The king's tent was crowded. Link shoved his way through, making way for Zelda. Sir Bertrand, Sir Osmund, and Sir Stephen all followed behind, summoned by the alarm.

"Zelda! You're safe!"

Zelda ran towards her father and embraced him tightly. "I am glad to see you well too, Father!"

Link nodded to the rest of the knights and approached the King's Guard. An older knight stepped forward.

Link shook the offered hand. "Sir Mateo."

"Sir Link. Your report, please."

Link quietly recounted the incident to him. "It is my recommendation that the King and the Princess be relocated to a more defensive position inside castle walls. Master Kohga should be contacted and questioned."

Sir Mateo nodded. "I agree with your assessment of the situation. There are too many civilians around the tent."

Link dipped his head again in a brief nod.

"Well done, Link," said Sir Mateo, eyes crinkling at the corners. "I still remember your first report - you've improved since then!"

Link flushed and stammered out a few words.

Sir Mateo laughed jovially. "Your Majesty," he said, turning to the King. "I believe we are ready to give our report. Sir Link, could you please describe the incident again?"

Link stood a little straighter as the King's eyes fell on him and retold the incident and his advice.

"Thank you, Sir Link. You have been successful in keeping my daughter safe, and I truly cannot commend you enough."

Link bowed.

The King continued. "However, I must insist on a different plan for tonight. I have no intention of leaving the tent."

Link blinked. He started to open his mouth to protest-

"Your Majesty, if I may," Sir Mateo interrupted. "I agree with Sir Link. The castle is better equipped to keep both you and Her Highness safe. We do not know if the would-be assassin was working alone, so it isn't unreasonable to expect another attack. While we investigate, our priority remains your safety."

"Yes, I understand. But we've just experienced a massive destruction of our kingdom. Our people need morale and support. I must be here, on the ground with them, as an example of our resilience."

Link waited for Sir Mateo to continue pressing his case, but he only bowed.

"As you wish, Your Majesty. Princess?"

Zelda startled. "Yes?"

"Would you like to remain with His Majesty in a tent outside or return to the castle?"

"Yes, I… I will remain with my father in a tent outside as well."

"Princess," Link said quietly. "You just got attacked and you still need to rest. Please consider staying in the castle."

She met his eyes. "Thank you for your concern, Sir Link, but I will stay outside. If it helps the people of Hyrule to know that their king and princess are here with them, then I will do my part as well."

Link frowned. Zelda looked away.

Sir Mateo bowed. "Of course, Princess."