Back at the Castle, Impa hurries to the top of the tower to attend to Her Majesty's needs. She knocks on the door three times. When there is no response, she opens the door. She is greeted by a chaotic scene of clothes strewn over the floor and an open suitcase lying on the bed. The pregnant Queen leans into the depths of her wardrobe, flinging shoes over her shoulder like a child with dolls.
"Your Majesty?" Impa calls in confusion. "What is the meaning of this?"
"Oh, Impa…" she pulls her face from the wardrobe: a mess of hair stuck to tear-streaked cheeks. "I've done something truly terrible!"
The Royal Attendant rushes over to calm her down. "Your Majesty, please take a seat on the bed. It is unwise for you to be on your hands and knees in your condition."
She takes the Queen by the hand and guides her to the bed.
"You must promise not to judge me for what it is I am about to tell you, Impa!" she pleads. "You must promise not to disclose it to anyone! Promise!"
"Of course, Your Majesty!" Impa vows. "Please tell me what has gotten you in such a state of distress!"
The Queen sniffs and snivels as she recites her misdeeds. "It all began when I was still a youngster…like any foolish adolescent, I rebelled in the face of my parents and went on a jaunt around Hyrule. On my travels, I encountered a rather handsome fellow who joined me in my tomfoolery. We shared the same humour and wonder for the world, and we could not help but fall in love.
Alas, it was not meant to be. I outgrew him and returned to the house of my parents. Years passed: I fell in love and settled down with the man of my dreams and earned the title of the Queen of Hyrule. Only when it was too late was I enlightened that the boy I once travelled with was also a close friend of my husband, the King. Their aristocratic families attended the same exclusive events and they had grown up together. We recognised each other instantly, but never let on.
Then, one day, our paths crossed, and we shared a moment of unrequited passion. It was then that he confessed his love for me, oh woe! I deterred his advances, but he began to send me letters, recalling fond memories of our shared past. I would respond in the politest way, but I could not help but fall again. Our correspondence developed into feelings of deep desire and now he has left me with an ultimatum: to remain here in the Castle or to run away with him. Henceforth, I lie here tonight stranded between an open suitcase of wistful opportunities and a throne of burden and responsibility."
Impa shakes her head. "Your Majesty…I understand that you did not request any advice on this matter…but your people need you! His Majesty needs you! Your baby needs you! Your choice should be clear!"
"Oh, I understand that perfectly, Impa!" she sighs sadly. "The King has granted me the whole world alongside eternal love…but I cannot resist the urge to pursue the path not taken. Do you understand my meaning?"
Her Attendant ponders. "I do, Your Majesty. The crown you wear is heavy with expectations that not even I can truly comprehend. But that crown also holds the legacy of those who have passed before you: those who rose in the face of adversity to fight and represent the people of Hyrule and stand for their right to life. It is this honour bestowed upon the Royal Family that marks them as the highest and most respectable people in all the land. To throw it all away for the sake of some lost suitor would not only bring shame on your people, but shame on yourself. You've earned your place on the throne. Do not be so hasty to give it up."
The Queen looks into the crimson eyes of the Sheikah, absorbing Impa's incredible speech with care. "Everything you have told me makes so much sense…how could I possibly place my fancies above the needs of my country…my husband…and most importantly, my child!" She places her palm on her belly to illustrate. "I have been foolish. I admit fault. I shall never allow myself to get so carried away with such ridiculous notions ever again!"
"I'm glad to hear it, Your Majesty."
The two share an embrace, sealing their pact of silence.
"I have just one more question to ask, Your Majesty." Impa requests. "Can you disclose the identity of your suitor?"
The Queen sighs shamefully. "Count Caedis."
