Inspiration: Power and Negotiations

Shout Out: Katia0203 thanks for reading and your kind words, and Mitsuki-love13 thank you for reading as well.

Author Note: Thank you to those willing to give this story a chance.

Word Count: 9,545

Chapter 6

Two days later, Link

I walked along the rooftops of the castle going over some logistics regarding the prince's visit with my steward. Leonhart was going to need lodging for himself and his entourage. If he planned to come to Hyrule as he did years before, we were going to need to accommodate at least forty men. That was quite the task considering all the festivities the were going to ensue around his visit. Zelda was in charge of the festivities, but it was my job to make sure he was safe. It was the reason I was appropriating this meeting on the roof. The rooftops gave me a better view of the overall layout of the castle from above. It wasn't lost to me that there would be several high valued targets all in one spot for several days. That would be an assassin's dream. When I acted as First Knight, my first job was the safety of the royal family. I had not lost any of that training, even though technically I was the 'royal' family now, me and Zelda of course.

"We are going to need to reinforce the east, west, and south perimeter walls," I was saying. "Another fortification might need to be placed."

Rave, my steward, was slightly concerned with my suggestion.

"Your majesty... building another perimeter wall will take... weeks," he stated. "That is going to take a great deal of stones, mortar, and man power."

I nodded.

"That is why I commissioned the engineers to get started tomorrow."

He looked at me like I was mad.

"We have not even come up with a financing budget yet. How are we to account for all that?"

I shook my head and walked over to the other side of the roof, staring at the west wall.

"Not true, that's all been done. It's already been accounted for."

Rave appeared perplexed.

"How my lord, and when?"

I turned to look at him.

"Last week when I told you about that personal project I wanted to finance."

He stared at me surprised.

"This was that project?"

I nodded.

"Yes."

Rave sighed.

"You could have let me know what your true intentions were. I would have given you more accurate numbers."

I thought nothing of it.

"You gave me accurate numbers. The scale you accounted for that you thought was another castle was for this wall."

He then showed his cynicism.

"My lord, had I known it was for something so frivolous, I would have counseled against it."

I gave him a knowing look.

"You think security is frivolous versus building another castle?"

Rave frowned.

"Of course not."

I didn't understand his previous statement.

"Then where is your argument?"

My servant raised his hands in surrender.

"I guess I don't have one."

I turned back around.

"I guess not. Let's move on then, we have to discuss how were going to house the prince's entourage."

Rave said nothing, and merely opened his deposition book and readied his quill pen. The studious redhead was prepared to take dictation. Rave may have been a worrier, but he was loyal. He was so loyal, it was hard for me to shake him when I wanted to be alone. I had known him for nine years now, back when I was a knight for the royal family. He was a worrier back then too. However, his keen mind could not be denied. He was the most brilliant man I knew, and he was the most thorough when it came to organization. It was why I chose him as my steward. Nothing got past him. That was my gift and my curse. It was also why I decided to give him the most tedious of tasks to keep him busy. Well, tasks I thought were tedious. They seemed to be a misnomer to him.

I remember sending him to map out all the lands of her majesty for a proper allocation of her family's properties. He did that in a week. I remember having him count and recount the treasury twice already, but that was easy for him to delegate. He finished the task in four days, and was not off by one rupee. I remember sending him to buy me the best horse from Gerudo Valley for my private collection. He didn't come back with one, he came back with six stallions. There was not a task he could not do. It was then I realized if I wanted to keep him off my back for a little while I was going to have to send him on a trip. I was going to delegate him as my special envoy to the kingdom of Balaam. He would act as my personal emissary to the prince. I could surmise that him going was an act of good will before the prince's subsequent visit. It was all I could do to keep him busy so he would not get in my way when I needed to leave. I had a few impromptu plans of my own.

That seemed like the best course of action. Rave probably knew most of my tactics by now, but he hadn't mastered all of them yet. Nine years of working together made for a very devoted steward. However, I was also aware of how devoted he was to Zelda. I think in many ways, he wasn't just a steward for me, but also a spy for her. It wasn't a secret that Zelda had me watched. She had done it in the past. I was certain she was doing so now. I wasn't saying that as hyperbole, it was the truth. We had a falling out in the past because of it, and back then I was merely her beau. I was certain she was having me watched now, and I think Rave was her primary source of information. It was one of the reasons I kept some of my confidential talk to a minimum as of late with him. I couldn't say I blamed Zelda. I certainly was giving her reason to have her suspicions, but that was not my concern as of right now. I went back to discussing protocols for the prince's visit.

"We have to make sure the prince's entourage is accommodated for, so we'll need to utilize the apartments adjacent to the royal quarters," I was saying. "We will also have to have all of the apartments underneath it cleaned as well. That makes for thirty rooms. Some servants will have to share."

Rave was writing feverishly with his quill pen.

"The rooms are already cleared out and getting ready sire."

I turned to him surprised.

"Oh... really?"

Rave looked over at me.

"Her majesty the queen had informed me to get the apartments ready last week."

Zelda was always on top of things.

"Why am I not surprised?" I asked rhetorically.

Rave chuckled.

"She is an extraordinary woman," he complimented.

I nodded.

"She is." It was then I changed the subject. "Well, since that is taken care of, I need you to do me another important favor."

Rave had no qualms.

"You have only to ask sire."

I appreciated his eagerness.

"I need you to make an impromptu trip to Balaam," I disclosed. "I want you to go as my representative."

Rave then stared at me taken aback.

"You want me to go to Balaam?"

I nodded again.

"I want you to get a general feel of his highness's mood towards me and her majesty."

Rave gave me a knowing look.

"You want to determine if he still hates you?"

I couldn't help but grin.

"I wouldn't put it quite that way."

Rave was the type that didn't hold his tongue.

"I would," he said and shook his head, but digressed. "When would you like me to leave?"

He already knew the flow of this conversation.

"Tomorrow."

Rave closed the book he was writing in and turned on his heel.

"I knew it, I knew it," he muttered. " I hate sailing," he said to himself, but then directed to me. "I will do everything his majesty asks."

I grinned as Rave stalked away, apparently about to get ready for his trip to Balaam.

"One of these days he's going to call me out," I whispered to myself. "I'm just glad that day isn't today."

I watched after Rave, as he made his way back into the castle. However, now that I was by myself, I glanced around for a moment at the spires piercing the heavens. Guards were patrolling dutifully the way they were supposed to. Everywhere I looked there was security.

"This really is a fishbowl," I whispered to myself.

This was not a problem, just an inconvenience. I decided then to head back inside and go to my private quarters. The morning had been fruitful, but I still had another task I needed to get done. I needed to talk to Saria. I promised her I would contact her in two days, and this was that allotment of time. I strolled back into the castle and down the stairwell into the great hall. As I entered, I headed back towards Zelda's and my bed chamber, but instead of going to our room I went to one of the spires I used as my private sanctuary. It was the only place in the castle where I could be one hundred percent alone. There were no guards there. There were no trap doors. There was no place to hide. There were no ears to gossip. Just a place where I could be alone to reflect. When I got to my private room, I dismissed the guard stationed nearby and locked the door behind me. I stored my private treasures here. I opened an aperture in the ground and pulled out a chest. I opened the chest where my old Kokiri sword, shield, and ocarina were hidden. I grinned at the contents and took out the fairy ocarina. I had no idea how much significance this little instrument would have for me. I closed the chest and put the other items away. Afterwards, I sat down, closed my eyes, and started playing Saria's Song. It was time to get an answer. I wanted to know what decision she made. I hoped it was the one we both wanted.

~SSS~

Meanwhile in Ordon Village, Saria

I was in the middle of washing dishes when I heard my melody playing on the wind. I stiffened a little from nervousness because I knew that was Link. I let the music play for a little while longer before I finally answered. When the hero said two days, he certainly meant it.

"Hello?" I answered quietly.

There was a brief pause.

"Hello Saria."

The hero's voice was magnetic, even with the static transmission.

"How are you?"

"I'm well, thank you for asking. How are you?"

I shrugged for no reason in particular.

"I'm alright," I said honestly, "just a little nervous."

There was another brief pause.

"What are you nervous about?"

I rolled my eyes.

"Come on Link, stop that."

I heard him sigh.

"Fair enough, I guess that was a silly question," he replied. "Do you have an answer for me?"

Right to the chase I see.

"I do."

There was another pause.

"Well?"

There was a slight impatience to his tone.

"Um, I've decided I... I will see you again."

He sounded relieved.

"Really? I'm so glad."

His tone said everything.

"I'm glad you're happy."

Link heard the inflection in my voice.

"Aren't you happy too?"

I wanted to be, but I was not sure.

"I... I don't know," I said honestly. "I'm scared."

There was another run of silence.

"What are you afraid of?"

This was becoming circular, so I decided to be direct.

"I can't have happen what happened before. I can't kiss you, or hold you, or anything. Do you understand?"

The hero was quiet again.

"Is that what you're afraid of?" he deflected.

I crossed my arms over my chest.

"Link... please."

The hero took in a deep breath.

"I promise not to intentionally initiate anything. I just want your friendship... that's all. However, I am not going to pretend that I don't nee-d you. I am not going to pretend everything is simple between us. You know it isn't. I told you before, I care about you."

I couldn't believe he uttered that out loud.

"Do you hear yourself?"

"Do you want me to lie?"

I was slightly shaken by his honesty.

"Link if you don't promise me nothing will happen, I will not meet you. We are married. We have people who depend on us. We can't let our guards down again."

The hero was quiet again.

"Alright... alright, I promise."

He wasn't too reassuring, but at least it was something.

"Thank you."

"I'll call for you next month," he reassured, the transmission finally cleared up. "I can't wait to see you again."

His tone made me nervous.

"I... I look forward to seeing you too."

"Goodbye Saria..."

My throat tightened.

"Goodbye... Link."

With that, the connection disconnected and I was left with nothing but my thoughts.

Saria, what are you doing? What are you doing?

~SSS~

Five days later, Link

Today, I was planning an impromptu visit to Zora's Domain. Ever since Saria alerted me about those 'strange apparatuses on the mountain tops', I wanted to speak with the king to explore what was truly going on for myself. I also wanted to see if this 'becoming Hylian' initiative was real. It sounded more like noble nonsense. The interesting thing about the Zoras were they were an isolated fish people. So, that did make them more prone to deception. Truthfully, I hadn't spoken to the Zora king since Zelda and I got engaged a couple years ago. It wasn't like me to keep away from my friends for so long, but my life had become more Hyrule-centric lately. I needed to rectify that.

In any such case, I hadn't spoken about the situation with Zelda yet, but I planned to this morning to get her thoughts on the matter. Admittedly, this past week had been more peaceable with my wife, and I could tell she was pleased we were able to get along as well. I never wanted her to think I didn't appreciate her for who she was. I did. Though, I haven't necessarily been forthright in showing her that sentiment. So, I made it my initiative to be more gracious to Zelda's feelings. Ironically, I believe the reason I was able to have more patience with my wife was because I just recently saw Saria. Saria made me calm and that transitioned into my home life. Zelda definitely would not approve of my methods of coping, but she was too happy to question them at this time. Still, I needed to remember I could not be as reckless as I was in the Sacred Forest Meadow. If I wanted to keep my friend and my wife happy, I needed to remember my boundaries. I just hoped my heart would remember that too.

No excuses Link...

Presently, I was in my routine of going over the correspondence for the day, as well as organizing and reworking the security measures for Prince Leonhart's visit. It was fast approaching. Rave sent me a letter via hawk carrier from Balaam, stating that his four day journey had been safe, and that the prince had been most accommodating so far. I was certain he was after one day. I would wait and see what his full report would bring. Next, the wall was being built on schedule, three tiers of the seven were already erected. That included the goddess ore spokes used to fortify the mortar. I was impressed by the Royal Academy of Engineers. They knew how to get things done efficiently. Another letter informed me, the apartments to house the prince were cleaned, refurnished in the latest Hylian style, and were fit for a king. Zelda made sure of that. I couldn't believe how quickly Leonhart's visit was coming. Frankly, I found a lot of these pleasantries simply for show, but aristocratic diplomacy was often built on show. However, I needed to remember what Zelda told me about understanding ruling from variant perspectives. There was a time to interact with the nobles, and there was a time to interact with the peasants. And, though I felt the most comfortable with the latter, I still needed to show the former that I was their king too.

Put on the mask, keep it, let it lead, and let politics reign...

Interestingly enough, there were a few nobles I did do some research on at my leisure. I took note of Zelda's beckoning, and… she was right. She previously informed me that there were some good men and women of the noble class looking out for the benefit of the people of Hyrule. For instance, there was the Miyamoto Clan. The Miyamoto Clan was a very wealthy, very powerful family in Hyrule. They were instrumental in spearheading the architecture of the Sacred Realm. I had no idea that was even possible. I found out it was a blessing bestowed on the family from Hylia herself. That was quite the honor. So, they had to have had some benefice if the goddess of Hyrule saw fit to bless them. The head of the family, Lord Miyamoto, was said to be a very agreeable man. He was known for his smile, charm, and creative wit. However, he did have some peculiar dealings with a certain Happy Mask Salesman. It was even rumored the Happy Mask Salesman was a member of that clan, but his peculiarities made him an outcast. I wasn't sure what to make of that rumor, but anyone who dealt with the Happy Mask Salesman was a little suspect in my book. Not that I wouldn't give the Miyamoto Clan the benefit of the doubt. They at least attempted to distance themselves from him. There was just something very strange about a man who obsessed over masks.

My next case study was a lord by the name of Reginald Fils-amie. This noble was a tall, half-Gerudo, imposing looking gentleman, who was an expert in economics and trade. He proposed a theory on disruptive goods years ago. He stated that stagnation in a market was the death of any economy. Wise words from a very wise man. He also opened several small village shelters for lost widows and orphaned children. Many of those women and children stayed at those places of refuge for many years before they were able to get on their feet and move on with their lives. I appreciated seeing small pockets of those sanctuaries and villages on my journeys throughout Hyrule. He was definitely a man for the people, even though he had a strange saying about his 'body being ready'… ready for what? War? Peace? I was not sure.

Another notable noble was Lord Iwata-san. I emphasized was because he recently passed away. I didn't know him personally, but I read up on his incredible legacy, and the man was a truly gifted genius. His father was an extremely wealthy nobleman who focused his career in politics. However, Iwata-san was a different breed. He had no interests in politics, but was fascinated at an early age with alchemy. He graduated from the Scholar's Academy at age twenty-one as an exceptional alchemical engineer and philosopher. He was responsible for creating a grain called 'Wii-T'. It was like regular wheat, but it could withstand the cold and the rain. It was truly a marvelous invention, especially for families who didn't have access to grain all year long. He was known for being a jovial sort of person and the ones who knew him well truly missed him. Rest in peace good nobleman.

One last noble I needed to make mention of was one who Zelda recommended to me herself, and that was Lord Aonuma-san. This noble was a philosopher and philanthropist, but more importantly he was responsible in spreading the true history of Hyrule. He was the founder of the Hyrule Historia Almanac, a news pamphlet that was distributed every month on a subscription basis for those interested in learning something new and important related to Hyrule's history. These men were examples that debunked my noble theory of abject snobbery. I was glad to be debunked because living in an absolute mindset was dangerous. I stand corrected, and frankly I was glad and happy to be.

Currently, I was finishing up some work I planned for my steward, but would regulate to have done later when he returned from Balaam. Afterwards, I went and called for Zelda. She was currently in the gardens selecting the flowers she wanted for the prince's visit. Her duties as supreme sovereign seemed to lessen when we got married and she became queen, with me taking on the bulkier militaristic roles, while she focused on diplomacy. I was okay with that as was she. Her abilities as a diplomat were extraordinary and seemed to expand with her wisdom of the sage-ship. Zelda had done an astonishing service as the princess and her people loved her for all that she had done. Now, her focus was more on creating and establishing peaceable relations with neighboring kingdoms, with the point of focus being Prince Leonhart at the moment.

Fifteen minutes later, Zelda showed up looking lovely in her dark purple gown, which made her strawberry blonde hair standout. There was finally a slight protrusion beginning to take form at her belly, but other than that there was no evidence of her being pregnant. Zelda was going to be well into her fourth month heading towards her fifth by the time the prince arrived. I wasn't sure waiting so long to make the announcement was a good idea. However, Zelda insisted, stating the longer we waited, the sooner the kingdom would be able to welcome our child. I saw her logic, and with Zelda everything was about putting the kingdom first… everything. Zelda walked up to me and curtsied, and I recently learned to accept that that was the way she wanted to greet me. There could have been worse ways, but if she wanted to show me such deep respect, I wasn't going to take that away from her. In fact, it only deepened my own personal respect I had for my queen.

"Yes my king?" she greeted in her perfect voice.

I was looking out the window when she entered, but then turned at the sound of her voice. I then gestured for her to sit down and she did so dutifully. Afterwards, I came and sat down across from her.

"I need to take a trip," I disclosed abruptly.

She looked at me slightly taken aback by the news.

"A trip?"

I nodded.

"I'm going to Zora's Domain today," I divulged.

She stared at me stunned.

"Today?"

I nodded.

She wasn't at all convinced.

"Why are you doing this today? A trip to Zora's Domain is not a simple 'sip and see'."

I understood her concerns, but decided to let her in on what my intentions were.

"I got some intel related to some illegal activity going on up there," I revealed.

She nearly gasped.

"What illegal activity?"

I leaned in on the table and lowered my voice.

"Something related to the currency, as well as some devices that were unlawfully bartered there."

Zelda was lost for words.

"What?" she whispered.

I just nodded.

"It caught me off guard too, though, I'm not too surprised."

She covered her mouth.

"My word!" she whispered. "What do you think is going on?"

I tapped my finger on the table top.

"The nobles are interloping directly against a royal command. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that's an imprisoning offense, right?"

She hesitated at my words.

"Yes, it is," she replied anyway.

I sat back in my chair.

"That's all I needed to know."

There was a brief silence between us, with Zelda's eyes searching my face.

"What are you going to speak about with King Zora?" she redirected.

I took in a deep sigh.

"I'm going to see if he had any knowledge of this situation, or if the nobles involved were scheming him in ignorance. You and I both know Zoras Domain is an isolated country. I don't believe King Zora would willfully go against the throne of Hyrule, so that's why I need to go. I need more information."

Zelda stared at me carefully.

"I see… and… if you find something unfavorable?"

I gave her an obvious look.

"Then we'll deal with it accordingly. You just clarified for me that it was a punishable offense."

Zelda looked away just then, as an expression of concern came across her face. I caught that and questioned it immediately.

"What's the matter?"

She shook her head and her concern deepened.

"This is coming at such an inopportune time," she said more to herself than to me, "especially if Lady Bathory has any involvement."

I looked at her perplexed for a moment.

"I don't follow you."

She shook her head.

"I suppose you wouldn't."

This was only getting more confusing.

"Why do you say that?" I asked.

She then gave me an obvious look.

"You're not going to like this, but I'm going to tell you anyway," she began, which wasn't good. "If Lady Bathory is found to be implicated in some scandal while at the same time being affianced to Prince Leonhart, that could sour his relationship with Hyrule."

I saw her point, but didn't quite see where her angle of reasoning was coming from.

"Well, that's her problem. If she's implicated, she's implicated."

Zelda took in a deep sigh.

"It isn't quite that simple." She then further explained. "Affianced couples are considered married in the eyes of many, especially the aristocracy of Hyrule. If charges are brought up against Lady Bathory regarding this matter, it would essentially be considered an act of war against Baalam."

I looked at her in complete disbelief just then.

"What?" I demanded.

She looked at me at a loss.

"I don't like it any more than you do Link, but I would have to imagine that that was Filgore and Rue Morgue's aim in having her involved in the first place. She's seemingly untouchable."

I closed my eyes and groaned in open frustration.

"So... she can break the law and nothing happens to her?" I demanded.

Zelda raised her hands in surrender.

"Trust me when I say, I'm on your side regarding this," she reassured. "That has always been a law I saw no logic in."

I banged my hand on the table lightly.

"Those underhanded snakes!"

Zelda then reached over and took hold of my hand.

"I'm sorry darling," she said sympathetically, "but if there is anything found, I think at best all we can do is stop their operations and secretly forbid them in doing so in the future."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. This seemed to be getting worse.

"Secretly?" I repeated.

She squeezed my hand.

"As I said before, I don't like it any more than you do, but unfortunately, those are our options."

I pulled my hand away, not intending to be frustrated with her.

"Those are terrible options Zelda. Surely there must be some kind of law-"

"There are none in that regard," she interrupted softly. "I'm going to save you your spiel now."

I felt my frustration mount in this matter. There was no way this was going to carry on unchecked.

"Then I will write one. There's no way they're going free if they are planning seditious acts against the throne."

Zelda looked at me with open empathy.

"You have no argument from me. I've always thought such protections were an egregious perversion of justice."

I stood up from the table after that.

"I'm heading out soon, and no, I'm not going with the fanfare befitting a king. I'm keeping this low key."

Zelda grinned with how I said that.

"I wouldn't have you going any other way. It's served you well for years, just please be careful."

I nodded.

"I will. I promise."

With that, I ended my conversation with my wife and began preparations for heading out to Zora's Domain. I hoped King Zora was simply ignorant to the nobles' possible treachery. If not, he certainly had some explaining to do.

Let's pray for your sake sire, that this is just a misunderstanding... The last thing you want is trouble with the people of the goddess.

~SSS~

Meanwhile in Ordon Village, Saria

Ever since the incident at the spring nearly a couple weeks ago, I noticed Ralph watching me more cautiously. He wouldn't outright say anything, but he occasionally would ask me about headaches or if I was feeling alright. I wasn't sure why he was so curious, but I didn't exactly help my case with the way I acted either. I hoped things would get back to normal soon, but I realized it would take more effort on my part than on his. Every time I looked at him, I felt guilty for what I did with Link in that meadow. That kiss... that damn kiss. Why did I let my guard down? I was the culprit here, so it was up to me to make Ralph feel comfortable again. I ran away from him. He found me crying. He had no idea what was going on with me. He was also insistent that I get checked out by Dr. Seaside. He could have very easily examined me himself, but I was glad he wanted me to keep the physician who knew me best. I told Ralph I would, but he prompted me to do so sooner rather than later. I promised him I would, and in fact, that was where I was heading to today.

My husband worked with Dr. Seaside, but I was hoping he would respect the "patient/doctor" privilege and allow me to speak with Dr. Seaside alone. I had more to speak on than simply the spring incident. I needed to inform him about what was truly going on with me. He was one of the few people in Hyrule who could really understand my plight. If there was anyone who knew of Link's and my history it was my friend Dr. Seaside. He was the man that helped me become a Hylian.

Currently, I finished cleaning my home and put the dry dishes away. After making sure I looked suitable, I left my residence and locked the door. However, I didn't get far when, of course, Gertrude caught sight of me and came walking towards me down the road. She had her normal approachable disposition and I figured this time she was not going to be so easily swayed as last time. I was aware she was still looking for a practice to work in, but I certainly hoped she found one sooner rather than later. Getting away without being seen was beginning to become a little bit of a trial. I wasn't sure how I was going to keep in contact with Link if Gertrude was constantly hankering at my steps.

Even so, I greeted her with a smile when she approached.

"Good morning Saria," she greeted.

I nodded.

"Good morning," I greeted back.

She gave me a quick once over before speaking.

"Where are you off to today?" she asked.

I looked past her towards the impasse in the short distance.

"I'm actually heading into Kakiriko Village. I need to have a check-up."

Gertrude looked at me concerned just then.

"A check-up? Is everything okay?"

I grinned at her concern.

"There's no need to worry. I've just been feeling a little under the weather lately."

She nodded herself, then gave me another quick once over.

"Would you like me to examine you? That way you don't have to go so far."

I appreciated her offer, but that was one boundary she wasn't going to cross.

"That's alright. I've had the same doctor for over five years now and he knows my overall health better than anyone, but thank you for offering."

Gertrude's concern never went away.

"Well… can I at least come with you?"

I paused figuring she would ask that, but realized if I shooed her away this time, she might become more suspicious of me. So, instead I decided to allay her concerns and just include her.

"Sure, but please don't think you're under any obligation."

She fanned off my concern.

"I don't." She then grinned at me. "Besides, I like your company. I really misjudged you before."

I looked at her surprised and unintentionally blushed at the compliment.

"Oh... what a kind thing to say," I let slip.

Gertrude's grin widened.

"Like I said before, I wasn't exactly fair to you, and you're a pretty wonderful person Saria."

I returned her grin.

"Very well, if that's how you see things then you must accompany me." I started down the road. "Come along."

Gertrude walked in step with me and both of us headed out of the village. While we walked, we talked about many of the normalcies of the day, including what I was making for supper, but I was more concerned with her occupation ventures than anything.

"So, how's the job search going?" I asked once we hit the main Hyrule Field.

Gertrude shrugged.

"It's going."

I chuckled, thinking she was still indecisive.

"I thought you were dead set on Dragon Roost."

Gertrude nodded.

"I am. I actually went up last week to visit Dr. Brimstone. He was pretty intimidating, but considering where he works, I'm not too surprised."

I looked on thoughtfully.

"I would think so. You did say he works around fire pits all day. That can't be the best of working conditions."

She was staring straight ahead.

"True, I guess that would make anyone crabby."

I nodded.

"It would," I agreed.

Gertrude shrugged.

"Well, I go back in a few days to see what he has to say about me taking a fellowship with him. Hopefully, he says yes."

I raised both my hands.

"Fingers crossed, here's hoping you get it."

She smiled at me.

"Yeah, here's hoping."

With that, we halted our conversation and continued on Hyrule Field. Admittedly, the greenery and overall beauty had dispelled our little chat. However, as we continued our trek, something odd caught both of our attention. There was a small caravan of about three or four carriages in the distance. It appeared to have been coming from the east and making its way northbound to Lanayru Province. But then strangely, as if spotting us, one of the carriages broke away and started heading in our direction. At first, I thought my eyes were deceiving me, but after watching it for a moment, that carriage was heading straight for us. It looked as though it was going to run us over. I wished my supposition were hyperbole, but it wasn't. Both Gertrude and I were taken aback at what was taking place.

"What in the world is going on with that driver?" Gertrude asked. "Why does it look like that carriage is coming straight towards us?"

Two very valid questions, but unfortunately I had no answers for her. I also had seen enough strange things in my life to not underestimate anyone or anything anymore. I remained silent and kept watching. We were in the carriage's sights as it were. That was when I realized we were in real danger.

"Out of the way!" the driver yelled.

I took hold of Gertrude's hand and pulled her out of harm's way at the very last second. We landed roughly next to some trees, but other than that we were unscathed. As the carriage drove by, the rider, a raven haired woman with light purple eyes, stared at us through her window. But as quickly as she glanced at us, she looked away.

"Careful of the road ladies," she called out. "It's dangerous to go at this alone!"

The carriage then careened past us with no qualms about having almost run us over. I studied it carefully as it went by and I could see it was ornate in its design and crafted with intricate care. It was definitely a noble's carriage, but that didn't account for why the driver was ready to run us over. Where in the world was that woman heading to in such a hurry? Why did it break away like it did? I suddenly had a terrible feeling about what was rumbling in the inner workings of Hyrule, especially after what Link told me.

That carriage is headed north... possibly to Zoras Domain... This only gives more credence to his concerns...

I remained silent, but Gertrude was staring after the carriage terrified and initially dumbstruck.

"Dangerous to go at this alone?" she yelled after it. "Don't you see there are two of us you spineless tektites?!"

I kept quiet and narrowed my eyes while I watched it head down the road.

Who was that? Why was she in such a hurry? What is going on?

I knew this was something I would have to discuss with Link when I got the chance. Next month couldn't come soon enough. I just hoped nothing too sensational was developing in the meantime. Afterwards, we continued our trek to Kakariko Village.

~SSS~

One hour later, Kakiriko Village

We arrived at Kakiriko Village approximately one hour later. Gertrude was still visibly shaken from the previous incident. I understood why she was scared, but I hoped she would calm herself a little before we saw the Dr. Seaside and Ralph. Ralph was already worried about me. The last thing he needed was to be worried about his sister too. However, my wishes were not levied. As soon as we entered the doctor's office, Gertrude had a full blown anxiety attack. She started hyperventilating and crying uncontrollably. I didn't know what to make of this reaction, gratefully there were no other patients present in the main foyer. I sat her down in one of the chairs in the lobby, when the nurse from the accompanying room approached us.

She looked at us concerned.

"Are you ladies alright?" she asked.

I nodded, but Gertrude shook her head no. After I explained why we were there and who we were, the nurse went to the back and got both doctors. Ralph and Dr. Seaside appeared immediately, they both looked worried and I opted for them to tend to Gertrude first, since she was the most in need. Gertrude took a few moments to collect herself before she could explain what happened.

"There-there was a carriage that nearly ran us over," she managed to explain. "If-if Saria hadn't pulled me out of the way…"

Ralph instantly looked at his sister alarmed and knelt down to tend to her.

"It's okay," he soothed gently, "but are you alright?"

His concern seemed to be growing. I looked between the two of them slightly confused. I knew Gertrude was scared, but why was she reacting this way? She didn't get run over by the carriage, it was merely a close call. I wasn't sure why such a reaction was warranted. Something about this was not making sense to me.

I attempted to add some clarity.

"Gerty... it's over now," I tried to reassure, "we weren't hurt."

Gertrude heard me, but looked away as if embarrassed by her behavior. Ralph in turn sighed and stood up.

"There's a reason she's still so terrified," he stated. "Years ago when Gertrude was about seven she was hit by a carriage. It knocked her out cold and left her in a coma for several days with several broken bones. She still gets flashbacks from it, so that's why she still appears shaken."

I looked at Ralph surprised, but then more sympathetically to his sister. I had no idea, and I suddenly wished I hadn't been so presumptuous in my thinking. I came and sat down next to her to try and comfort her afterward.

"Oh Gerty, I'm sorry my dear," I apologized. "I had no idea, are you alright?"

She nodded, but then closed her eyes. She didn't verbally reply.

"I'll have her lie down in one of the cots in the back," Ralph said. "She just needs some rest until the shock wears off."

With that, he helped his sister up and walked her slowly to the adjacent anteroom in the back of the small office. I stood and watched after them, as did my good friend Dr. Seaside. When the door closed behind them, I took in a deep sigh.

"Poor Gertrude," I said quietly.

The doctor nodded.

"Poor girl indeed. She looks like she's about to have a full on breakdown."

"I suppose with what she's been through, it's not too surprising," I said.

Dr. Seaside nodded, then turned his attention to me.

"And what about you?" he redirected. "Are you alright?"

I nodded, but knew that wasn't the complete truth. I had a few things on my mind.

"I'm fine."

He gave me a quick once over.

"Are you sure?" he asked anyway. "Your husband was stating that you may have been exhibiting some strange behavior a little while ago and was concerned. He asked me if I could examine you."

I huffed a little at his disclosure.

"He did, did he?" I said with a hint of sarcasm.

The doctor gave me a look of knowing.

"Don't be that way Saria. Ralph is only showing concern, you know he loves you to no end."

I bit my lower lip at my minor overreaction.

"You're right of course, and I'm sorry."

He took a step towards me.

"Does he have any reason to be concerned?"

The emphatic way he put that made me realize I needed to be more forthcoming than I was. I was only going to make things worse by keeping them to myself. Besides, that was my purpose in coming here in the first place.

"I… I need to speak with you alone," I whispered suddenly.

The caution in my voice must have alerted him.

"What's wrong?"

I shook my head.

"I can't talk about it here," I whispered honestly, "too many ears… can we go someplace else?"

He raised a brow at my request, but when he saw the look on my face, he realized our conversation would be better served by my recommendation.

"Very well, but let me inform Ralph and Gertrude so that there will be a suitable explanation for our departure."

I nodded.

"That's a good idea."

Afterwards, Dr. Seaside excused himself and went to the anteroom. I heard his muffled speech to Ralph and Gertrude, stating he was going to take me to his adjunct office on the other side of the village. Ralph completely complied, thinking it was related solely to his request. Soon, the doctor returned and we exited to the main village. I made sure to cover my head because I wasn't sure the stigma related to who I was had gone. When I initially left this village over a year ago, I was officially donned the village harlot. In fact, some of the citizens blamed Link's temporary fall from grace on me. However, after a little time passed, I moved back with the doctor and one of my old friends, Gramps by name. In time, I noticed there wasn't as much animosity towards me as there once was. Even so, people were fickle, and all they had to do was see my green hair to make a deduction about who I was. Ralph didn't know about any of that and I wanted to keep it that way. That was one of the reasons I very seldom visited him at his place of work. I didn't want to embarrass him.

When we arrived at the doctor's other office, we went inside and lit the lantern on the wall. The room, with all its potions and medical supplies, was completely empty. It was then I felt a little more at ease. I immediately sat down on the bench next to the door and closed my eyes.

Dr. Seaside sat down next to me and placed his hand on my shoulder.

"What's wrong my dear?" he asked. "What's bothering you?"

I took in another deep sigh and looked down at my hands.

"I know this is going to sound silly with how I'm approaching this, but the reason Ralph is so concerned about me is because of what happened a little over two weeks ago."

The doctor nodded.

"I don't think it's silly at all, and he told me such. He said you just ran off, but then he found you crying, or something like that."

I swallowed hard.

"Yes that's true, but there's… there's a reason for that," I said quietly.

He gave me his undivided attention.

"Which is what I'm hoping you'll share with me today."

I hesitated, and then that hesitation turned to a slight fear, but I realized it wasn't going to do me any good by stalling.

"Link... Link contacted me," I divulged abruptly.

He looked at me slightly taken aback.

"What?"

I turned to look at him.

"The king contacted me. He contacted me via my song and that's why I acted like I did with Ralph, I had to get away. I had to speak with him."

The doctor gave me a knowing look.

"I see."

I bit my lower lip again.

"He… he told me he needed a friend. He told me he was having a hard time dealing with the kingship."

The doctor just nodded.

"I'm not surprised. He was a peasant before being thrown into that life. It must be a very difficult adjustment."

I nodded.

"He said it was very stressful." I then looked away. "I could see it in his eyes."

The doctor was quiet for a moment.

"I'm sure it is."

I turned back and looked at him hopefully.

"So you understand?" I asked.

There was an earnest glint in my voice which made him give me an offhanded look.

"Why would what I think matter Saria?" he asked.

I looked down and blushed just then.

"Because you know better than anyone our history."

His expression was thoughtful.

"That is true."

There was a brief silence between us before I went on.

"He… he asked me to meet up with him, so I did," I revealed. "I saw him over a week ago at the Sacred Forest Meadow."

The doctor didn't reply and I went on.

"He… he looked so handsome even though he was stressed," I continued, with the thought of Link making me smile, "but he told me he needed me, so I couldn't very well turn him away."

The doctor gave me a wayward look when he heard that.

"Saria… of course he's still going to need you… he's still in love with you. He has told me so himself."

I blushed uncontrollably at his acknowledging that.

"I…I…"

Dr. Seaside thought to put a stop to this dialogue.

"Do you think that kind of behavior is wise for the both of you? Do you think you should be seeing him in such a capacity when it is clear you two still love each other very much?"

My throat tightened because I already knew the answers to those questions. So, I didn't bother answering them.

"Think about Ralph," the doctor went on. "Think about how much he loves you and your new life now. He talks about you all the time. You couldn't ask for a more doting husband. Do you really want to ruin that Saria?"

I looked away, feeling guilty with everything he was telling me.

"I have thought about him," I answered finally.

Dr. Seaside pressed the issue.

"And?"

I felt my eyes fill with tears, but I didn't let them spill over.

"And I know I was in the wrong."

There was a brief silence before the doctor went on again.

"Saria did… did anything happen up there in the Sacred Forest Meadow between you two?"

I pursed my lips together and paused for a long moment before nodding.

Dr. Seaside looked at me stunned.

"Saria..."

I sobbed.

"We didn't have intercourse I swear," I promised, "but we did... we did kiss."

He gave me a brief look of disbelief.

"That's how it starts," he warned. "All it takes is one kiss."

I nodded.

"I know, but we stopped ourselves, nothing else happened."

The doctor took in a deep sigh.

"That's good to know," he said, but then added. "Though… my heart does go out to the both of you. I saw what you two went through for each other firsthand. Fate is such a cruel thing at times."

I knew that speech was his own, but it didn't make me feel any better. My eyes refilled with tears.

"That's true."

There was another brief silence between us, one where the doctor got up and serviced several beakers with some concoctions.

"Well, in any such case, since we are here, I don't want to be dishonest with your husband," he said. "I'm going to do a proper examination, draw some blood, and do a routine check-up to make sure everything is okay."

It took me a moment to recollect myself considering what we just discussed, but I soon nodded at his reasoning.

"Okay."

I then pulled up the sleeve to my dress and readied myself for the brief discomfort. After gathering his supplies and coming back over to where I was sitting, I closed my eyes and winced slightly at the little prick and gathering of blood in the tube. Afterwards the doctor bandaged me up, then slowly and methodically dropped several drops of my blood into several tinctures. Four of the beakers didn't change colors, while one in the middle went from blue to bright yellow almost instantaneously.

The doctor raised a brow.

"Hmph," he grunted thoughtfully at the finding and looked over at me, "isn't this interesting."

I gave him a peculiar stare.

"What is it?"

He looked back at the beaker.

"I think I may have a suitable answer for your husband my dear Saria," he said to me.

I was getting a little uneasy at his vagueness.

"What do you mean?"

He then looked over at me and grinned.

"What I mean is… you're pregnant."

~SSS~

Several hours later, Zora's Domain, Link

Shortly after speaking with Zelda, I left Hyrule Castle with three of my most trusted companions: Osfala, Fyrus, and Ravio. I was aware it was untoward to leave the castle with essentially the full brains of the military in tow, but there were no threats precipitously at this time. Besides, the true reason for my secretive departure was the element of surprise. I knew inherently the Zoras would never turn me away. However, I was also aware that if they knew I was coming in advance, certain other factions within their city might be alerted. I wanted to keep this as low key as possible... to present it as just a cordial conversation with an old friend as it were.

The citizens of Hyrule knew I was stepping out once they saw me stepping foot into the city streets. Many of them appreciated how I mingled in the town square among them from time to time. Today could have been looked at as just any ordinary day. I was utilizing that trust for my venture. However, I was also aware that some of the nobles paid some of the peasants to spy for them. It was a lucrative enterprise for a person of very little means. One hundred rupees per secret was a lot of money for an individual solely living off their land, and what better person to spy on than their king. I would keep my greetings clean and simple, but cordial enough so as not to arouse any suspicion. My men and I made our way through the square, but we were a notable group: the king and his three top generals. 'Where were we going to?' I'm sure they all wondered.

Zelda wasn't going to disclose any of what we spoke of to anyone, and I chose my small entourage carefully. I trusted Osfala, Fyrus, and Ravio with my life. These were some of the few men in Hyrule Castle that I confided in without a misgiving. From the days before my becoming king, I knew they had the best interests of the kingdom at heart. They were proponents for the people and I always appreciated that. I knew they would take an arrow for me, or for each other if it called for it. That was the kind of trust I wanted surrounding me. That was the kind of comradery I garnered. I also knew if there was anybody who could spot a deception it was one of them. When I first informed them about where we were going and for what reason, they were all too eager to go with me. They even gave me more insight into the Zora Domain situation.

Saria initially told me that the mon was considerably marked up in an exchange as a way of gouging the people. However, Osfala, Fyrus, and Ravio received a little more intel from some informants in the area. They disclosed that the mon may have potentially been a front for laundering rupees. However, the question begged for what purpose? What were the nobles planning that they needed such a significant amount of money? It was obvious to me now that the Zoras were being duped by this 'becoming Hylian' initiative. It was a ploy for the nobles to make their way into their domain. In any such case, they were potentially being scammed and that was why I was overseeing this matter myself. I didn't want to lose the trust of the Zora people, as they were incredible allies with amazing gifts and talents. I worked closely with Lady Ruto herself to restore Lake Hylia to its former glory. I wasn't willing to lose that goodwill over the presumptuous greed of a few selfish nobles.

Soon thereafter, we arrived at Zora's Domain, and it was every bit as beautiful as I remembered. The blue hued waterfalls cascaded down into sapphire pools of clean water. The perimeter of jade and white pearl escalated elegantly to a serene throne room. The bluffs surrounding the mountains were enchanting. They hadn't changed since the days of my boyhood. However, I immediately caught sight of the unfamiliarities hiding in plain sight. Near the top of the waterfalls, were the apparatuses Saria, and even Rue Morgue, spoke of. They appeared to be digging machines of some kind, and I could bet King Zora had no idea such apparatuses were sitting on his hilltops.

This was not good.

This was not good at all.

I looked at my men knowingly. This was already starting out badly. Seeing we couldn't ride our horses any farther, we dismounted from our steeds and let them roam about the main entrance. We stood, looking around the jaded apertures, before we decided to head on in. There was no sense prolonging the inevitable. The king of the Zoras and I had a long overdue meeting. I just hoped he was ready.

The next chapter will be up soon.