Inspiration: Fight Club; "First rule of the fight club: you never talk about the fight club…"; and Machiavellian maneuvers.
Author's Note: Sorry for the long delay, I had some tragedies in my family, but I am doing much better now. The writing has helped, thank you all for reading. ~ZR~.
Word Count: 13,737
Chapter 26
Several days later, Hebra Manor, a conversation of two nobles
The Cult of Masks had a long history of tradition. The society was founded on the idea of mystic perennialism. True perennialists believed that persons in possession of accurate knowledge were the arbiters of truth. Their dereliction was in the form of everlasting pertinence to everyone everywhere. However, for the Interlopers, this injunction was curtailed to emphasize knowledge based primarily on principles and not exclusively on facts. This caveat allowed for the Cult of Masks to develop a philosophy of existing in plain sight while maintaining a tight notion of secrecy. Secrecy had been the life blood of the society, with words and phrases being exchanged over time with looks, handshakes, and songs of lore. The greatest achievement of the Cult of Masks was being bestowed the honor of carving Majora's Mask. The task was undertaken by an Interloper under the direct guidance of the Moon Goddess. She had given the craftsman a tree of enchanted wood, infused with the power of the Tetraforce, and made a simple request: "Make the mask a true representation of madness." The craftsman took those words to heart, and constantly pondered: what was true madness? Even so, he was successful in his venture and eventually sculpted what was to become Majora's Mask.
Majora's Mask was long believed to be a mystic relic, lost to the ancient world; going from tribes, to temples, to crypts. Until one day a very eccentric Interloper found it while excavating. The Interloper knew instantly what it was when he laid eyes on it and immediately took it in his possession. He knew this would be of great importance to the Cult of Masks, but he very rarely interacted with the other members of the society. However, one fateful day he tactlessly divulged what he had ascertained to another Interloper. Once his actions were realized, the other members demanded that the mask be kept within the society for all the associates to appreciate. However, the Interloper refused, then took the mask with him, and never showed up to another meeting again. For many years, the whereabouts of that Interloper and the mask were unknown.
Over time, it once again became a legend, with only whispers of it being spoken about within the society. Even so, in the recent past there were rumors surfacing that the mask had been used in the land of Termina. Those rumors gained more traction when the so called purveyor of the mask reemerged once again. With the way he was described, it was believed that he was the same Interloper who went into hiding many years ago. However, that would be impossible, because it would mean he would be well over two hundred years old. Besides the assumed phantasmal identity of the owner, the fact remained that the mask was back in circulation. The whereabouts were closer than any recent member could realize.
Currently, two nobles, Lord Filgore and Lord Rue Morgue, received a letter from Lady Bathory stating she had important information to share with them. Admittedly, the two senior aristocrats were starting to express doubts in the young plutocrat. They believed she was being governed more by emotion than logic these days. Recently, she financed a series of projects without the elder two nobles' knowledge, and the ventures unfortunately went nowhere. After the failures, she wrote correspondence to them stating why she made such decisions without their counsel. Her explanations were that the excavations were purely based on a whim… on her intuition. Intuition… it was quite ironic that the nobles found her explanations wayward, because the whole of their society was based on such a philosophy. Even so, Lord Filgore and Lord Rue Morgue knew they couldn't be too conspicuous with their concerns out of respect for her father, who was a brilliant Interloper. Lady Bathory showed promise with her dedication to the cause and the belief system, but she was more of an idealist than a pragmatist. The two men were growing more concerned with her decisions by the day. At the present, before the lady addressed them tonight, they were currently in discussion about the matter.
Lord Filgore was speaking first.
"I think it goes without question that we are closer to our goals than we have ever been," he said to his long time friend, "but I think it's time we discussed our problem."
Rue Morgue grunted softly and sat back in his chair.
"You mean Elvira," he said just above a whisper.
Filgore nodded.
"She's becoming increasingly less reliable with her positions," Filgore went on. "The evidence of her wanting to make peace with the king is proof of that."
Rue understood the point all too well.
"I can't conceive her reasoning behind such a course," he said. "The king has cost her a great deal of money with the Zora venture, and he has threatened her continually with imprisonment. And this is all information she provided to us."
Filgore nodded.
"Yes," he replied, "so the question is why? Why is she being so gullible? She's never shown such reasoning before."
Rue Morgue raised his brows.
"It could be that we over estimated her furtiveness," he said. "Her charms are great, but they will only get a person so far. And then…there's the obvious notion of her being taken in by the king. She is a woman after all, and they do have these silly tendencies of falling in love with men who are beyond their reach."
Filgore rolled his eyes.
"You can't be serious," he said.
Rue Morgue shrugged.
"It's something to consider," he reasoned, "it would explain why she seems to make excuses for him from time to time."
Filgore still considered the benefit of the doubt.
"As right as you are, that is almost insulting to Elvira," he said, "she is young and beautiful true, but she's a lot more cunning than that. Her late father was our contemporary for Hylia's sake, and we know how he operated."
Rue Morgue nodded.
"Then what are you suggesting?" he asked, lowering his voice a bit more. "Are you thinking a coup against us?"
Filgore was quiet for a long time before he glanced over at the door to the antechamber. There were no servants in the room, but that didn't mean there weren't ears present. The gossip mavens got their information somehow.
"That's exactly what I'm thinking," he whispered. "What if she is planning on working with the king against us? What if this is all a ruse to get our guards down?"
Rue Morgue didn't look so confident with the accusation.
"What would give her reason to do such a thing?" he countered. "She has no reason to work with the king when he despises her so. Besides, the prophecy states-"
Filgore groaned when he heard that.
"Don't tell me you believe that rubbish," he interrupted, "we have been Interlopers our entire lives and have yet to see any of the prophecies we were told about to come true."
Rue Morgue stared at his friend surprised.
"Are you saying you don't believe in the Moon Goddess?" he asked.
Filgore studied his friend's face very carefully.
"Let's just say I haven't been the truest of believers for a long time," he admitted. "This whole idea of the goddess being evil and giving her power to her servants is very provocative for story books, but we live in the real world Vlad."
Rue Morgue was quiet for a moment.
"I'm not sure I agree with you on that," he said. "The goddesses do exist, so there would be no reason to not believe that the Moon Goddess exists, and if she does come back we want to be on the right side of history."
His peer challenged that.
"And what if we aren't?" Filgore demanded. "What if we are being duped into being on the wrong side of history?"
Rue Morgue look away for a moment.
"Then we have been duped all the way into believing the lunar tetra, which takes place in a few days," he replied. "We have been duped into finding the maiden of the dark. We have been duped into living in a time when the words of the ancient Interlopers are coming true. I'm sorry, but there are far too many coincidences to simply be ploys by Elvira. She's good, but she isn't that good."
Filgore didn't let up.
"Then how do you explain her behavior?" he demanded quietly. "How do you explain her obsession with these rituals and stories of old when she is only a girl herself? She is younger than our oldest children!"
Rue Morgue saw no issue with that.
"So what," he replied, "we were both young men when we were brought into the fold. Her age should have nothing to do with her credibility."
Filgore was getting more aggravated.
"Then how do you determine her lack of prudence regarding some of the decisions she's made?" he continued. "She has told us the time would be last year, then several months ago, then during the death of the former King of Hyrule, then she stated we needed to find a land called Termina, then that would no longer be needed –it goes on and on and on with this woman! And remember, we were going to leave Hyrule because the king wants us in prison as well! She stopped us from taking voyage and going to Balaam!"
Rue Morgue listened carefully, realizing that Filgore had some points. He remained silent.
"I'm not doubting the lunar tetra Vlad, that can be verified," Filgore went on, "I'm not saying that all of her predictions were bad. I'm simply stating we need to take back the reigns of authority from this woman before she leads us over a cliff."
Rue Morgue was still quiet, pondering over what his friend was trying to tell him.
"Elvira has never claimed to be the leader of our little procession," he said, "she's just the most enthusiastic and she is the wealthiest. So, it's only natural that we would indulge her endeavors more so than our own, especially if she funds them."
Filgore gave his friend an obvious look.
"True, but I have had enough," he said, "if this event with the lunar tetra proves to be another hoax, I will no longer stand for her to direct our section of the brotherhood. Also, she is proving herself to be a nuisance to some of the other members as well."
Rue Morgue took in a deep sigh.
"And what if you are wrong?" he asked. "What if Elvira is right about everything? What then?"
Filgore sat back in his chair and tapped on the upholstery.
"Then I stand corrected and this conversation never happened," he said simply, "I am willing to admit when I am wrong."
Rue Morgue raised a brow.
"Are you certain you'll be content even if you are wrong?" he asked. "That's going to be quite the humble unguent for you to swallow."
Filgore just smirked at his friend's utterance.
"We shall have to wait and see," he said.
Rue Morgue paused for a moment before he nodded.
"Indeed," he said.
There was a brief silence between the two men, milling over the conversation that had just taken place. There were definitely elements that Rue Morgue could not deny his good friend Filgore had, but the idea of a hostile takeover was not the best contingency either. Rue Morgue believed they should at least wait for the lunar tetra before they settled on any irrational secondary decisions. It would at least allow them to regroup, rebrand, and rethink their strategy. It was a great deal to consider.
Suddenly, the silence was interrupted when a moment later the door to the antechamber opened. Not so surprisingly, finally making her appearance was Lady Bathory. She looked beautiful, dressed in a dark green gown with a cape across her shoulders. She was carrying a box in her hands embroidered lavishly with jewels and crystals. It was quite the display, which signaled it was the reason she had gathered the two nobles here tonight. Bathory was walking slowly towards the men, as if she were the arbiter of a great secret.
Her face was fixed with a confident smile.
"Greetings gentlemen," she said softly, "I'm so glad you could make it this evening."
They both nodded at her entry.
"Good evening Elvira," Lord Filgore stated first, "you look lovely tonight, but I must say, you had us a little worried with the long wait."
Lady Bathory' smile broadened.
"I wouldn't have it any other way," she uttered, "for tonight is a night of celebration."
Rue Morgue then glanced over at his friend.
"And… why is that?" he asked.
She cleared her throat before she spoke again.
"I know we have been wracking our brains going over the ancient texts and the mysteries of the past," she started, "but I am here to tell you tonight that the past is now with us and we are one step closer to our goals."
Filgore stared at the beautiful noblewoman for a long moment. He wasn't able to keep the doubt from etching on his face.
"And… what do you mean by that?" he asked.
As if waiting for the cue, Bathory's smiled widened more.
"I see no point in delaying the inevitable," she said, then lifted the top of the box she was holding and presented the continents to her colleagues. "Behold."
Both Filgore and Rue Morgue's eyes widened at the sight.
"Dear Hylia!" Rue Morgue whispered truly shocked. "Is that…?"
Bathory's confidence grew.
"Yes," she said, "Majora's Mask is back in our possession, back with the Interlopers the way it was intended to be."
Filgore almost looked dumbstruck. He stared at the noblewoman stunned.
"But… but how?" he whispered. "Where?"
Bathory giggled and took the mask out of the box to hold it. She stared at it longingly.
"I like to believe it was a gift from the Moon Goddess," she said simply, "she wanted us to have it."
As metaphorical as that was, that explanation was not good enough for the two nobles.
"Elvira…" Rue Morgue trailed, "be serious."
She cut her eyes to the older noble.
"I am serious," she whispered, "the Moon Goddess wanted us to have it. It was delivered to my very manor by an unknown source."
Her explanation quickly raised alarms.
"An unknown source?" Filgore repeated. "You must be joking."
Bathory's smiled faded a little.
"I would hardly joke about such a thing," she said seriously, "I received it several days ago. It was delivered to my manor. I do not know who sent it."
Rue Morgue then took in a troubled breath.
"Have you considered that it could be a replica?" he asked. "A fake? You should never take such things on face value Elvira."
Bathory narrowed her eyes slightly.
"Do you two think I'm an idiot?" she demanded suddenly. "Who in the world would know we were searching for Majora's Mask? Who would know to send the mask to me in the manner with which it came?" She didn't allow either of them to answer her inquiries. "Don't be preposterous."
Filgore studied the young noble for a moment before he replied.
"What about his majesty?" he countered. "Wouldn't he have knowledge on all this considering his role in your tale?"
Bathory was quiet for a moment.
"Come again?" she asked.
Filgore took in a deep sigh and repeated himself.
"Have you considered the king's role in this?" he asked once more. "It could very well be that he sent you a lookalike simply because he may know you are looking for it."
Bathory paused for a long time.
"I… I don't believe that to be the case," she said finally.
Her answer was not reassuring.
"And how do you know?" Rue Morgue asked quietly. "Feelings cannot be the litmus test that we use to gauge this Elvira."
Bathory was quiet again.
"I'm aware of that Vlad," she said, "I'm not a fool."
Filgore sat back in his chair and allowed his cynicism to show. He didn't bother with theatrics.
"Elvira I'm afraid that this set of circumstances I am not comfortable with," he stated honestly. "We need some kind of verification that this mask is the genuine artifact."
Bathory was starting to become impatient.
"And how do you suppose I do that?" she demanded. "Do you want me to wear it now?"
Rue Morgue shook his head.
"Of course not, I was suggesting a more 'Gaporeavellian' approach," he said, "ask the king, while not asking the king."
Bathory raised her brow quizzically just then.
"Ask the king while not asking the king?" she repeated.
Rue Morgue nodded.
"Yes my dear," he replied, "why not?"
Bathory pondered over the idea.
"And do you suppose I do that?" she asked.
Rue Morgue gestured reasonably.
"I'm sure you can request an audience with him," he said.
Bathory stared at the older noble thoughtfully.
"That… that could work," she said more to herself than anyone.
Filgore glanced at his old friend and did not look convinced.
"I don't think that's a good idea," he objected. "If he is aware of the mask, then he will know what you are trying to extract from him."
Bathory glanced over at him.
"Perhaps… but perhaps not," she replied, "it is better to work on the side of caution than not."
Filgore was hardly impressed by that answer.
"Elvira-" he tried.
Bathory was starting to get impatient.
"Dinivane you have got to stop being such a skeptic," she interrupted softly, "do you not believe in anything anymore?"
The older noble looked at her surprised. It seems his agnosticism was more apparent than he perceived. He paused before he replied.
"I am a man of logic first and foremost my dear," he said simply, "and logic is telling me that we should proceed with the utmost attentiveness. Going straight to the potential lion is not the path of caution."
Bathory placed the mask back in the box and closed the lid. She rubbed her fingers over the casing.
"These are exciting times my friend," she said, "and certain risks need to be taken in order to make for success. I will do what Vald suggests and request an audience with his majesty tomorrow."
Filgore shook his head and immediately objected.
"He will not see you," he countered, "you forget Elvira, the king hates you."
The words were true, but Bathory looked at Filgore taken aback at his bluntness. Even Rue Morgue was slightly surprised at his friend's curt and impatient tone. It seemed the veneer for her theatrics was falling.
"Dinivane…" Rue Morgue trailed, trying to reign the conversation in.
Bathory glanced over at the other noble and interceded.
"No… it's alright," she said, "he has a point, the king… the king is not fond of me."
Following her utterance there was a strange silence. It lasted several moments. There was something almost sad in her lonely tone of voice. It was as if she were discerning for the first time that she was being jilted from a deeply admired lover. It was odd and it added more to the hypothesis that the two nobles considered earlier. Perhaps Lady Bathory's affection for the king ran deeper than a superficial admiration for his inferior intelligence. Perhaps she really did have feelings for the handsome monarch. What a predicament for the noblewoman to be in if that was the case. However, Elvira expelled the tension with her resolve to get to the bottom of this situation. She broke the silence with her next utterance.
"Even so, I will come to the castle and request an impromptu meeting," she suggested. "I will come unannounced, and because of who I am, he will have to see me or face the scrutiny of the court."
Rue Morgue nodded slowly, understanding the rationale all too well.
"That is true," he said, "and considering the closeness of the event, he'll either be intrigued, or do the intriguing."
Filgiore, who still was not completely convinced of all this, slowly started to come around.
"That could work," he said, "but I believe you should show up unannounced."
Bathory glanced over at the doubting noble and smirked. Her expression was nondescript, but her words divulged her attitude towards him.
"I'm so glad you approve Dinivane," she said with a hint of sarcasm. "Perhaps I will take a bit of your advice. We wouldn't want to do anything that gets in the way of your logic."
Filgore raised a brow and Bathory simply looked away. There was another silence, before Rue Morgue swiftly and skillfully changed the subject. He was a great mediator.
"We do have one last problem to address unfortunately," he started, looking between his two colleagues. "There is the problem of the Dark Maiden. How are we going to procure her in such little time with such little notice? We can't just snatch her in broad daylight."
It was then Bathory smirked and looked over at her friend.
"Actually," she whispered, "that won't be necessary."
Both nobles looked at her perplexed.
"What?" Rue Morgue asked.
Bathory's confidence.
"She's already here," she whispered the divulgence again, "she was procured this afternoon from the market in Hyrule Castle Town."
Filgore nearly shot up from his seat when he heard that.
"Are you serious?" he asked. "That is quite the task because the king has had her watched like a hawk."
Bathory scoffed slightly.
"Those same hawks can be bribed for rupees," she said, "everyone has a price, everyone. Surprisingly, enough it was the manner of her arrival that astonished me the most. It seems she sought us out. She came freely."
Filgore took a step forward, completely ignoring her last statement.
"Where is she being kept?" he asked.
Bathory raised a brow at his new found enthusiasm.
"Oh, so you're doubting no longer?" she asked sarcastically.
Filgore groaned.
"Will you stop?" he demanded. "This is serious. I wouldn't be practical if I did not express doubts."
Bathory scoffed softly before answering.
"I'm sure," was all she said in reply, then changed the subject. "Anyway, after her arrival I had her placed in the crypt."
Both men looked over at each other. Now Rue Morgue stood up.
"I want to see her," he said suddenly, excitement etched in his voice, "I have to know what the legend looks like."
Bathory grinned at him.
"I'm sure you've seen her in passing," she said, "she's quite beautiful actually."
Rue Morgue shook his head.
"If she is a peasant girl, then I have never seen her," he reassured, "I never associate with peasants, unless… I want pleasure from them."
Bathory raised a brow.
"How overtly conceited," she half-joked. "I hope you aren't expecting that tonight. You know we can't taint the vessel."
Rue Morgue shook his head.
"Absolutely not," he said, "this is pure adrenaline from your news, but if she is here I want to know what the sacrifice looks like."
Bathory was taken in by Rue Morgue's renewed enthusiasm.
"Well then, we shall not wait any longer, we must go see her," she said, "I wouldn't want to keep you in suspense."
Rue Morgue then glanced over at Filgore, who suddenly was just as invigorated as he. This was a crucial moment. The Dark Maiden hadn't made an appearance for the Moonlight Crucible in nearly two hundred years. There were stories about her power, and how she was welded as the vessel for the Moon Goddess, but no one knew exactly how it was to come about or be expressed. Even so, the three nobles made their way to a secondary door leading to the crypt from the antechamber. The walk was quiet and dark.
The manor was built into the mountain, with the extending edifice above ground. It was designed so that all the upper rooms had stairwells, slides, or passageways that led to the crypt. The vault underneath the house was commodious, and was used as a hideaway for Interlopers seeking asylum. The house was used as a refuge maybe once or twice, but Interlopers sworn in the way knew the Bathory Manor was not a haven. It was generally an initiation center. It was built one hundred years before Lady Bathory's birth, and still hailed the original stone foundation. The lower aspects of the manor were carved out of the precious jewels found within the sediments of rock. It was deliberately designed that way as homage to the clan's wealth, power, and ingenuity. It was also the perfect place for the Moonlight Crucible to be exhibited.
The three nobles found their way down a long stairwell to the crypt. Surprisingly, when Lady Bathory opened the door, they were all bathed in a luminescence of multi colored lights: blue, white, pink, green, red, and purple. The iridescence was based off the differentiating stones found in the deposits. Some aspects of the crypt were brilliant, while others were dull. What was interesting though was that the chasm could collect moonlight from the outside through a network of mirrors situated around the vault. In the center of the crypt was a raised aperture carved out of purple and white diamonds. The stone was solid, with the multifaceted aspects of the stone being the feature of beauty. However, the slab was used as an altar for sacrifices. A closer inspection gave way to evidence of blood stains and signs of struggles. The brotherhood attempted to get away from the darker aspects of the Cult of Masks until it was necessary, like the Moonlight Crucible.
The nobles looked around the large room and felt a familiar sense of calm from the meetings that took place there. Besides the large slab in the center of the room, there was also a long table with several chairs against the western most wall, as well as a stone carved fire place in the northern most wall. The table and chairs were the only furnishings in the room. However, to the east of the table was why the trio had come down to the vault in the first place. Looking terrified and slightly haggard in a crystalized cage was the peasant girl. The cage's bars were made of diamonds and quartz, making them virtually unbreakable. The brilliance of the white cell made it seem both pure and horrific. The contrast of the red blood stains on the ground gave evidence of that as well. The peasant girl's hair was mildly disheveled, and she was dressed in a long white ceremonial gown. As soon as she saw the three nobles, she retreated to the furthest corner of the cell, grabbing her knees and trying to guard her body.
Bathory, Filgore, and Rue Morgue all was walked up to the cell and stared at the young woman. The men stared mild confusion, while Bathory simply grinned.
"Hello there Saria," Bathory greeted gently.
The peasant girl did not reply. The two noblemen continued to stare at the young woman slightly off kilter.
"She is the Dark Maiden?" Rue Morgue asked.
Bathory nodded, understanding their hesitance all too well.
"She is indeed," she replied.
Rue Morgue glanced over at his long time friend then back to Bathory.
"She doesn't look like much," he stated honestly, "I thought the Dark Maiden was supposed to be powerful."
Bathory rolled her eyes at his lack of foresight, but then cut them back to Rue Morgue.
"She is powerful," she insisted, "don't let her present state fool you."
The Filgore was going to speak, but Saria immediately reacted to that utterance.
"I am not powerful!" she cried out. "Please! Let me go! Let me return to my family! I don't know anything about a Dark Maiden!"
Bathory paused and stared at the destitute woman for a long time. She then grinned when she thought about what the days had in store for her ahead, and what her presence truly meant to Bathory and the other nobles in her company. They were merely days away from the realization of the Moon Goddess.
"I'm afraid I can't let you go," Bathory replied softly, "you're too important for my plans –our plans. However, I promise no harm will come to your daughter or husband… unless the prospect becomes absolutely necessary."
Saria's eyes widened.
"Absolutely necessary?" she repeated.
Bathory nodded.
"Meaning, if you don't cooperate I will have the rest of you family brought here and you will watch them be destroyed in front of you," she went on.
Saria's breath quickened and she started to hyperventilate.
"You wouldn't…" she tried to reason, "you couldn't, not to my little girl. She's just began her life!"
Bathory then made her point clear.
"Exactly," she said coldly, "so you better make sure you do everything as I tell you to."
Tears filled Saria's eyes.
"Why are you doing this?!" she screamed. "Why would you deliberately keep a mother away from her child?! What kind of monster are you?!"
Bathory took in a deep sigh and raised a brow.
"I think the monster comment is a bit hyperbolic, but what should I expect from a hysterical peasant girl," she replied. "Even so, you forget how you got here. You came to me, and I've already explained the situation to you. You are necessary because of you inherent nature. You are a worthy vessel to bring back a very important personage, a personage from long ago. Without you none of this would be possible. You should be proud that you are part of the future –a part of history. We will all bear witness to it in a few days. You shall see. We couldn't do any of this without you."
Saria looked at the noble horrified. Filgore then grunted at her behavior.
"Hysterical is an understatement," he backtracked, "she seems more like a regular sacrifice than the supposed vessel of the goddess."
Rue Morgue nodded next to him.
"I agree," he said, "this is not what I was expecting at all."
Bathory groaned and looked over at the two men.
"What did you expect?" she demanded softly. "The natural Hylian tendency of any person is to be afraid before one dies. She isn't any more different than any of the other women who had to suffer such a fate."
Filgore raised a brow.
"Which is my point exactly," he replied, "she is supposed to be a vessel of great magnetism and aptitude, not a shrieking pile of tears."
Just then, as if on cue, Saria started screaming from within the cell and placed her hands on her ears. The three nobles were mildly startled by the cry, but soon the screaming abated and a strange occurrence took place. Out of nowhere, a brilliant green hue began to shine off Saria's hair, as if the luminescence of the room suddenly captured into her tresses. The sheen offered a dull, but definitive glow. Saria suddenly took her hands off her ears and looked up at the cell opening. Her eyes were now vibrantly sky blue and focused. The tears on her face were gone and the hysterical look was replaced with a confident one. She stretched both her arms out and crawled slowly forward, away from the corner like a snake. Her smile grew when she contorted her body, where her legs were over her head like an acrobat. From that locus, she did a back bend to a standing position. Then, a gust of wind suddenly came from with the vault to blow her hair back. She moaned softly as she stretched her arms and cracked her back. This… this was no longer the peasant girl. Saria was gone. It was now the Dark Maiden who was in their midst.
The phoenix closed her eyes for a moment before opening them again and staring down the three nobles. Interestingly enough, she focused on Filgore before she spoke up.
"You…" she said to the noble, "what is your name?"
Filgore looked at her surprised.
"Me?" he asked, pointing to himself.
The Dark Maiden nodded.
"Yes," she said quietly, "you."
Filgore was hesitant for a moment, but then spoke up.
"My name is Lord Dinivane Filgore," he replied.
The maiden nodded.
"You… you wanted magnetism did you not my lord?" she asked suddenly in a whispery voice.
Filgore paused again.
"Are you the… the Dark Maiden?" he whispered back.
The maiden didn't answer his question right away. Instead, she looked him straight in his eyes and began taking control of the situation.
"Do you doubt even when she stands before you?" she demanded rhetorically, then slowly undid the ties of her gown and opened the cloth at her chest. Between her large breasts, was a sudden ray of twilight beaming from a crystal in the shape of a diamond. The light was vacillating, as it went up and down her body, emanating from her clothes. "I am the Maiden of the Dark," she said without a hint of doubt, "and you, Dinivane Filgore, will be my first example of what I do to doubters."
The noble looked at her shocked, but then stepped back from the crystalized cage with a hint of fear. However, that didn't prevent the maiden from stretching her arms out once again and suddenly moving to a cadence of a rhythm. There was no music, but she began dancing hypnotically to a song only she could hear. Then, the strangeness happened. Every move she made… suddenly Filgore was now making. Every step she took, Filgore was now taking. Every spin, every nuance, every provocation was mimicked. Until, after the maiden's last move, she held her right arm out like she was doing a choke hold. It was then Filgore wasn't necessarily freed from her conjuring, but understood what it truly meant.
The noble started gasping for air.
"I-I can't breathe!" he cried out in a panicked voice.
The maiden's expression never changed, but Rue Morgue instantly went to his friend's aide.
"What are you doing?" he demanded. "Stop this!"
The maiden did no such thing.
"What does it look like I'm doing?" she countered calmly. "He is a heathen. He must be punished."
Rue Morgue looked shocked, but turned back to his friend. Filgore appeared desperate.
"Vlad!" Filgore cried out, panicking more. "I can't breathe!"
Rue Morgue saw that his comrade was going pale. He went to implore in his behalf.
"Dark Maiden please, let him go!" he pleaded. "He is not your enemy!"
Saria cut her eyes to Rue Morgue.
"He didn't believe I existed," she replied, "then proceeded to insult me. How else am I supposed to take his lack of faith?"
Rue Morgue had no words for the maiden, and Bathory merely remained silent. This was all happening with a faint smile on her face. She seemed transfixed with the Dark Maiden.
"Isn't she amazing?" the noblewoman whispered to no one in particular.
Rue Morgue's eyes widened and he looked over at Bathory stunned. Meanwhile, Filgore was steadily losing air. He was starting to look despondent.
"Elvira… get a hold of your senses," the older noble reasoned, "please implore her to stop this! Dinivane could die!"
Bathory was not quick to respond. She was staring at the Dark Maiden with a kind of admiration and respect. Bathory glanced over at Rue Morgue.
"He lacked faith," she whispered, "why should he be freed? Why should the maiden trust him? Even before coming down here, he was voicing his disdain for what we were doing."
Rue Morgue looked at her dumbstruck.
"Elvira…" he trailed.
Bathory looked back over at the Dark Maiden.
"I have ears everywhere in this house," she whispered, "even when people think I am not listening."
Rue Moregue began looking a little pale himself.
"But… but he is one of our own," he pleaded, "you can't make an example out of him for Hylia's sake!"
Bathory looked disgusted.
"Don't speak of Hylia here," she whispered.
Rue Morgue drew back in disbelief.
"This is turning into lunacy!" he replied. "Elvira… please!"
Bathory took in a deep breath and kept her gaze focused on the maiden.
"It is the vessel's choice to make," she whispered, "it is up to her whether Dinivane lives or not, not me."
Rue Morgue's eyes widened.
"You can't be serious!" he whispered.
Bathory looked stoic.
"I am very serious Vlad," she said softly, "I always am when it comes to matters regarding this."
The noble took a step back in fear at her utterance, then turned his attention back to his friend. Filgore was rapidly declining, his lips now looked blue. Rue Morgue then became frenetic for his friend's life. He knew he had to do something.
"Dark Maiden, I beseech you," he begged, "spare his life and I promise once everything comes to fruition, you will not have a more loyal servant. Please, but don't let him die this way!"
The maiden averted her eyes to Rue Morgue.
"I find it interesting that you would beg for his life when the very same plea was put before you and him from hundreds of maidens and servant boys who are now dead," she replied. "Did their voices not matter? Furthermore, your friend has proven that he is not trustworthy. He does not believe, he never has, unless it was to his benefit."
Rue Morgue then got down on both knees.
"He will believe!" he promised. "Just let him go before it is too late! I beg you!"
The Dark Maiden cut her eyes to Rue Morgue, now prostrated on the floor, then to Bathory who was unyielding in her stance. Filgore was near the point of no return, and in that instant the maiden released her hold. Filgore then collapsed to the floor. The older noble coughed and gasped for air, struggling to retain a breath. Rue Morgue then hurried to his friend's side to see about him.
"Are you alright?" he asked.
Filgore was still wheezing, but nodded through it. Bathory just stared at the two men and never left her position of standing next to the cage. The Dark Maiden too appeared calm, with a subtle fearlessness that was both unsettling and admirable.
Filgore stared at the maiden incredulously.
"You could have killed me!" he rasped.
The maiden just stared back.
"But I didn't," she said calmly, "you had better thank your friend for his resilience and your friendship. Had it not been for him, you would be dead."
Rue Morgue then stood up and helped his ailing friend to his feet. Bathory then left her planted position by the cell, and went walked over to the two men. She stared Filgore right in his eyes.
"I suggest you figure out what side of history you want to be on," she said. "You are either with us, or against us."
Bathory's eyes were cold as Filgore stared back into them. However, rather than challenge the noblewoman with the maiden in such proximity, he simply nodded and continued to get his bearings.
"I understand," he whispered.
Bathory then turned back to the cage and the Dark Maiden grinning at her. The confidence in her expression was infectious.
"The Moonlight Crucible is nearly here," she whispered, "make sure you are all prepared."
Bathory was the first to answer.
"Of course," she replied, "the night of the crucible will be one to remember now… and forever."
The maiden scoffed slightly at Bathory's words, but then turned from the trio and went back to the corner of the cell. A moment later, the maiden grabbed her head and got down on her knees again. She cried out momentarily, and that is what signaled that the maiden was gone. Once again the peasant girl was back in the plutocrats' midst. She turned immediately and looked frightened.
"What happened?" she asked as tears filled her eyes. "What just took place?"
Bathory just stared at the terrified girl, but then grinned.
"It's a shame you couldn't see it," she taunted, "the maiden was magnificent."
Saria gasped and took a step back at hearing that. Bathory then turned away and focused her attention on Filgore.
"Three days," she whispered, "in three days the world will be forever changed. However, in the meantime, I have to plan for an audience with his majesty tomorrow."
Filgore wasn't looking at Bathory in the moment. His gaze was fixed on Saria. He was still rubbing his neck. Seeing her in her current state made him angry.
"That insufferable bitch nearly took my life," he muttered.
Rue Morgue looked at his friend surprised.
"I would be careful with my words if I were you," he warned. "If she comes back out, she may finish the job."
Filgore seemed too embittered in the moment to care.
"I'm going to enjoy when the Moon Goddess comes and devours her," he growled, then turned to Bathory. "The ceremony is taking place in three days? I will be here in the front row!"
Bathory chuckled.
"It's amazing what a little demonstration can do," she teased, "you sound like a different man Dinivane."
Filgore cut his eyes to her.
"Shut up Elvira!" he said scathingly.
Then, before Bathory could utter another word, Filgore headed back for the stairwell to leave. Rue Morgue followed after him to calm him down, but it seemed Filgore was too heated for such theatrics. Bathory merely watched, before turning again to look at the girl crying incessantly on the floor in the cell. The tears made the noblewoman grin.
Soon my dear, she thought, soon all your troubles will be gone.
~SSS~
Several hours earlier the same day: Saria's POV
The marketplace was packed this afternoon, but my mind was too preoccupied to worry about the size or movement of the crowds. I was aware that my time was short and that sooner rather than later something was going to happen. That noblewoman was going to make her move. Over the past several weeks, I did receive anonymous correspondence stating that I needed to be aware of the lunar tetra. It didn't take a genius to know that the correspondence was coming from Link. He sent a timeline with evidential markers pointing to specific dates. According to the lunar calendar, the lunar tetra was only three days away. This meant my chances of speaking with Link personally were slowly becoming nil. Now knowing the gravity of the situation, I realized my feigned ignorance in ignoring him. I was foolish, but I had my pride to think about. I didn't want to make another mistake. Even so, I shouldn't have allowed that to thwart me. At the time, I thought it was the right decision to make.
What's the point of pride if the kingdom is in danger Saria? I scolded myself.
It was food for thought.
I gingerly caressed my once again pregnant belly, still unsure of who the father was. It could have been Ralph or Link. I closed my eyes and took in a deep breath at the notion. My heart was cleaving with guilt for betraying Ralph in such a way. How would I ever make it up to him? When he found out, how would he ever trust me again? To make matters worse, Ralph had no idea about the lunar tetra, the Dark Maiden, or how dangerous him being close to me really was. What if something happened to him because of me? What if Lady Bathory attempted to use Ralph's life as a bargaining chip? Even worse, what if she tried to use Elincia? The more I pondered over these things the more bothered I became.
I'll never forgive myself if something happens to my family, I thought.
I wasn't sure how I was going to contact the hero to let him know of the new developments now taking place in my life. How was I going to get to the Link know what I knew such little time? How was I supposed to prepare? What did I need to be aware of in terms of safety? What did I need to avoid to ensure I wouldn't get captured? Had the Dark Maiden hadn't taken over that day in the Sacred Forest Meadow, I could have asked Link all these things. Even so, with time being so short, should I take the chance and request an audience with him? Should I show up unannounced and throw caution to the wind? The possible fate of Hyrule was at stake, of course I should.
Stop being a simpleton Saria, I thought.
The more I considered the impromptu audience, the more it seemed like the only viable option. In terms of making the idea come to fruition, my only choices were this afternoon or tomorrow morning. Tomorrow seemed too late to me. Of course, it would also be insanely convenient if Link just happened to play my song and contact me that way. He had done so in the past and I could only hope he would do so again.
I wish I could send my thoughts to you hero, I reasoned.
Even so, having considered all this introspectively, I looked ahead to the sundry vendor and made a minute decision. If I wanted anything to happen, I needed to make it happen now. I was going to go to the castle. Matilda was currently watching Elincia and she was only paid up for the next couple hours. However, if I hurried and made a fuss about seeing the king, I was certain Link would understand my premeditated irrational behavior and speak with me. With my sudden new found resolve, I turned and headed for north Castle Town.
I can't let this opportunity pass me by, I thought.
I started working my way through the crowd in the opposite direction. I had to make it to Hyrule Castle before the noon time tours of the gardens ceased. For the last several months, the royal family allowed the citizens of the city to visit the gardens due to the botany architect's growing popularity. The designer used new methods of tilling the ground to grow the most viable flowers. The result led to the most beautiful gardens in the kingdom. Several articles were written about them in the Hyrule Historia. I could use the tours as a cover to make my way to the counsel hall. I knew Link took afternoon audiences from time to time.
Even so, there was something else for me to think about. The last thing I needed to entertain was the embarrassment of what happened between the king and I, or the gossip mavens wandering eyes, but that could become an issue. It wouldn't take much for them to put two and two together and realize I was the same woman who caused Link that public scorn and shame a couple years back. The charlatan. The whore, as they used to refer me to me as. The… the…girl with the green hair. When they saw me, the rumors would resurface. Ralph's family would learn about my scandal with the king, and there would be eventual disharmony again. Even so, right now none of that mattered. None of it. If the Moon Goddess was real, she was going to find a way to get back to Hyrule, and she was going to use me somehow to do so.
I can't let that happen, I thought.
I was making headway and was nearing the north gate, when suddenly, a sharp searing pain jolted between my eyes. It was incredibly jarring. I unintentionally yelped, causing several people around me to stop what they were doing to see about me.
Oh no! I thought, understanding the implications of this all too well.
"Ahhhh!" I shrieked.
An older woman standing nearby was immediately startled. She hurried over to me.
"Are you alright my dear?" she asked.
I was holding on, hoping against all hope that the pain would go away.
Fight it Saria! I told myself. Fight her! Don't let her out!
The entity inside me must have known what I was trying to do. These past few weeks have been a constant struggle. The Dark Maiden appeared more often now. I lost hours, sometimes days to her from my family. I would wake up in awkward situations and have no memory of what was going on. Several times when I was intimate with my husband, it started when I was blacked out as her. It was apparent she had studied my mannerisms enough to mimic me into having everyone think she was me. That was the other reason I didn't want to see Link before. I wasn't sure if I could keep control of her, and she was getting more powerful as the lunar tetra neared. If I lost control now, there would be no telling how long I would be out. I might not come back considering the closeness of the event.
"Ahhhh!" I cried out again.
Fight it! I told myself.
Suddenly her voice came up from the recesses of my mind.
"Did you honestly think I would let you go to Hyrule Castle without me?" she whispered in my head. "You don't think I'm aware of what you're trying to do? You might as well give up now, you know you won't win."
The pain intensified and I doubled over. The woman tending to me got down on her knees next to me.
"I'm taking you to the doctor's office," she said a hint of authority, deciding for me, "you're going to feel my arm around your waist. Don't be alarmed."
I tried to nod, but the pain worsened and that only meant I was on the losing end of the battle. Suddenly, the pain subsided completely, and was when terror completely engulfed my body. I knew she had taken over. I was suddenly in the recesses of my mind.
No! No! I thought. No! NOOOOO!
Then, there was nothing but darkness.
~SSS~
A few moments later
I opened my eyes and took in a deep breath. The air was fresh and crisp. I noticed an older woman crouching next to me with her arm around my host's waist. She looked concerned, but soon her concern lessened when I blinked and greeted her with a smile.
"Are you alright?" she asked again. "Are you ready for me to take you to the doctor's office?"
I helped myself up off the ground, then went to assist her. She looked at me surprised when she saw my outreached hand and change of disposition.
"That won't be necessary ma'am," I said, "I just had a little headache spell, but it is now over. Sometimes they hit my like a thief in the night. They come and they go."
The woman appeared flummoxed.
"That doesn't seem very safe," she reasoned.
I nodded.
"I understand your concern, but it is something I've been dealing with for years," I replied, "thank you for your concern though."
She gave me an offhanded stare, but still wasn't convinced.
"Are you sure?" she asked.
I nodded again.
"I am," I reassured, "I'm so sorry to have worried you or anyone else."
The woman's features softened a little.
"Well…" she trailed, "if you insist, please be more careful in the future."
I grinned at her.
"Absolutely," I replied, "thank you for your concern."
It was then I curtsied at her and turned in the opposite direction. I had to ensure that my host didn't try to break free again, and if she did, she would be in a situation where it would do her no good. It was then an idea came to my head.
Lady Bathory, I thought, the priestess…
I knew exactly what I needed to do in that moment. Afterwards, I headed towards south Castle Town to a tavern where I knew a bunch of soldiers gathered at. When I walked in, several of them were startled when they recognized me. Lady Bathory had bribed several of them to follow my host for weeks. I knew this because I noticed more eyes on my host as of late. I was sure they were planning to apprehend her sooner rather than later. Instead of making a spectacle of such a scheme, why not make it easy? Why not just allow them to escort my host to her?
"What are you doing here?" one of them growled pretentiously.
I curtsied to keep in character. I didn't even feel threatened.
"Which one of you gentlemen is Bram?" I asked.
The group of men grew quiet at my question, surprised at my knowing the appellate on one of them. The silence remained until one soldier near the bar finally acknowledged me.
"Who wants to know?" he countered.
I immediately followed the sound of the voice and walked over to him, not wanting to make a scene. I looked at him innocently.
"Are you him sir?" I asked.
He studied my face for a moment before he nodded.
"I am miss," he replied.
I then clasped my hands together.
"Can you please do me a favor?" I asked him softly.
His manner seemed to relax when he saw how soft spoken I was.
"Which is what exactly?" he asked.
I drew in a little closer and saw that he was slightly taken in by my host's beauty, most of the men were. His armor was slightly kinked.
"I need you to take me to Lady Bathory," I whispered.
His eyes widened in surprise at my divulgence.
"Lady Bathory?" he repeated.
I nodded.
"I must speak with her regarding something very urgent," I whispered.
Bram paused for a moment, no doubt finding the request odd, especially considering he was one of the men spying on my host for profit.
"Ma'am…" he trailed, "it's a four hour ride from Castle Town to Mount Hebra."
I looked at him undeterred.
"That's alright," I replied.
Bram tapped his fingers on the surface of the counter.
"My watch just ended," he stated all of a sudden, "I'm tired."
I then looked at him imploringly.
"Please," I begged, "I must speak with her. I have no other options but to ask you."
The soldier hesitated again.
"What's in it for me?" he asked gruffly.
I sighed, but then unbeknownst to him I opened my host's purse and pulled out an electrum rupee worth ten thousand rupees. The other soldiers in the room looked on shocked as well as Bram.
"I will give you this," I replied, "it's all I have, but it's worth it to me."
Another soldier then chimed in, immediately having a change of heart.
"If he won't take you miss, I would be glad to take you," he offered.
"So would I," said another.
"So would I," said another still.
Bram then saw his predicament and addressed the other men.
"There's no need for that," he said to all of them, "I have graciously changed my mind." He then turned his attention back to me. "When would you like to leave?" he asked.
I didn't hesitate.
"Now," I replied.
Bram saw the determination on my face and didn't flinch.
"Very well then," he said, "let's go."
With that, I left the tavern with Bram. The other soldiers were looking at him with a bit of envy. We started for Mount Hebra, and knew then and only then that now the vessel for the Moon Goddess was going to be secure. I stared out the widow of the carriage he procured for the journey as the snowy mountains showed in the distance.
I'm on my way, I thought.
Nothing was going to stop me now.
~SSS~
The next day, Hyrule Castle: Link's POV
My attention was preoccupied consistently from the audiences this morning. In just two days the lunar tetra would take place, and I had not spoken to Saria in weeks. Even at the warnings of Farore and Zelda, I attempted to contact Saria, but she would not answer me. Several times I thought to go to her home, but ruled against it because it would cause more harm than good. Even so, due to the urgency of the moment, I did venture to her residence one afternoon in disguise on a whim, only to find she was not there. After that attempt, I had to digress. In an effort to warn her I sent her correspondence anonymously, but I still had no idea if she truly knew what was going on.
I still had no idea if she truly knew what happened in the Sacred Forest Meadow that afternoon. Her expression was one of absolute shock when she awakened. There was a strong possibility that the only time I was really with her was when she came to at the end. She seemed genuinely surprised when she saw me, but I couldn't rightly determine if that was her or the Dark Maiden portraying her. Her mannerisms before anything had taken place were spot on with Saria's. Though, admittedly she was a little more confident and flirtatious than she had been in the past. In any such case, time was short and I needed to make a decision. This situation was beyond just us now.
Tomorrow, I thought, whether she likes it or not, I'm going to go see her tomorrow.
I all my introspection, my attention was still averted to the person speaking in front of me.
"So you see your majesty, that is why I think it is of the greatest fortitude for you to consider this measure of public investment of iron ore," merchant was saying. "This will lead to increase trade between Balaam and Hyrule for years to come. Who knew such an island had such mineral deposits?"
I was only half listening.
"That is a very judicious point," I replied.
The merchant looked to capitalize on that point.
"Seeing that that is the case," he went on, "would you be open to a test study of the ore your majesty? I can assemble a team of geologists and be at Balaam within a week to retrieve samples for investigation."
It was an intriguing proposition, but the lunar tetra in a few days threatened to dismantle any proposals the merchants guild was making. I appreciated his forward thinking, but wanted to end this discussion because my mind was not fully coopting what the merchant was saying.
"Leave your proposal with my steward and I will consider it later," I ordered. "You may schedule a meeting with me next week to talk about the results."
The merchant then stared at me with a bit of hope.
"Thank you sire," he said, "I look forward to it."
I simply nodded.
"Think nothing of it," I replied, "you may be dismissed."
The merchant bowed.
"May the goddesses grant you peace your majesty," he said.
"Likewise," I replied.
With that, my steward walked up to the merchant and took the scroll with the information from him. Ironically, I thought it was a little old fashioned for him to use a scroll to dictate information, when the codex was so much more efficient. However, I also realized it was going to take some people a little bit longer to embrace certain changes in this world. It was no matter, he was the last audience for the day, and for that I was grateful. Even so, before I could depart, the courtier at the hall entrance suddenly scuttled over to my throne.
He looked surprised and flustered for a moment as he approached, which was odd, but afterwards he bowed before he addressed me.
"Forgive me sire for this seeming impertinence," he started, "but you have a request from a spur-of-the-moment visitor who wishes to speak with you."
I looked at him taken aback.
"An spur-of-the-moment visitor?" I repeated.
The courtier nodded.
"Yes," he said, "she wishes to speak with you."
I paused for a moment.
She? I thought, and suddenly got hopeful. Saria?
"Who is it?" I asked anyway.
The courtier looked at me excitedly just then.
"Lady Bathory my lord," he replied.
I paused again at hearing her name, knowing the implications behind her wanting to see me. Even so, I knew the hesitation would cause more murmuring than not. And at my very thought, there suddenly was a low hum of whispers in the court regarding the slight hiatus. Still, I did not speak right away.
The courtier waited for my reply.
"How shall I answer sire?" he asked.
I couldn't prolong this. So instead, in a minute decision I nodded.
"Send her in," I replied.
Afterwards, the courtier bowed, turned, and headed back to the door. The murmuring never ceased, and only amplified when the lady walked in the door with her escort. The chatter finally desisted when she bowed and smiled graciously at me. Admittedly, she did look beautiful in the white gown she was wearing. The dress was actually more modest than her standard fair, with a white cape that clasped at the front, and tapered down to her waist. Her black hair was braided down her back, and she was wearing makeup that highlighted her incredible crystal violet eyes. She almost appeared innocent.
I spoke up first.
"Greetings my lady," I said, trying to be civil.
She curtsied.
"Greetings my lord," she replied, "may the goddess have grace on you."
I raised a brow.
"Thank you," I said anyway, "what can I do for you?"
She grinned.
"I came because poetry is one of my favorite past times," she divulged, "I was wondering if you would like to solve a riddle for me."
My ears perked at hearing that.
"You requested an audience to recite a riddle my lady?" I replied.
She took a step forward and nodded.
"It's not just any riddle sire," she replied, "but one I think would be most advantageous for you. It would be quite the education."
I paused again, staring at Elvira, knowing this had something to do with the upcoming event. What better way to throw it in my face than to taunt me about it with loquacious informatics. However, I wasn't going to allow her to have her say in front of everyone simply so she could gloat. I decided to turn the tables on her.
"You intrigue me Lady Bathory, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to decline," I replied.
She raised a brow and looked at me slightly taken aback.
"Really your majesty?" she said. "That's too bad. I was thinking this would be right in your jurisdiction, if I'm stating the idiom right."
I smirked, then stood.
"You have it right," I said, "however, I have another suggestion. Perhaps you can entertain me with your riddle in a more spontaneous way, a little tit for tat if you will."
Bathory's surprise never went away.
"Spontaneity sire?" she repeated.
I then left the throne and walked up to her, which shocked everyone watching, and presented her my right arm. The court once again started chattering like hens in a roost.
"Yes," I said, without giving any other clues, "spontaneity; care to venture forth?"
She stared into my eyes for only a brief moment before taking my arm and nodding slowly.
"Like you, you have me intrigued sire," she said almost like she couldn't help herself.
I stared into her eyes for a moment before leading the way to the exit. With that, we stunned everyone by leaving the counsel room and heading to my private study. When the door shut behind us and we were in the halls, the crowd erupted into more talk. Bathory was looking up at me astonished, but seemed more mesmerized than anything. I thought that was odd, especially considering she knew I despised her. After the short walk to the other side of the castle to my private spire, I dismissed the guard there, who also looked stunned at my guest, then invited Lady Bathory inside. Once we were alone, I locked the door and turned to give her my attention.
When I turned, she was staring at me with a grin.
"Bravo," she said, "your exit will be the talk of the town tomorrow."
I raised a brow.
"Indeed," I said.
Bathory gave me a quick once over.
"I have to say, you certainly leave an impression sire," she stated, "you look so handsome today."
I ignored the compliment.
"I was going to say you seem to be channeling innocence as well," I replied, "you look lovely too."
Her smile widened.
"I try," she said, then walked over to the window overlooking Hyrule Castle Town. "So, is this your private keep?"
I studied her for a moment.
"Why do you ask?" I inquired.
She shrugged.
"I'm just curious," she replied.
I then walked over to her.
"You could say that," I said, "I come here to reflect."
She turned to look me in the eyes.
"And now you have invited me," she said, "I'm honored."
I shook my head, wanting to dispel any notions she may have had.
"Don't flatter yourself," I whispered, "you know why I did what I did."
Bathory raised a brow.
"What's the matter?" she whispered back. "You don't trust me?"
I gave her a knowing look.
"No," I said simply, "not at all. I know how you operate."
She gave my face a once over.
"I'm not your enemy sire," she whispered.
I scoffed softly and shook my head.
"Stop it," I replied, "you know damn well that that isn't the case. You would kill me if you could."
She shook her head at my words.
"That would never be my intention," she replied, looking serious for a rare moment, "I respect you far too much to do any harm to you."
I stared into her eyes to determine if she was serious. She seemed to be.
"You respect me so much that you wish to make a fool of me in front of your noble friends?" I asked.
She grinned as her eyes searched my face. Afterwards, she looked out the window once more.
"A mere theatric for a man I knew could handle it," she replied, "but I had no idea you would react this way."
I took in a deep sigh and was growing bored of this runaround.
"So state your piece so you can be about your business," I said, "and don't bother with the theatrics here, they aren't necessary."
Bathory turned to look at me again.
She smiled.
"I know you won't believe this," she started all of a sudden, "but that quality is why I find you so attractive. You're to the point and serious with a good heart. It's very noble."
I wasn't going to be distracted.
"You can pay my nobility back by more talking and less stalling," I said, "well?"
Bathory looked away again.
"Fair enough," she said, "but… but I have a confession to make first."
I was growing tired of this. I simply stared at her and waited for her to go on.
"Which is?" I pressed.
For some peculiar reason her cheeks blushed when she turned to look at me once more.
"This will seem odd to you coming from a woman like me," she whispered with a hint of vulnerability, "but I wish I had met you long before the queen had. I wish I could have encountered you when you were the hero traveling the world… without being attached to someone else."
I stared slightly taken aback.
"Excuse me?" I replied.
She blushed more.
"You're such a good and honorable man," she whispered more to herself than to me.
This was very strange considering the circumstances.
"What exactly are you saying… Elvira?" I replied.
She seemed encouraged by the subtle intrigue in my tone, but immediately avoided my eyes.
"I'm… I'm in love with you," she said quietly.
My brows lifted surprised and I paused for a long time after hearing that.
"What?" I whispered.
She swallowed hard.
"I'm in love with you," she repeated, "you're everything I've ever yearned for in a man."
This was certainly not what I was expecting.
"I see," was all I said in reply.
Bathory finally met my eyes again.
"Does that surprise you?" she asked.
I couldn't lie, I nodded.
"It does," I replied.
There was another brief silence between us where I determined that was not the only factor bringing her down here.
"That could not have been your only reason in wanting to see me," I stated, "surely you have other things you would like to discuss."
Bathory stared into my eyes for a long time.
"I do," she replied, "in fact, I think you will find this next topic most refreshing."
I waited for her to go on.
"Try me," I said.
Her eyes searched my face for a moment.
"But before I do, I have one last request," she whispered for some reason.
I found her behavior so odd.
"Which is?" I asked.
She drew in a little closer to me.
"Will you… will you kiss me?" she whispered.
I drew back.
"What?" I demanded. "Why?"
She didn't seem deterred.
"Will you kiss me?" she repeated. "Just once?"
I shook my head.
"Elvira-" I tried, tired of these theatrics.
She went to shush me with her finger.
"I am not saying this to you as a joke or jest," she interrupted, "I just want to know what it's like to be kissed by an honorable man without the hate."
I stared at her incredulously and saw she was dead serious.
"This is madness," I muttered.
She nodded.
"I know," she said, "but appease me just once… please."
I took in a deep sigh and stared at her for a long time. She did not ride all the way to Hyrule for a kiss. This meant something more. This meant something to the story she constantly thought about in her head. Her role… my role… she was a strange noble. However, I knew such roles were taken seriously by people like Bathory who believed as deeply the things that she espoused. She still saw me as the role of the Sun Prince. This kiss she wanted had something to do with that. I deduced that I would appease her if it meant her giving me a clue into what she truly wanted.
It was then I nodded.
"Alright," I whispered back finally, "but don't expect anything else."
Bathory's eyes widened slightly and she suddenly looked excited.
"I won't expect anything else," she replied.
With that, I hesitated again, but then reached in close to her and kissed her softly on her lips. She in turn kissed me back, but it was much much deeper on her end as I knew it would be. She opened her mouth to me and wanted me to do the same, which I did not, but she tried her best to seduce. When she started getting a little too voracious, I pulled her away with a look of warning. She attempted to reconnect, but I stopped her.
"That's enough," I warned, "I've complied with your request, no more."
She wasn't immediately deterred.
"Just a little longer," she whispered, "please."
I shook my head.
"No," I said firmly, "this is going to get out of hand if we don't stop ourselves."
She looked disappointed at my utterance, but then understood.
"You're right," she said, "but I must say, the queen is very lucky."
I studied her face for a moment, trying to figure out what was going on in her head.
"Elvira… why did you come here today?" I asked gently. "Tell me the truth."
She was quiet for a long time before she looked into my eyes again.
"I came here because I have a question to ask you," she started suddenly, then asked, "where is Majora's Mask?"
My eyes widened stunned.
"What?" I demanded.
She studied my face for a moment before repeating herself.
"Where is Majora's Mask?" she asked again.
Involuntarily at her utterance I took hold of her elbow and pulled her to me.
"Why are you asking such a question?" I demanded.
She appeared stoic after that and never answered my inquiry. She seemed to be gauging me.
"Do you not know where it is?" she asked.
I narrowed my eyes at her.
"That mask is not to be trifled with," I warned, "it nearly destroyed another whole world next to this one. You've read the story of Termina. You know the history."
She then reached up and caressed my cheek. She looked relieved for some odd reason.
"You… you really don't know where it is, do you?" she whispered.
That question wasn't tempered with intrigue as much as it was with taunting. The little trust I had in her was waning.
"What aren't you telling me?" I asked.
With that, a smile spread across her face.
"You really are noble," she said, ignoring my question. "With that being the case, I have an invitation to extend to you personally. Two days from now I'm having a… a ball at my manor and I would like for you to come."
My eyes widened slightly.
"A ball?" I whispered.
She drew in closer and narrowed her eyes at me.
"I'm sure you know what is happening two days from now," she said, "the lunar tetra… you of course are one of the guests of honor."
My hold on her tightened.
"Are you conducting the crucible at your residence?" I demanded. "Are you insane?"
She raised a brow.
"So you do know of its significance?" she asked rhetorically. "I knew you would figure it out. You're very clever. It passes over most people's head as just another day, but not this time. There, of course, will be another important guest as well, a certain girl with green hair. I'm sure you know her."
I didn't realize my own strength, but my grip tightened even more at her utterance, and for a moment Bathory tensed up and looked afraid.
"I guess I touched a nerve because you're hurting-" she tried.
"What have you done with Saria?" I interrupted.
She stared into my eyes, stunned at my change in demeanor.
"For all your virtues, they are also your vice," she said, "you aren't very subtle about your feelings for that girl."
My breathing started to quicken.
"I swear to you, if any harm comes to her, I'll kill you," I threatened.
Bathory was quiet for a long time without flinching.
"Then it will be an honorable death," she whispered, "I can't think of another more appropriate way of dying than by your hand my lord."
She was completely missing my point.
"That isn't a threat Elvira," I warned, "that's a promise."
Her eyes searched my face. She suddenly nestled against me.
"Then it is a welcome promise," she whispered, resting her head on my chest. "It is destiny."
I was quickly losing my patience.
"You've gone mad in your obsession with the Moon Goddess," I said, "why can't you see the recklessness of your decision?"
She looked up at me and nodded.
"I have gone mad," she whispered, "and it is for that reason I have been chosen as the priestess of the forthcoming night. It is fate. I have been bestowed with the mark of Majora to welcome the Moon Goddess back."
I pulled her away from me to look her in the eyes again.
"You don't have to do this," I reasoned, "you don't have to make this decision."
Her admiration for me only grew.
She smiled.
"You even sound like him... the Sun Prince," she whispered, "so noble, so true. I thank you for your concern."
Bathory truly seemed to have lost her senses. Nothing I was saying was getting through. She then curtsied as if she were about to leave, but I stopped her.
"Where do you think you're going?" I demanded.
Bathory looked at me innocently.
"I must go," she said quietly, "I have many things to prepare."
I stared at her in complete disbelief.
"You aren't going anywhere," I replied, "you're under arrest for treason to the throne. You're going to prison."
Bathory gave me a nondescript look, but then slowly shook her head.
"No I'm not," she said quietly. "If you throw me in prison, Saria will die."
When I heard that, all the blood drained from my face.
"What?" I whispered.
She nodded.
"I will kill her and guess what?" she taunted. "Her body will still be a vessel for the Moon Goddess."
It was there I caught her in her lie.
"That isn't true," I rebutted, "the Moon Goddess must have a live sacrifice in order to besiege the vessel. You can't kill Saria if you want the Moon Goddess back."
She seemed impressed with my comeback.
"Bravo," she replied, "it seems I've underestimated you again. Someone's been doing their research."
I was losing my patience.
"I'm done with your games Elvira," I growled.
She smirked at me.
"You also forget that if you throw me in jail it will be war with Balaam," she stated, "either way, you lose something your majesty. Are you willing to risk open war over one woman?"
I took hold of her shoulders again and felt an anger I hadn't felt in many years. I usually kept it at bay, but Bathory just conjured it out of me.
"You're a monster!" I seethed. "But you won't be victorious! The Moon Goddess will not come back to destroy Hyrule! I can guarantee you that!"
At my utterance, she closed her eyes and let out a loud moan. Honestly, she looked like she just had an orgasm. It was quite strange. Her body jerked for a moment and she appeared sweaty afterwards. When she relaxed, she collapsed in my arms and I let her go. I had had enough. I could deal with her nonsense no longer.
"Get out," I said, "get out before I change my mind. Get out before I risk open war and have you locked away. You will see me two days hence, and if Saria has been harmed, mark my words: you will die."
Bathory stepped back and got her bearings together, looking at me more with desire than anything else.
"Very well," she whispered, "but before I die, my one wish is for you to make love to me your majesty. Your powerful words will never be enough. Do you not see the affect?"
I stared at her completely taken aback.
This woman is insane, I thought.
Not wanting to entertain this any longer, I walked over to the door and opened it for her. The guard stationed down the hall quickly caught sight of me and hurried over.
He bowed before he spoke.
"Yes my lord?" he asked as he approached.
I was quick with my command.
"Lady Bathory needs to be escorted outside the castle," I ordered, "no one is to stop and speak with her, no one."
The guard looked at me surprised, but then promptly followed the order.
"Yes sire," he replied, then turned his attention to the noblewoman.
Bathory glanced over at me with the desire never leaving her eyes. She curtsied again at the door and auspiciously blew me a kiss.
"Thank you for your time sire," she whispered, "you were incredible."
I knew she what she was trying to paint this as, and judging from the subtle change in the guard's face, she may have been successful.
Wrong woman, I thought, wrong woman.
Even so, the guard took Bathory and escorted her out of the castle. During her trek down the hall, she looked back at me once and smirked. She really was deplorable.
"Goddesses… I despise that woman," I muttered to myself.
In turn, I headed back to the counsel room, but was startled slightly when I saw another unexpected guest trying to enter the chamber. He was being apprehended by two guards.
"Please," he was begging, "please let me through, I must speak with the king!"
I paused again before heading down the hall, and more guards came at the commotion. However, I looked on astonished when I recognized who the young man was. That flash of golden hair dispelled it all.
"Dear Hylia," I whispered to myself, "that's Ralph."
Thank you for reading. Any criticism is welcome.