossip mavens?"
He shrugged again nonchalantly.
"No, no, it wasn't your servant Lydia," he joked.
I let my mouth drop and giggled a little bit at that.
"That was brutal," I said, "she's not even here to defend her honor."
He smirked.
"You have to admit, that girl can talk," he stated.
I chuckled again.
"So I've heard," I replied, "but you're cleverly trying to deviate yourself, and you won't get away with it so easily. So I'll ask you again, who told you such a falsehood?"
He paused again at the inquiry, and for some odd reason looked me deeply in the eyes just then.
It was that same caring look he had earlier.
"It was... it was... no one special," he said, with his voice losing a little of its playfulness, "it was just an assumption I carried on with me from my childhood. I carried a lot of impressions with me from my childhood that proved untrue actually."
I thought that was a strange thing to say since he rarely spoke about his past, but he peaked my curiosity.
"Really?" I said. "And what impressions are those?"
Bastion then became quiet for a very long time, and kept his eyes fixed to the floor.
He didn't reply again for several more seconds.
"I... I don't think it would be anything you would be interested in my lady," he said finally, "a lot of it is peasant nonsense."
I gave him an offhanded look and didn't reply right away.
Wait a minute, what was that all about? I thought. Something doesn't feel right or authentic about that statement.
I took a step forward.
"What do you mean?" I asked anyway.
He shook his head.
"Really, it's nothing," he insisted, "I was talking too much."
I raised a brow and my gaze never faltered. This man could never talk too much for me. I knew there was more to him than he was letting on. I gave him a once over of my own.
What are you hiding? I wondered. What aren't you telling me?
My suspicions must have been becoming more apparent, but I couldn't help it, that haunting familiarity was returning to me from when I first felt it when we traveled together to Dragon Roost. This uncontrollable feeling of foreboding.
"Indeed..." I said, and decided to detract, "you know, if or when I do take that holiday, I'm going to invite you to tea one afternoon, then you're going to come clean of all the secrets swirling around in that handsome head of yours."
I was only half joking.
I think he could sense that too, because instead of smiling, he gave me another brooding stare, and actually, he seemed encouraged by the statement.
"Do you sincerely mean that?" he asked out of nowhere.
I looked at him surprised.
That was another strange thing to say, unless... unless he wanted me to probe him about being forthcoming about something.
"I was being being silly at first," I said, "but if that opportunity comes, I'll hold you to it."
He pursed his lips together and that serious look never left his face.
"I... I hope you keep to your word your majesty," he replied, "there are many things I need to tell you."
I felt my eyes widen just then, and I took an involuntary step back for some reason, but that didn't halt his striking blue gaze. Something in what he just said struck a chord in me. There was a brief silence between us after that made me feel uncomfortable, but it also carried with it a bit of a premonition. I could always tell when something unexpected was about to happen.
What is this feeling? I wondered.
I broke my gaze from him momentarily and looked to the floor because of the power of it. I was going to continue our conversation in a different manner. I often found people were more forthcoming with the use of a fable or story. There was always a confession of some kind in a story, be it subtle or blatant.
"Master Bastion..." I started finally, "have you ever heard of the story of the man in the iron mask?"
He cut his gaze from me just then and hesitated. Bastion was a clever man, maybe too clever at times, and he seemed to always be thinking about the direction of a conversation instead of just answering a question. That caveat to his personality was an excellent survival tactic, but it also proved to me that he was suspicious of things unnecessarily. Only a person hiding something would have that defect in their personality, but I did respect his cautious spirit.
"Yes, I'm familiar with it," he said.
I went on anyway.
"It was the story of two brothers born from royal blood, but one was taken away and hidden for the sake of the throne," I recited in a low voice. "Over time both men grew up, and when the one in the house of the king found out he had a twin, a blood sibling, his corrupt heart impelled him to place his unknowing brother in an iron mask so that no one would ever know there were two of them. For a time this worked, until the king's corruption spread throughout the land and he needed to be stopped. A plan was hatched to get the other brother from behind the mask to take the king's place. It would've worked too, if and only if, one of the guards to the king didn't betray the plan. I could go on, but you get the gist, don't you?"
He continued to avoid my face and simply nodded.
"Yes I do," he replied.
I took another step forward and studied his face for a moment.
"I've always thought there was more to this tale," I continued, "I've always thought the mask represented something much deeper than a real prison. It always struck me that the writer of the story was talking about the figurative mask that everyone was wearing. The faces we put on to protect the people we love... what do you think about that?"
Bastion was again quiet for a long time and took in a deep sigh.
"I think it's an interesting story," he replied mechanically, "but a story nonetheless. There are many moral points in many stories my lady."
I interlaced my fingers together.
He wasn't going to segue into pointlessness that easily.
"There's always some truth to a story Master Bastion," I replied, "always."
He never replied to that.
I was emboldened more to go on.
"Do you want to know an interesting fact about that tale?" I asked, then went on to answer my own question. "That story was written when I was a little girl, I was possibly three at the time of its penning."
Bastion didn't see my point, or chose not to make me aware that he had.
"What's so interesting about that?" he asked.
I paused for a moment before I went on, wanting to proceed carefully with this. I didn't want to become ablaze with conspiracy theories.
"There... there was said to be an incident in the royal family similar in nature near the time I was born," I replied, "a lot of the 'inspiration', if you will, stemmed from that gossip."
Again, Bastion had very little to say.
He was starting to look uncomfortable.
"I see," was all he said in reply.
I gave him an earnest look just then.
"Do you?" I whispered, and I think I struck a chord with him.
He swallowed hard and still said nothing.
"My lady..." he trailed, but didn't finish.
There was another brief silence between us.
"Master Bastion..." I started finally with a trail, then decided to be straight forward, "are you keeping something from me? Are you... are you wearing a mask?"
When I asked him that, he stayed eerily quiet and didn't reply right away. From the look on his face, it seemed like he wanted to say something, but the stubbornness of his own natural disposition prevented him from doing so. Finally deciding on the quandary in his mind, he took in a deep sigh and shook his head.
"Not anything I want to keep from you my lady," he replied, "but it's necessary."
I looked at him puzzled, but felt I was now getting somewhere.
"What kind of answer is that?" I asked him.
Again, he hesitated in replying.
"An honest one," he said finally.
Then, without waiting for an order from me, he bowed and stepped back. I knew that was his way of not wanting to talk about this any longer. I looked at him intrigued, but said nothing in rebuttal to his words. We were met with another onset of silence, until Master Bastion decided to break it.
"Was there anything else related to the Rue Morgue matter besides the letter your majesty?" he asked, changing the subject. "Did his highness state anything otherwise to you?"
I stared at him for a moment and didn't answer him right away.
"No..." I said finally, "no, that's all."
He then nodded, but acted like he wanted to say something else and prevented himself from doing so. Afterwards, he sighed from his own personal frustration and turned to head for the door. I watched him for a few seconds silently. Was I really just going to let him leave when he was so close to telling me the truth? No, and because of such, before he placed his hand on the knob, I stopped him. I couldn't shake this feeling I now had.
I need to know, I thought.
"Bastion wait," I called to him.
The young man stopped in his tracks, and from his body language, I think he knew what I was going to speak of next. He then turned around to look at me.
"Yes my lady?" he replied.
I bit my lower lip and narrowed my eyes at him slightly.
No more stalling, I thought.
"Please tell me the truth," I said, "what are you keeping from me? I must know."
He again didn't reply right away, but that didn't prevent him from lying.
"Nothing," he whispered.
I took another step forward.
My breathing quickened for some reason and I went on.
"Since the story of the mask doesn't stir you, perhaps this will," I began, "do you remember that time I once told you you had a face that rivaled royalty?" I said quietly, almost above a whisper.
This time Bastion decided not to reply at all, and just looked to the ground.
That didn't stop me.
"Well... there's a reason for that," I continued, "you see, you bear a striking resemblance to a man that was once very dear to my heart. In fact, if it wasn't for your black hair, you would look just like him. A man I held in high regard, and even though he had his faults, he tried his best to look for the greater good in others. He was brave, he was loyal to his comrades, but he did have his secrets and weaknesses. I know of some of his secrets. I know of that Gerudo woman who bore him twins when he thought I didn't. I never knew if the twins were identical or fraternal, but I heard of whispers about this birth all throughout my childhood: in gossip, in stories, in my mother's eyes... until I was five years old. Then suddenly the rumors stopped, and it was never mentioned again. At that time, my mother worked very hard to shield me from the talk, but I already knew... I knew I had a brother or a sister out there... somewhere." I took another step forward and lowered my voice a little more. "When you came to Hyrule a few years back, you were like a mystery as you are now. I know nothing about you, but you were always fiercely loyal to me and to the throne without a fault. You always worked hard for the greater good of the people... like a prince. You were never taken in by my beauty in a romantic way, which puzzled me for a time, but now I understand why. Then... then you spoke about your twin sister one day out of the blue, but never mentioned her before or again afterwards. You seriously came to this country like a thief in the night. So... I must ask you now, are you one of those twins born to my father? Are you... are you my brother Master Bastion?"
Bastion stared at me for a long time before saying a word. A pin drop could be heard from the silence that fell over us now. I was quite sure he wasn't expecting me to be so forthcoming, but I didn't know how else to be in a situation like this. We were trained to be secretive for so long, that when a light was finally shined on us, we didn't know how to react in it. Even still, the young soldier didn't reply right away. In fact, he seemed hesitant in replying at all.
"I..." he started finally, "I'm a peasant your majesty."
He was trying to detract.
I wasn't having any of that nonsense today.
Not today.
"Are you my brother?" I asked again.
He finally looked up from the ground at me, and he looked just like my father... just like him.
I felt my eyes widen.
Dear Hylia... I thought, there's no doubt.
Bastion sighed and ran a hand through his black hair.
"I think you know the answer to your question your majesty," he replied.
That was all I needed to hear. I held in a gasp and covered my mouth from a feeling of shock, happiness, and awe all at the same time. Without thinking, I hurried over to him and wrapped my arms around him in a tight hug. Tears filled my eyes immediately.
"I knew it," I whispered in a broken voice, then pulled back to look into his eyes, "I knew it from the moment I saw you."
He didn't say anything in return and just hugged me again.
"I knew you had to hide who you really were for safety reasons," I went on, "but I was aware there was something special about you."
He hugged me tighter.
"Please don't tell anyone," he whispered against my hair, "you have enough to worry about. Besides, that would only tarnish the name of King Daphnes, and he was a good man, though not perfect."
I nodded and wiped my eyes, understanding completely.
"Of course I won't say anything," I whispered, but then stared into his eyes and marveled at how much he looked like my father. "I still can't believe it. I still can't believe after all these years you existed."
He finally smiled again.
"I know," he said, "it's was surprising to me too when my mother told me who my father really was. She always said he was a very important man, I just didn't know how important until I was about sixteen."
It was truly a surreal moment.
"Tell me," I whispered, "is Bastion your real name?"
He shook his head.
"No it isn't," he whispered back, "but I couldn't very well come to Hyrule with the name Daphnes III, could I?"
I smiled and caressed his cheek.
He was named after father, I thought.
"No," I said, "I suppose not."
His eyes searched my face.
"You know you have a sister too," he divulged, "she's my twin, she's in hiding for the very same reason I was in hiding, no one can ever know she's the king's other daughter. That would wreak havoc and scandal to the kingdom."
I couldn't believe all of this was happening at once.
"Where is she?" I asked.
He shook his head.
"I can't tell you," he replied, "I'm sorry it's too dangerous."
I wiped my cheeks of my tears.
"Well, at least tell me what she looks like," I insisted.
Bastion stared at me for a long time before grinning.
"She looks just like you," he replied, "that's not hyperbole either, she could be your twin."
I felt my eyes widen again.
"Really?" I whispered.
He nodded.
"Really," he said.
Another thought then came to mind.
"You know what I just realized," I said, "you and Ashei's baby is going to be my niece or nephew! I can't believe it, I'm going to have to get you a present now!"
Bastion laughed when I said it so excitedly.
"Yes, that's true," he replied.
I reached up and hugged him again.
"This is still so amazing to me," I said, trying to see if this was all tangible, "I can't believe all this is coming to fruition now."
Bastion nodded again.
"I know," he said, "but we have to keep this between you and I for now, no one else can know, not even Link."
At the mentioning of Link's name I looked down and blushed.
"I don't think you need to worry about that," I said, "Link hates me now."
However, Bastion shook his head at my words.
"That's not true," he reassured.
I rolled my eyes.
"I assure you it's true," I said, "he told me himself."
Bastion still didn't take that seriously.
"I wouldn't put too much stock into what he's saying right now," he replied, "he's just mad at the world. I really believe deep down he's still in love with you."
I looked at him surprised.
"Still?" I asked. "You mean there was a time he was?"
He just looked at me.
"You couldn't tell?" he replied. "No man does what he did for you unless he loved you. I think he's still in love with you, and he's just too angry to see that right now."
I felt my bottom lip quiver suddenly, tears refilled my eyes just then.
"I-I-I didn't order for him to be whipped, I swear," my voice broke immediately, but I felt the need to say that, "I would never do that to him, never, even though I acted like a jealous fool."
Bastion reached up and caressed my cheek.
"I believe you, an action like that isn't in your character," he said sincerely, but then smirked and added, "you know, I told him you were the peasant girl that came to see him."
I looked at him stunned.
"What?" I said truly surprised. "How could you tell him that when I didn't even tell you?"
He gave me an obvious stare.
"You aren't exactly inconspicuous with your feelings for Link my lady," he said, "it's very easy to read you when it comes to him. You really are like an open book."
I had no rebuttal for that.
"I guess that is true," I said, but then looked at him oddly for something else, "why are you still referring to me as 'my lady'? That nonsense is over, I'm your sister, please call me Zelda."
Bastion looked at me surprised for a moment.
"I'm sorry," he said, "it's just a force of habit."
I smiled at him.
"I understand," I said, "but please try."
He nodded.
"Well, if that is the case," he started, "you must call me Daphnes in private, that's the only way I'll be able to hear my real name. I can't even tell Ashei."
It was uncanny that after so many years I was able to utter that name again without referencing the dead.
"I'd be glad to," I whispered, "let's start now shall we?"
He grinned at my sentimentality.
"Of course," he said, then cleared his throat, "make sure you keep this between you and I... Zelda."
I nodded and bit my lower lip in happiness.
"Indeed I will... Daphnes," I whispered.
I felt overwhelmed with joy just then as more tears refilled my eyes, and I gave him another hug. I knew he was going to have to depart soon, but after finding out he was my flesh and blood, I didn't want him to. He was really all I had left in the world. He stroked my hair and held me tight.
"I have to go now," he whispered in my ear.
I closed my eyes, not wanting to hear those words.
"I know," I said with a sigh, then pulled back to look at him, "but please be careful out there."
He nodded, but then smiled at me for some odd reason.
"You know, I have feeling Link is going to make his way back to you Zelda," he said suddenly, "I think the both of you will get married, have some kids, and fight like an old married couple. You two will be just like me and Ashei one day."
His words made me blush.
I looked away as a sad expression crossed my face.
"That's all over Daphnes," I said with a hint of finality, "I'm telling you he doesn't love me anymore."
He raised a brow.
"And I'm telling you I see him everyday," he replied, "I know how he thinks, I know this may seem odd, but he and I are a lot alike. He let's things simmer, but he's a forgiving man. He won't hold what you've done against you forever, and then one day you can apologize."
I was hopeful in hearing that, but not unrealistic, I took the man's freedom away, and that was going to take a lot of forgiving.
"We shall see," was all I said in reply.
He nodded.
"We shall," he said, then stepped back and bowed, "I'll call on you soon."
His words made me smile again.
"I look forward to it, and send Ashei my love," I said.
"Of course," he said.
Afterwards, he turned and headed for the exit. I watched after him in awe and wonder. I couldn't believe this was all real.
I wasn't the last Nohanseen after all.
"Will the wonders ever cease?" I whispered to myself with a grin.
~SSS~
Two Days Later, The Servant Quarters in Dragon Roost: Morgana's POV
It wasn't enough that I had to stay in such an underclass distinctive place, but to actually have to do work as a peasant too was just too much. The cavern I labored in was commodious, but uncomfortably hot, with sweltering temperatures not even privy to the Gerudo Desert. Water was used as an irrigation source to cool down metal, but also as a relief for workers, with designated maidens walking around offering the treasured element to all the smiths and other workers down here. I never drank so much water in all my life, but that was because I didn't realize how much work a dragon maid had to do: gathering dragon ore to take to the blacksmith, then after the blacksmith was done utilizing the ore, it was the dragon maid's responsibility to clean the pits. The pits were the blacksmiths work areas. They were dangerous hot spots overlain with remnants of melted metal, and large apparatuses for manufacturing weapons. The pits also consisted of lava coves where minerals were purged or pulverized for purity. The pulverization often led to spontaneous combustion of certain minerals, which also at times, led to a loss of limbs. I saw a man rushed out on a gurney because his arm had been blown off. I couldn't begin to explain how devastating it was to see that poor man writhe in agony like that. I truly felt for him. The lava ran right through the middle of the large crypt where most of the 'smithing' activity took place. Unfortunately, there was more than one account of smiths and maids losing their limbs, or falling to their untimely deaths. One of those bloody accounts was not going to be me.
I groaned at my plight.
I sincerely hate this place, I thought bitterly.
To be frank, I was quite irritated with the fact that Xavier chose this line of work for me. He really must have been annoyed that I came back here to ask for his aide. I could have easily blended in as a noble on holiday, or as a consort, Hylia knew Xavier had plenty of them. I would have even preferred working in the kitchen with the cook over this nonsense he had chosen for me. I wasn't even aware there was such a position known as the bloody dragon maid. However, I tried not to become too entitled with my circumstances, but I was becoming more and more frustrated by the day. For the most part, I just gathered ore, and if I was asked to do more I flat out refused. I was not going to clean one of those goddess forsaken pits. I didn't come to Dragon Roost to die, I came here as a temporary stay. My refusal led to me being reprimanded several times by a lack of food, but it was worth it to me to stay away from such work. I'd rather have a smaller waist than a burned limb. The fact that this was the result of my asking for help from Xavier proved to me he wasn't a true man of honor.
I couldn't get out of Dragon Roost soon enough.
I should have taken my chances soliciting Elbourne, I thought out of nowhere, at least then there would have been some great sex along with the quips.
Speaking of the dragon prince, I knew I wasn't in good standings with him any longer, but I missed him dearly. My mind often went back to the nights we stayed together in the Red Lantern District... and it made me blush. He was the most intense and sensual lover I ever had. He was always so focused on what he did, even the little things, but his eyes always carried a mystery... a devious nature that he was only privy to. That was probably one of the reasons I fell in love with him. He was so different from any man I ever knew. He didn't pretend to be something he wasn't, and he relished his role as the crown prince of Dragon Roost. He would have been the perfect king for me, if only he had the foresight to see it. I didn't understand his obsessive love for Queen Zelda. She was beautiful to be sure, but it was clear to anyone with seeing eyes that she didn't feel for Elbourne what he felt for her. Elbourne was a fool for not seeing that, but he was a fool I still desperately loved.
Since coming here two days ago, I had seen him nearly a dozen times from afar. I had no idea he was so hands on with weapons manufacturing and mineral experimentation. I saw him giving instructions to some of the blacksmiths in preparing the proper tang for a blade, while at the same time taking the hammer and chisel himself, and showing some of the smiths how he wanted the weapons tempered. He did it all without the aide of gear, and that proved to me that he was still the most magnificent man in the world. Who dared to temper swords without gear, especially without gear?
He's simply perfect, I thought.
It even seemed in the past couple days he was spending more time down in the dragon vaults. I wasn't trying to be too paranoid, or even hopeful, but it was almost as if he knew I was there, and he just hadn't made that fact known to me yet. We even made eye contact a few times with him staring at me intently. If that was the case, and he did know it was me, I wasn't going to hide myself from him any longer. If seeing Elbourne meant getting out of this sweltering hell hole, I was more than willing to take the chance. He was a reasonable man, he couldn't have still had that grudge against me.
I wonder if he's forgiven me? I pondered.
As if in tandem with my thoughts, Prince Elbourne suddenly made his daily appearance down the long staircase leading up into the palace. He looked dashing dressed in a dark green and tan tunic as if he was going to go hunting after his visit here. His hair was slicked back, and he finished the look with long stemmed dragon boots. No matter where he went, he always looked like the crown prince he was. I swore he the most handsome creature I ever laid eyes on. Everyone immediately stopped what they were doing when when he entered the vault, and afterwards bowed in unison. Elbourne readily acknowledged that by nodding in return, and began making his way into the commodious crypt, inspecting everything that everyone was doing as he walked by. However, I had to be honest, it seemed as though he were putting up more of a front for inspection than actually doing one. He wasn't even looking over products the way he normally did when he proceeded with his walk throughs. His comments were brief and vague about changes he wanted without any real clarification or specification, and he seemed distracted. Some men he outright walked by without saying a word in relation to what they were doing. It was then I realized he was there for another purpose entirely, and he seemed to be diligently making his way over towards me. I wasn't just stating that as wishful thinking, he really was coming my way.
My heart suddenly skipped a beat
Dear Hylia, I thought excited, had he finally figured out who I was?
When he was about twenty or so feet in front of me with two other maidens beside me, it was then he decided to single me out. The other girls looked nervous too, but that was only until he made his choice known. So... he was coming for me after all.
"You," he said finally directing his words to me.
I was slow to respond, the other two girls also.
I didn't want to make it obvious, and didn't reply right away.
He seemed annoyed that I didn't answer him.
"You," he said to me again a little more loudly, "did you not hear me the first time?"
The other two maidens then stepped back when his focus was clearly on me.
I still stayed in role.
I didn't want to give myself away prematurely.
"Me my lord?" I said quietly.
He raised a brow, and took in an irritated breath.
"Yes you," he said finally, "place your bag on the floor and gather your things, you're coming with me."
I looked at him surprised.
Suddenly I wasn't so sure what his intentions were.
"But my lord-" I tried.
"Just do it," he interrupted, "report to the guard in the hall once you are done, that's all."
Afterwards, he turned on his heel and left in the same manner in which he came. I looked after him still in shock, everyone else was now looking at me as well. My superior to whom I reported to abruptly had a sneer of satisfaction on his unattractive face. He seemed pleased.
"Now you're going to pay for your insubordination," he said with a smirk.
I merely returned his look, but didn't give away my feelings.
That's what you think, I pondered, placing the obscenely heavy dragon ore bag on the ground of the vault.
Without saying another word to anyone, I hurried toward the exit where the guard whom Elbourne told me to report to was waiting. The man had a stoic expression on his face as most guards did. When he saw I was the woman the dragon prince had pointed out he then spoke to me.
"This way," he uttered lowly, and I followed him up the stairs away from the hot spot.
I looked over my shoulder at everyone still staring up at me, and felt a small sense of victory. The worries I previously had suddenly left me. There was no way Elbourne didn't know who I was. It was evident in the way he was addressing only me that he was looking for me.
You have no idea the true relationship I have with the prince, I thought of all of them, you insignificant misers deserve such work. I will be living in luxury from now on.
I turned from looking at them and smiled, I was finally on my way to better things.
Afterwards, I followed the guard in silence to a midway point where he told me to take a secondary staircase by myself.
"You'll proceed alone from here," he said, "the prince can't be seen having peasant girls coming into his chambers from the front entrance. This corridor leads to a back entrance to his room. Be sure to knock twice for him to let you enter."
I said nothing and only nodded.
I held my grin of triumph.
So I was right, I thought.
I wasted no time hurrying up the corridor as the guard directed, and when I got to the wall at the end, I knocked twice. There was a brief pause for a few seconds, but then soon the door opened, and unsurprisingly the handsome face of Prince Elbourne greeted me on the other side. He looked indifferent for some reason, but then gestured for me to enter his chamber.
"Please come in," he directed.
I stared at him for a moment and nodded. I then walked past him and immediately removed the head covering that was sweating my normally shiny red hair. I probably smelled like ash and soot from the fire pits. I hoped my appearance wasn't too deplorable for him. I turned around to watch him close the secret entrance, then afterwards he turned my way and gave me a long once over. For the first time he laid eyes on me he grinned and shook his head.
He raised a brow.
"You're a mess," he said softly.
His tone was agreeable, and it put my heart at ease.
I grinned back.
"Yes, I know," I replied.
He then walked past me to his closet and handed me a fresh clean white robe.
"Go bathe and put this on," he ordered, "we'll talk afterwards. You look like you can use the open air bath."
I looked at the robe gratefully and wasted no time taking it, getting undressed, and heading toward his outside bath. The volcanic rocks were bubbling and gurgling pleasantly in the mid-morning sun. When I didn't have a stitch on, I dove right in head first and let the bubbles relax my tired naked body. It was like a reawakening; a baptism of purity if that made sense. When I surfaced, Elbourne was watching me from the ledge with that same grin on his face. He stood with his hands on his hips.
"Feel better?" he asked.
I nodded instantly.
"Ten thousand times better," I called to him.
He laughed and smiled at me.
"Take as long as you want," he said, "I want you to feel comfortable here."
His words were like music to my ears.
"Thank you," I replied, "I will."
Afterwards, I watched after him as he went back inside and started looking over some papers at his table in the center of his room. I couldn't tell what they were from my distance, but I swam back over to the pool's entrance and decided to get out. I felt reborn. I dried my hair with the silk towel he left for me, and robed myself with the clean linen when I walked up and saw his face concentrated on something he was reading. I stopped and admired him from one of the pillars in his room for a moment. He was so handsome, it was really hard to ignore that fact. When he caught me staring at him he smiled again.
"What has your attention so intently?" he asked, looking back down at his letter.
I paused for a moment and shrugged, not sure I could be any happier with his disposition.
"I was just about to ask you the same thing," I said, resting my head against the pillar framing the entrance to the outside pool, "I haven't seen you in so long."
He didn't reply to that.
"I've... I've missed you," I confessed anyway.
His smile widened and he still didn't look at me.
"Have you?" he asked.
I nodded and decided to join him at the table.
I walked up and still didn't catch what he was reading.
"Of course I have," I replied, "I haven't seen you in weeks."
He nodded absently, but then put the letter he was so fixed on into his front pocket.
Something told me it wasn't for my eyes.
What's that all about? I wondered.
"Indeed," he said, then looked me over with his hypnotic hazel gaze, afterwards he asked, "what in the world were you doing in the dragon pits?"
I raised both my brows and looked to the floor.
His question actually made me chuckle.
I was sure I looked silly to him.
"I was sent there by your father," I confessed without much coercion, "he doesn't seem to like me too much these days."
Elbourne gave me an obvious look and laughed himself, then inquired of something rather strange.
"Did you deny him your bed and he decided to punish you?" he asked.
His question immediately made me uncomfortable. It was no secret I slept with Xavier in the past, but I hadn't done so in a good while. Besides, it wasn't something I wanted to discuss with his son. The awkwardness that followed was beyond palpable.
"He... he didn't ask me for anything like that," I replied, "I needed a place to hide and this was what he decided on."
Elbourne's handsome face never changed.
"I see," was all he said in reply.
When he turned away to look at his other correspondence, I wanted to reassure him in some way that his father was nothing in comparison to him. I wanted him to know I was still completely in love with him.
"You're still the best man Elbourne," I stated, "nothing will ever change that."
He merely grinned.
"I'm aware of that, but why go to my father in the first place?" he asked. "You would have been better suited coming straight to me, at least you know I wouldn't have hidden you in such a horrible place."
He did have a point, but I still stiffened slightly at some of his wording.
Something in the way he worded that didn't sit right with me.
"I never stated I was in hiding," I said cautiously.
Elbourne then turned to look at me.
"Are you serious? You just did, are you losing your sense of orientation my dear?" he replied. "It's obvious, you would never choose to go to the dragon mines if you weren't in some kind of trouble." He raised a brow and gave me a once over. "Did you think you were dealing with an amateur Morgana?"
When he put it that way I did see his point.
I took in a deep sigh.
"I just needed to lay low for awhile," I said finally, "I'm trying to get to Balaam."
He then started scrounging through some other papers he had on the table.
"Are you in some kind of trouble?" he asked nonchalantly.
I paused before I answered.
That's putting it lightly, I thought, I have a determined killer after me.
"You could say that," I replied, trying to be vague.
However, I realized that wasn't going to work on Elbourne.
He stopped what he was doing and looked at me again.
"Look, if you want my help," I said, "I need full disclosure, otherwise you're on your own."
I wasn't exactly surprised with his stance, but I wish he wasn't being so demanding to know all my business. There were some things I didn't and couldn't divulge to him.
Don't tell him the whole truth, I thought, but you have to let him know something.
It was then I decided to be a little bit of an open book.
"My brother is dead," I started finally, "and now his killers are coming for me."
Elbourne bucked his head back in surprise.
He looked thrown for a loop at the news.
"Vincent's dead?" he repeated.
I nodded, then looked away.
I didn't want to get emotional in front of him.
Vincent wouldn't have wanted that.
"He was beheaded right before my eyes," I said, trying to keep the anger out of my voice, "now I have to get to Balaam to finish what he sought to do."
Elbourne was quiet while I spoke, and when I finished, he came up suddenly and took me in a tight hug. I was surprised at this, but didn't discourage it. I was reluctant to hold him back, but was overcome by my natural feeling for him. I finally hugged him back and buried my head in his shoulder. I tried to contain them, but that was when the tears came. I held him tighter, and felt myself feel a twinge of comfort in his strong arms. It was the first time in a long time I felt vulnerable with a man.
"I'm sorry you feel so much pain," he whispered against my hair, "I know he was all you had left."
My bottom lip trembled, and I closed my eyes.
"He was my world," I confessed, "my brother meant everything to me."
Elbourne then pulled back to look at me.
He stroked my hair, and wiped the tears from my eyes.
"I wish I knew what to say to you," he whispered.
My eyes refilled.
I reached up and caressed his cheek.
"You don't have to," I said sincerely, "I appreciate what you've done already."
Elbourne nodded, but still looked concerned.
"Whatever it is you need please feel free to ask me," he said.
He had no idea how happy his words just made me.
I nodded and tried to smile.
"I will," I whispered back, "and thank you."
Afterwards, we were silent, but that didn't prevent me from coming close to him and resting my head on his chest.
"Thank you for coming to get me out of that place," I whispered, "I feel so much better being here with you."
He reached up and stroked my hair again.
"When I kept hearing reports about an insubordinate dragon maid, I had to follow up to see what was going on," he said, "that rarely happens."
It was the first time I felt a genuine laugh escape my lips.
"What were you told?" I asked. "That a bullheaded woman refused to clean the lava pits?"
He chuckled himself.
"That was it exactly," he said.
I laughed more, then pulled away to look up at him again.
"You good sir would be right," I replied, "do you know how many people have died due to those horrible conditions?"
He shrugged.
"That's the life of a dragon maid," he replied.
I was surprised at his lack of propriety.
"You could at least pretend that you care," I said.
He smirked.
"And squander my reputation?" he joked. "I think not."
I smiled wider, but then felt it fade when I realized how much I missed this... how much I missed him. I reached up and caressed his cheek again, but this time I acted on impulse and reached up and kissed him on the lips. He seemed hesitant at first to kiss me back, but eventually he did, however, it was short lived and brief. I could tell from the way he pulled away that something else was clouding his thoughts. Afterwards, he let me go and went back to looking over his papers at the table. I studied him for a second before I decided to be honest with him. I was tired of his wayward feelings.
"Elbourne what's wrong?" I asked.
He shook his head and avoided looking at me.
"Nothing," he said.
I felt my eyes narrow just then.
I knew exactly what was bothering him.
I was getting irritated with her constant interference.
"You're thinking about her again, aren't you?" I demanded suddenly.
He took in a deep sigh and didn't reply.
I was so frustrated with his love for the queen of Hyrule.
I really hate that bitch, I thought.
I felt the contempt build within me.
"When are you going to learn Elbourne?" I demanded. "She doesn't love you!"
He closed his eyes and his handsome features dimmed a little.
"Morgana..." he trailed.
I wasn't going to be shut down.
This time, I was going to have my say.
"When are you going to learn that I love you?" I demanded suddenly. "I love you more than you could possibly imagine! Why can't you see that? Why are you so infatuated with a woman who sees no value you in you? You're nothing to her!"
It was then he turned to look at me, and a dark look captured his eyes.
"Maybe perhaps because you have a sexual relationship with my father Morgana!" he said rather bluntly. "Do you know how badly you've hurt my mother? Do you know how much your actions with my father have caused her pain? You don't need to worry about me and Zelda! Perhaps you should reevaluate how much you are truly a traitor to the throne of Dragon Roost!"
I looked at him stunned and took a step back. I wasn't expecting him to say any of this. He turned from looking at me and closed his eyes. I stared at him without really looking at him just then. There was a silence that overcame us. His words stung me to the core, and they were presented with so much venom. Perhaps I was wrong in thinking he had forgiven me. Perhaps I was more hopeful than I should have been. Maybe I was living in a dream world all this time.
He really sounded like he hated me, I thought.
I looked to the ground and sighed.
"Maybe this wasn't such a good idea," I whispered, "maybe-"
However, Elbourne suddenly had a change of heart.
It was truly strange.
"No, no I'm sorry," he interrupted me abruptly, and came up to me and took me in another tight hug. "I didn't mean to snap at you."
I shook my head and tried to pull away.
"But Elbourne-" I tried.
He interrupted me by kissing me suddenly. It was a long, wet, passionate kiss. I was surprised at the sudden affection, but didn't dispel it. I immediately kissed him back, and when I pulled away he had a needy look in his eyes.
"I just need to see you the way I'm used to seeing you," he whispered, "do you understand what I mean?"
I felt my eyes widen and didn't get his gist right away.
"What are you talking about?" I asked.
He held me tighter.
"Let's go to the Red Lantern District tonight," he whispered against my hair, "let's make love there one last time for old times sake."
I was surprised at hearing this. With what he just said about the dragon queen, he sounded like he despised me. However, he may have just been playing up the theatrics because I insulted him regarding the queen of Hyrule. I knew how sensitive he was regarding her.
"The Red Lantern District?" I repeated.
He nodded.
"Yes," he went on, "I'm used to seeing you as this wild, uninhibited woman. I need for you to be like that when we're together."
I wasn't going to lie, I felt a stirring at his words, and I still wasn't completely convinced. However, when I saw that handsome face of his, with his deep, brooding gaze I immediately turned to jelly. He was the only man that made me feel this way. He was the only man that could turn me off and on like a lantern. But even with that fact in mind, I attempted another front of solidarity.
"Do you think we should?" I asked. "You seem to hate me."
His features softened for a moment, but then he uttered something very strange.
"I don't hate you Morgana," he whispered and caressed my cheek, "I have a much deeper feeling for you than hatred, words couldn't describe what I truly feel for you."
I looked at him offhanded and perplexed.
What kind of answer is that? I wondered.
"I don't understand, what-" I tried.
It was then he interrupted me with another kiss, a rather passionate and sexual one, and when he pulled away I completely forgot about his words. I just stared into his eyes, wanting him so badly. I didn't care for anything else.
"When do you want to meet there?" I whispered.
I was practically begging.
Elbourne stroked his fingers over my chin.
"Meet me there tonight," he said, "I'll arrange everything since you're trying to be inconspicuous."
Again, his words were like music to my ears.
"That sounds perfect," I replied, "I can't wait."
He smiled at me and looked over my face.
"Neither can I," he whispered back, "meet me there two hours after dusk. Report to Lady Mystere's house and she will tell you where to go from there."
I was a little taken aback at that. I didn't like him mentioning Lady Mystere. That woman has been nothing but a thorn in my side ever since she came to the Red Lantern District. However, if it meant spending an evening, perhaps my last evening, with Elbourne then so be it. I would do whatever he wanted. I just needed him so badly.
I'll make it a night to remember, I thought.
"That sounds perfect," I whispered, "thank you."
He smiled at me just then.
"No Morgana," he whispered, "thank you."
Afterwards, he kissed me again. A long and soft kiss, and when he pulled away, he gestured for me to go to the linen closet.
"You better find a suitable dress and get going," he directed finally, "don't worry about father, I'll arrange for you to get to Balaam before the week is out."
I looked at him truly stunned.
He really was my savior.
"Are you serious?" I whispered.
He nodded.
"Of course," he replied.
I felt my heart skip another beat.
"Oh thank you so much," I said, "you have no idea what this means to me."
He grinned.
"It means just as much to me too," he said.
He then shooed for me to get dressed, and when I went to the closet, I chose a dark blue gown. He probably made sure to have an extra set of women's clothes available for when his unsuspecting guests stayed over. It was actually a brilliant idea, and it didn't matter who he had slept with in the past, he was going to be mine tonight... all mine.
The thought of that made me grin.
Take that you queenly bitch, I thought.
Zelda was going to have nothing on me tonight. I was going to make this the best night he ever had in bed with a woman. He might even totally forget her. Once I was done dressing, I was given a long brown cloak to go over it.
"Tie your hair back," Elbourne instructed, "I don't want anyone to recognize you."
I saw his point.
"That's a good idea," I said in agreement.
I braided my hair down my back and then hid it underneath the cloak. Without my hair being seen, I was more inconspicuous. Elbourne then walked me to the front door of his chamber, and when he opened it, he kissed me again subtly on the lips.
"I'll see you later," he promised.
I smiled.
I couldn't be happier.
"Yes my darling," I whispered.
Elbourne smiled back, and caressed my cheek. However, when he looked up across the hall, his smile suddenly faded. He caught someone watching us and it appeared to be someone he didn't want to see. I turned to see who captured his eye. It was a rather pretty maiden with raven black hair and green eyes, admittedly the loveliest green eyes I had ever seen. She was staring at the both of us in what looked like shock and despair.
I was indignant at her invasion of privacy.
What is she gawking at? I wondered. I wish she would go away.
I turned back to look at Elbourne who suddenly looked very serious.
Apparently, this woman wasn't just another maiden. The expression on his face made that very obvious.
"You better go," he whispered to me without an explanation.
I was hesitant to leave there and then, but all I did was nod and afterwards hurry down the hall to the exit. The girl watched me for a moment before looking back at the dragon prince. A moment later, tears filled her eyes and she fled in the opposite direction towards the innards of the palace. Elbourne stared after her until she was no longer in sight, before effectively slamming his door shut when he went back inside his room. It seemed he slammed that door with all his might. I looked over my shoulder once more at the unconventional ruckus. The hall was now empty, and the girl was gone.
I didn't understand any of it.
What in the world was that all about? I wondered.
I guess I would never know.
~SSS~
Hyrule Castle, Six Hours Later: Zelda's POV
Greetings My Beloved,
It pleases me greatly that I have good news for you in connection
to your last letter. I have contacted your person of interest, and in fact
gained her trust. She is now lying in wait for me at a place I know her
well, the Red Lantern District. I know this isn't a place for a lady such
as yourself, but I would be doing you a disservice if I withheld the truth
from you. I suggest you champion this information to your subordinates,
and keep your hands clean of what needs to take place to be rid of her. I
have already stated my loyalty to you and the throne, that hasn't changed.
If you plan to pass on this information to Linux, tell him to rendezvous
with an individual named Lady Mystere. I hate revealing such sordid people
to you, but this woman is trustworthy despite her occupation. If farm boy
plans anything, tell him to keep her in the know... she's sort of the 'lady'
of the district. I've already informed her that Morgana is on her way back
there, she is simply waiting for orders from your support team to execute
whatever you desire. I hope this news brings a smile to your lovely face...
I miss your smiles Zelda. Please keep me posted for anything else you
may need. I hope this letter gets to you in time, and remember, you are
still the first lady in my life, and I love you with all my heart.
~Elbourne of Dragon Roost~
At the letter's end, I couldn't have been more pleased. This was exactly what I wanted to hear. I took in a deep, relieved breath and got up from the table. Instead of wasting time waiting for a courtier to do my bidding for me, I headed out the door of my chambers myself. The guard standing watch was quite surprised with my sudden appearance and inquired of it.
"All is well my lady?" he asked.
I grinned at him.
"Quite well," I replied with a nod, "now please do me a favor and escort me to the Situation Room. I have some important news to deliver."