Central Hyrule – Hyrule Castle
To say that King Rhoam was furious would be a vast understatement. Link had rarely seen the man so livid. However, his ire was tempered by Chancellor Cole, who astutely pointed out that no one could have predicted that the towers could have been buried in such a manner or that they could rise in such dramatic fashion. Even if Purah and Robbie had been free to investigate, they probably would not have discovered that mechanism for years, if not decades, and the result would have likely remained the same, since only one of the towers had ever been found and largely by accident.
King Rhoam closed his eyes and took several deep breaths. He steepled his hands and held his position for nearly a minute.
"It's something Father does to ensure he doesn't make a decision or say something out of anger," Zelda whispered to Link. "As royalty, we're constantly scrutinized, so presentation matters."
Link nodded and glanced around the War Room. Besides himself, Zelda, King Rhoam, and Chancellor Cole, Captain Auru and Knight-Commander Taggart were also present. There was one more man Link had only seen once or twice and only from a distance: General Roman Vakkus, the man in charge of Hyrule's army.
Finally, King Rhoam spoke. "We still have reports coming in regarding the towers, but it seems that many were placed in highly inaccessible areas. Nayru help us, casualties—if any—are likely minimal. Commander Taggart, your report?"
"Only a few runners have reported back in the short time we've had to respond, but they concur with your assessment, sire," Commander Taggart answered. "We're sending as many people as we can spare to quickly assess the damage the towers have caused. At the very least, Central Hyrule appears fine. For now, our efforts are geared towards calming the populace."
King Rhoam nodded before turning to General Vakkus. "Your report?"
"In a word? Dire," General Vakkus said grimly. "By the grace of the Great Goddesses, major civilian areas appear to have been spared thus far, but at least three towers have erupted in areas where our armed forces are stationed. Reports are coming from my soldiers who are checking towers that are further away, and not within the realms of the Champions, Master Robbie, or Lady Impa's chosen regions. When I receive any further reports, I shall inform you at once."
"What reports have you, then?" Chancellor Cole asked.
"The garrison, Citadel, and training camp were all affected," General Vakkus answered. "Master Robbie sent word that the Akkala Tower erupted from beneath the Citadel. We were blessed that it was through the main courtyard and not the main keep itself. Both he and General Irons will send a detailed report on the damage when they are able. By all current accounts, it appears that the Citadel may be compromised, though I do not yet know to what degree or if it's repairable. In all three locations, there are reports of casualties."
Link clenched his jaw and found his eyes staring down at his lap.
"Severe?" Commander Taggart asked.
"Unknown. Healers from nearby villages and hamlets have volunteered to assist," General Vakkus replied. "Initial news is not promising."
Now it felt like each word was a blow to his gut or a stab to his chest.
"What do you know, then, General?" Chancellor Cole asked.
"Very little. For now, I don't think the towers crippled our military might, but the damage is felt, and we're still assessing how diminished we are," General Vakkus answered. "Only through the blessing of the Great Goddesses did we avoid numerous fatalities. I haven't seen any death reports, but speaking realistically, we will see some eventually. For now, there are injuries amongst our ranks. Whether this affects our combat readiness is something I cannot remark upon as of this moment, sire. Rest assured, we are putting our efforts into that as we speak."
"Knight-Commander? What of your efforts to assist?" King Rhoam asked.
"I've deployed all the knights we have along with their squires—Aryll too, Link," Commander Taggart replied. "We've looked at Central Hyrule Tower and determined that there were no problems there, though it did give a few traders a fright. Besides calming the population, I've sent readiness alerts to our knights to prepare for any monsters that may take advantage of the confusion. All the knights and squires in service are active and deployed. If I hear of anything amiss, I will report it immediately, sire."
King Rhoam noisily exhaled, nearly coming out as a growl, but not quite there. He looked around the room, though his eyes lingered on Zelda the longest. "Is there any good news to share?"
Zelda cleared her throat. "We have learned why the towers were constructed."
King Rhoam immediately turned to her. "These towers were woven into the tapestry. Do you know their function?"
"Purah and Robbie informed us that they served as an early warning system against Calamity Ganon. The ancients must have had confidence in these towers if they took the time to build so many and preserve them. We're still trying to get an accurate count of how many towers have appeared… if only to assess the damage they might have caused."
Link carefully kept his face impassive, even as his nails dug into the flesh of his palms.
"And do they work?" King Rhoam asked.
Zelda shook her head. "I don't know. We're spread too thin as it is to assess the extent of this new development. Further research will take time."
King Rhoam rubbed the bridge of his nose and sighed irritably. "Will someone, anyone, give me one more piece of good news that we can salvage from this debacle?"
Link leaned closer to Zelda and whispered, "The towers, they can only search for Calamity Ganon?"
"What do you mean?" she whispered back.
"Can we have the towers look for something else?"
Zelda shot him an odd look. "Like what?"
"I was thinking about the Yi—"
"Something you wish to add, Link?" King Rhoam asked.
Link sat up and glanced at Zelda one last time. She only shrugged back in response but spoke up on his behalf. "He was suggesting that we expand the functions of the towers. And… the idea has incredible merit. If we were to have any towers in or around the Gerudo Desert sense for Hylians, exclude the Gerudo, and see if there are any large concentrations found…"
"Then we might finally locate the Yiga," Captain Auru finished. "Now that's an idea. Can it be done?"
Zelda shook her head. "I confess, my knowledge of the towers is extremely limited. I am not the one to ask and not the one to take charge of this. I recommend we leave this to Purah and Robbie to figure out and send the appropriate people, though that would diminish work on the Guardians."
King Rhoam looked shocked at Zelda's blunt assessment and her refusal to engage with what was unknown, and certainly fascinating, ancient technology. Link couldn't blame him; just a mere year prior, Zelda would have been the first volunteer and led the charge into unmasking the mystery of the Sheikah Towers, so to see her abscond was a little surprising.
"We shall wait until they return and see what they have to report before making any further decisions, then," King Rhoam said. "Anything else?"
"The shrines have been activated, and according to all our available records, they're meant for Link to enter," Zelda said. "What he might find in there, I do not know, but if it was important enough for the shrines to endure all this time, it might be worth investigating."
"And I suppose you wish to go with him?"
"Well… the information in there might only be for him, or there might be something that I could use as well," Zelda replied uncertainly. "There's no way to know unless we try."
King Rhoam sighed again. "Just when some answers finally come to light, you have to unearth more questions instead."
Both Link and Zelda remained silent.
"Where is the closest shrine to us?" Captain Auru asked.
"I do believe there is one here in Hyrule Castle, but our efforts to find it haven't been successful, likely because it's been inactive," Zelda answered. "That being said, there is one to the southwest of us, near the quarry."
"I can spare a knight or two if we need to secure the site, Your Majesty," Commander Taggart said.
King Rhoam shook his head. "I don't think we need to take that level of precaution so close to home and with Link there. The knights have their duty: protection, assurance, and to maintain order after this event."
"Understood, sire."
Looking around the table—Link almost felt as if the monarch's gaze lingered on him for a fraction longer—King Rhoam asked, "Is there anything else that needs to be said, asked, or remarked upon?"
Everyone at the table shared looks with one another—except Link, whose eyes remained fixed on the tabletop.
"Very well. We shall adjourn for now and meet once again when more information arrives," King Rhoam said. "Dismissed."
Link tensed slightly, expecting King Rhoam to ask him to remain seated, but the king got to his feet, pecked Zelda on the cheek, and left.
A few of the others did spare a momentary glance at Link before departing. Eventually, it was just Link and Zelda in the War Room.
"Link?" Zelda tentatively called out.
Taking a deep breath and resisting the urge to clench his jaw, he got up and gave his charge a brief nod before taking his place just behind her and to her side.
Zelda looked like she wanted to say something, before changing her mind. Sighing regretfully, she bade Link to follow, and they left the War Room together. Midna, ever faithful, trotted next to Link this time. She poked him with her nose incessantly and looked up at him with doleful eyes.
"We shall leave for the Katah Chuki Shrine in a few days, once we get our bearings," Zelda said. Though she kept her voice upbeat, Link could hear the forced effort she was making. "The new Map Rune on the Sheikah Slate provided the name. Likely, that's the name of one of the ancient Sheikah monks that oversaw the construction—and the trial—of that shrine."
When Link didn't reply, she looked over her shoulder, frowned, and stopped. "Link—"
He almost glowered at her… almost. However, he marshalled every last bit of his self-control to remain impassive.
Whatever she wanted to say died when she managed to bite her tongue. Her eyes darted around, tracking the various castle staff around them. She abruptly turned on her heel and resumed walking.
Resisting the urge to scowl, Link quietly followed behind.
~o~O~o~
In the aftermath of the Sheikah Tower Incident, as it was being called, the entirety of Hyrule's governance had tasked itself with calming the populace, repairing the damage, and expressing deep sympathy for those that had been lost.
Link became surly and withdrawn, keeping to himself and replying with short, usually one-word answers. Zelda tried to cheer him up, and while he appreciated the efforts, he felt directly responsible for what had happened. She argued that the reactivation of the towers was a necessity, that they would save lives now; or that no one could have predicted what could have happened; finally, she stated that he'd acted on her orders and that she was to blame.
It was kind of her to try, but it didn't change how he felt—he knew he was responsible.
Sadly, word had already spread about whose hands had activated the towers, and all eyes were back on the 'Hero'.
It hadn't taken long for word to come back to confirm that loss of life had been found, most notably among Hyrule's armies. The full accounting remained pending. There were also reports that some civilians had had the misfortune of being in the vicinity of one or two of the towers' dramatic appearances and were counted among the mounting death toll. Either they had been standing on the site, or the rocks that'd fallen had managed to claim them.
Link had no idea where he had gotten the self-control to avoid snapping at random passersby whenever they spoke about it in hushed tones around him.
Out of mercy for his sanity, he did find a few bright spots. Impa returned, bearing news that Kakariko Village had been spared entirely from the chaos, though that should have been expected. It would have been both short-sighted and foolish of the ancient Sheikah to put one of those towers anywhere near their ancestral lands only for future generations of their tribe to be caught unawares by their ancestors' creations. Reports from the other Champions revealed that their lands were fine, though a couple of Zora were injured and two were stuck atop the Lanayru Tower and required assistance to get down. The Gorons had hardly flinched, and the Rito were observing from a safe distance.
Zelda thoughtfully found business elsewhere in the castle when Revali flew in to report the situation at Hebra to the king. Link was sure his threadbare patience would not be able to handle Revali's abrasive attitude and that he would go straight to fisticuffs without reservation if the pompous asshole opened his beak to make one snide remark.
The final bit of good news came in the form of a letter from Aryll. She and Rusl were riding out and helping those that needed it. She still wasn't carrying any weapons beyond her bow and dagger, but she was able to render assistance in other meaningful ways. She felt like she was making a difference and wanted to continue on this path, like their father and Link.
It almost brought a smile to his face. Almost.
Still, a thunder cloud followed Link wherever he went, and everyone that made eye contact with him—save for those closest to him—received a glare in return.
He should have known that a particularly stubborn princess would not let his poisonous mindset linger.
~o~O~o~
Link was just putting the Master Sword away for the evening when Midna ran into his room. She worriedly nudged his thigh and leaned against him comfortingly, as she had been consistently doing for the last couple of days. It had almost come to a point where she had been reluctant to go to Zelda's room, but had done so obediently, if only to continue doing her duty.
On cue, Zelda's head peered through the doorway. "May I come in?"
"No."
Despite his curt answer, she entered his room and sat on his bed. She looked at him expectantly.
He wanted to be surly and stand his ground, but Midna's teeth pinched on his trousers, and she started tugging at him insistently. Grunting irritably, he tried to shoo her off, but the stubborn wolf was having none of it, and he eventually found himself sitting next to Zelda.
For her part, the princess looked like she was trying hard not to giggle. The moment passed, though, and her countenance became serious once again.
Link stubbornly maintained his silence and was not going to be the one to initiate conversation.
"It wasn't your fault, Link," she said quietly.
"Oh, was there a sword to my throat, then?" he bitterly retorted. "I had every reason to refuse, even to you. That damn Guidance Stone wouldn't have worked without me. I knew right from wrong. I knew a good idea from a bad one, and I still did it anyway."
"What you didn't know was what could happen," she replied sternly. "None of us did. We had no information. None at all. At best, you'd get some vague sense, but no scale, no numbers, and certainly no locations."
"People are dead because of what I did," he said. "The rest is irrelevant details."
She shook her head. "No, the rest determines whether or not you can find it within you to forgive yourself or continue punishing yourself. You didn't willfully mean to harm anyone, and no one that knows you believes that for even a moment."
Link gritted his teeth. "It was my fault."
Zelda sighed. Instead of responding with words, she inched closer, brought her arms around him, and pulled him close. Despite the tumultuous whirlwind of feelings pounding away in his chest, he found himself resting his head on her shoulder. He almost brought his arms up, too, but resisted at the last moment, choosing to keep them limp by his sides instead while she hugged him tighter.
She didn't let go, and he didn't pull away. Time seemed to lose meaning, either stretching out or becoming still. It didn't matter.
He found himself surprised that this was what he wanted. He didn't need words, he didn't need platitudes, and he didn't need anyone's judgment.
When she started stroking the back of his head, he found that all he wanted was a little bit of strength to rise above everything that had happened.
He wanted to thank her, to utter some words of gratitude, but his voice didn't want to cooperate. Instead, he simply relaxed more in her embrace and hoped that she knew how much he appreciated the gesture.
~o~O~o~
Central Hyrule – Katah Chuki Shrine
"Have you ever been here?" Zelda asked.
Link shook his head. "No. I barely even know where any of the shrines are except for the one I told you about."
"Kaam Ya'tak Shrine," she said absently.
She approached the now-active shrine. The bottom half was glowing blue through various seams and decorative whorls, while the Sheikah Eye at the top of the structure—much like the emblem the Sheikah would tattoo upon their foreheads—was shining with a yellow-orange color.
Zelda brought out the Sheikah Slate and tapped it against the console. Nothing happened.
Far from being frustrated, she beckoned Link closer and handed him the slate. "You try."
Link looked reluctant to do so, and she couldn't blame him.
"If you really feel uncomfortable, we don't have to do this," she said softly.
For a moment, it looked like he would take her up on her offer—and while she knew she would be disappointed, she did understand his feelings on the matter—but he took a deep breath and shook his head.
"No, we made the trip here, so we might as well," he muttered. "Just… stand back, please?"
While Zelda knew that he was merely doing his duty—and that he was just that kind of man—she still felt foolishly happy that he cared about her well-being. Gathering Midna, Zelda retreated to a safe distance and hid behind a large rock.
"Ready!" she shouted.
Link waved and brought the Sheikah Slate over to the console. The moment he pressed the device against the smooth surface, the Sheikah Eye grew brighter and the bars that served as a doorway parted, revealing the interior.
Gasping in delight, Zelda sprinted back to the shrine, Midna hot on her heels. She took up a position behind Link and looked around.
"Is that the device you rode?" she asked, pointing excitedly at the disc-like object in the small room.
He nodded. "It is."
"Are we going in?" she asked, her voice almost pleading.
Wearily nodding, Link took her hand and bade Midna to heel before walking into the room. Once they were settled, the pad descended into the depths. Zelda jerked in surprise at the sudden motion and clutched Link's arm tightly as she looked around in wonderment. Midna pressed herself against Link's thigh and let out a displeased growl.
Seeing Link calmly standing still, Zelda stayed away from the edges and decided to marvel over the grandeur of the technology they were riding.
"If we had these in the castle, we would be able to get around so much easier," she said in hushed tones. "Especially the towers."
Link chuckled. "I have to agree with you."
The ride down wasn't long. Link didn't seem concerned, and that served to help relax Zelda. Midna pressed herself against the both of them nervously, but didn't react any further than that.
When they reached the end of the ride, the chamber lit up. Zelda gasped and almost ran off the platform, but Link tightened his grip on her hand and pulled her back.
"This is new to me," he muttered. "The chamber Liena and I were in wasn't nearly this bright. It stayed dimly lit the entire time we were down there."
Zelda surmised that the reason the chamber was now lit was because the shrine was properly activated, but she was sure Link could guess that, too. It was the unknown that prompted caution, and she decided to defer to his judgement.
He cautiously walked into what looked to be an antechamber. The rest of the room was partitioned behind a formidable yet beautifully designed intricate metal fence. There was an open gate that stood out amidst the patterns, designs, and whorls.
"It's so quiet," Zelda whispered. Even as she uttered the words as softly as she could, she still felt like she was disturbing the sanctity of the shrine. "I never imagined a shrine to be like this."
"Liena and I couldn't hear the thunderclaps of the storm at all down here," Link replied. "It wasn't unnerving, though. If anything, it was rather peaceful."
The three of them approached the open gateway, but did not cross the threshold. Peering through, they could see a barred gate on the other side of the room. Curiously, there was a square hole of unknown function right in the middle of the chamber.
Link let go of Zelda's hand and turned to her and Midna. "Stay put. I need to determine if there's any danger here."
Nodding, Zelda placed her hand on Midna's head, causing the wolf to sit on her haunches obediently.
Taking a deep breath, Link drew the Master Sword and readied his Hylian Shield. He cautiously stepped through the gate.
Watching with bated breath, Zelda kept Midna close as they saw him take measured steps deeper into the chamber. Abruptly, though not surprisingly, the gate slammed shut.
Zelda gasped and ran up to the bars, trying to see between them and checking if Link was all right.
She gasped again when something rose from the pit.
Is that… a Guardian?!
Whatever it was, it bore remarkable similarities to the Guardian Stalkers Purah and Robbie had been restoring, only miniaturized. It was barely bigger than Link and only possessed three legs. Furthermore, the tiny Guardian also sported a single limb on its upper body, and it was wielding a small blue-glowing blade.
"Link!" Zelda shouted.
"I'm fine!" he yelled back. He readied himself accordingly.
The Guardian scuttled forward, sword raised aggressively. It swung its weapon with remarkable speed, but Link was set to parry. When an opening presented itself, he retaliated without hesitation.
Zelda gripped the bars, helpless as she watched Link dance away from the Guardian's rigid swings. She gasped as it released tiny beam attacks, only for them to be blocked by the Hylian Shield.
She continued to bear witness—there was little else she could do—as Link calmly fought the little Guardian. He did not appear to be concerned, even as it continued to do things that there was no way for him to know about, such as when it took advantage of its mechanical body to spin around with its blade out. A physically impossible feat for a Hylian, but Link stood his ground and did something with his shield that not only halted the Guardian's spinning charge but knocked it to the floor.
Link leapt into the air, sword tip pointed right at the Guardian's eye, and ran his blade through it.
It comically shuddered before slumping down. The blue glow emanating from its body faded.
Just as abruptly as before, the gate shifted, opening instead of closing. Zelda and Midna quickly ran in. The former quickly checked Link's condition and let out a sigh of relief.
"You appear to be fine," Zelda said.
Link shrugged. "It wasn't hard. A bit unexpected, maybe, but not difficult at all."
She smiled, which became a giggle when Midna roughly nudged Link, prompting him to calm the anxious wolf with several assuring scratches.
"I can see why these shrines are designed to test you," Zelda mused. "I wonder if all of them are like this."
"The other gate is open," he said. "Shall we?"
"We shall," she replied.
Letting him take the lead, she paused only long enough to snap a picture of the tiny Guardian for Robbie to look at when time permitted. She would take the time to examine the remains herself after their cursory investigation of the shrine was completed.
Which didn't take long, because the next room was small in comparison to the arena Link had been forced to fight in. There were stairs that led up to a glowing blue box or a very small chamber—Zelda almost likened it to a prison—and little else. Once again, Zelda couldn't hold back her gasp when she saw the occupant within.
"It's a Sheikah," Link whispered. "This is exactly what I saw at the end of my trial."
"What?" Zelda asked, turning to him with wide eyes.
"The Trial of the Sword," he clarified. "They were all… well, in these boxes."
The Sheikah within was ancient; if her research was accurate, at least 10,000 years old, if not far older. He—or she—was… 'relatively' well preserved, considering the age from when the individual had been entombed. The shape remained passably Hylian, still possessing two arms, two legs, a torso, and a head, with the joints articulated in the right ways and proper proportions. However, the skin had long since dried and darkened to an unhealthy brown color, and the Sheikah was impossibly gaunt; well and truly past emaciation. The hat and robes were little more than tatters but still bore the Sheikah Eye clearly.
Link gestured for Zelda and Midna to stay back while he ascended the stairs. The Sheikah Eye shined brightly on the surface of the blue-glowing walls of the chamber. He hesitantly tapped the emblem and jerked his hand back when it briefly shined brighter for a moment before melting away.
Abruptly, the box's walls broke apart with a small tinkle and vanished.
Link had to shield his eyes before turning back to the ancient Sheikah. "Um… hello?"
"Your triumph over the test of strength subverts a prophecy of ruin," an ancient, raspy voice echoed. It didn't come from the Sheikah, but rather, it was as if the entire room was speaking to them. "To protect Hyrule, a hero rises. In the name of Goddess Hylia, I declare this trial complete. May the Goddess smile upon you."
The walls of the chamber reappeared, but this time, they were completely opaque, preventing either of them from seeing the monk.
Link glanced back at Zelda, who could only helplessly shrug back. Already, events were well beyond her understanding. Deep down, she was sure that no matter how much she combed the archives, she would not find any references to what they had just witnessed. Everything was new ground now.
Taking a breath, Link placed his hand on the glass-like box, but his fingers merely ran up against the smooth surface. It didn't react to his touch at all.
"I guess… that's it?" he murmured.
"It would seem so," Zelda said. As much as she wanted to walk around and document her findings regarding this section of the shrine, a part of her abstained. It felt wholly disrespectful, if not outright sacrilegious, to study this… burial chamber. "We should leave."
Link appeared to be of the same mind, because he withdrew his hand and nodded to her.
Putting Midna on a heel, Zelda followed behind Link as they walked back to the levitating disc that would take them back to Hyrule.
"Do you think we're below Hyrule Field?" she asked, breaking the silence.
"Liena asked, or said, something similar when we rode that contraption down," Link replied. "Personally, I get the feeling that we didn't descend beneath the ground. We were transported."
"To someplace else entirely," she murmured. "Yes, that's what it felt like to me, too."
"How many shrines are there?" he asked.
They stepped onto the disc and let it take them back to Hyrule.
"I don't know," she answered honestly. "We were discovering them before, but now that they've become active, I can only surmise that reports of more shrines will reach us before long. I can only say that we have confirmed the locations of over two dozen that are dotted all over Hyrule."
Link eyed her. "We're not going to all of them, are we?"
Zelda shook her head. "Of course not. Well, at least I won't be going to all of them. However, there may be merit to you going to them, if they're designed to strengthen you. I think it best if you and I were to see a few more, though, if only to determine if the trials will be like this one or if each monk wishes to test you differently."
He rubbed the back of his neck and exhaled sharply. "So, he really wasn't alive."
"No, he wasn't," she said. "The message left behind was likely recorded as his final words. Going by your accounts of the Trial of the Sword, I do not think any of the monks are going to be avid conversationalists."
Once they reached the entrance, they had to adjust to the bright sunlight after having spent time amongst the artificial lights of the enclosed shrine.
"Where now?" Link asked.
"Home, but we need to make plans to go back to the Great Plateau," Zelda answered. "Masako is due back to report sometime this week. She claims it's urgent."
"The Shrine of Resurrection," he muttered. "I still feel uneasy about that."
Zelda shook her head. "It still doesn't change its importance or, goddesses forbid, its possible necessity. Let's go."
Mounting up—Zelda was still riding Aether, while Link used one of the palace-trained horses—they began their quick return to Castle Town.
~o~O~o~
Central Hyrule – Hyrule Castle
While preliminary plans were made to go to the Great Plateau, it wasn't going to be for a few more days. Masako's arrival had been delayed slightly by the appearance of at least four shrines around the Great Plateau, and she had wanted a look at each of them before making the trip to Hyrule Castle.
The meeting was kept small, since it dealt with more technical and esoteric issues and not necessarily state matters. It was taking place in one of the castle's many sitting rooms. Besides Zelda and Link, Tarja had heard about this miraculous ancient technology and inserted herself into the meeting. Purah had also made the trip, if only to inform the king about the status of Hateno in the aftermath of the Sheikah Tower's emergence. At least news on that front was pleasant, since the tower had come out of one of the mountainous areas far from any populated areas. Finally, King Rhoam was present and attentive at what may be another resource to use against Calamity Ganon.
"It appears that the Shrine of Resurrection is capable of healing extraordinarily grievous wounds," Masako said.
"How grievous are we talking about?" Tarja asked.
"If you're asking if the shrine lives up to its name, I cannot answer that, but if Link were to be placed in there at the foot of death's door… in theory, it may be enough to bring him back from the brink," Masako answered.
Startled that he was singled out, Link pointed at himself and asked, "Me?"
"That's the next thing I wanted to report upon," Masako said. She turned back to the Royal Family and Link. "Our initial assessment was correct, and that you and only you can use it, Link. Her Highness's ancestor commissioned my people to make it specifically for the Hero, in the event that he fell in battle."
Purah took up the next part of the explanation. "It's why the Sheikah Slate responded to him and why it acts as a key to the shrines. The only way to access them is through the Sheikah Slate, and the only one that can use the slate is Link. The slate was a tool for your predecessor to supplement his abilities. Security measures were implemented to prevent misuse, and that's why it was buried after the war ended but not dismantled."
Tarja grew irate. "That's preposterous! If the Sheikah created technology that can heal people, why should it be restricted to just one individual?!"
"To prevent our enemies from claiming it for themselves," Purah answered gravely. "We merely saw the chamber, but we're estimating that a significant portion of the Great Plateau had been hollowed out to create and power that technology. It's not a simple mechanism. And it's not a fast one, either. Apparently, the more serious the wounds, the longer it takes to recover from them. They only made one because it was at the princess's request, but in reality, if the Hero was injured to the point where he needed to be placed within, it would be years of recovery."
"Years?" King Rhoam repeated.
"We're conservatively estimating decades, but it could very well be longer. The subject would be in suspended animation… perfectly preserved, if you will, as the shrine repairs the damage done. Robbie believes it to be a last desperate attempt at defiance and for the Hero to continue the fight, long after Ganon destroyed Hyrule if the ancients lost their war," Purah replied darkly. "It's not really all that practical for widespread use."
"In any event, it was likely our ancestors were worried about Ganon using it for itself if it could subvert the security measures," Masako said. "To be able to hide and heal rather than be vanquished."
"While your intentions are good, Tarja, it doesn't change the fact that there are those who wouldn't pervert that for their own ends," Purah added. "It's for Link, and that's that."
Zelda looked a little pale. "I hope it doesn't come down to that."
"I think everyone shares that thought," Link muttered.
Tarja was still frowning, though. "It still feels like a terrible waste. If we had greater access to such a tool, then perhaps Diaz may have survived."
Link tensed up. "What?"
Zelda placed her hand atop his. "Sir Braxton didn't make it."
"Post-operation infections," Tarja bitterly said. "We did everything we could, but he was already too weak from his wounds."
Link hadn't known the man all that well, having only met Diaz once, but he respectfully inclined his head and fell silent.
"What of the other shrines?" Zelda asked, quick to change the subject.
"We have no idea," Masako answered bluntly. She glanced at Link. "I imagine that will be up to Link to find out for us."
"Although, your report on the ancient Sheikah monks entombed within was utterly fascinating," Purah said reverently. "To be so steadfast in their devotion to the Goddess Hylia… I'm actually quite envious."
"Truly, as am I," Masako whispered.
When all eyes turned to Zelda, she blinked twice before blushing furiously. "O-oh. Um… I-I think the work you're doing is splendid. Both of you."
King Rhoam turned to Zelda. "I imagine you wish to go back to the Great Plateau, then."
"Not immediately," Zelda replied. "It's becoming clear that the shrines are more of an academic curiosity and not a key to helping me understand the Great Deku Tree's lessons."
"What are you thinking?" King Rhoam asked.
"The key still lies within Din," she answered. "I just have to understand her more. Not as a goddess, but as a representation of something more."
King Rhoam frowned. "I'm afraid this is all becoming far too abstract for me."
"What frustrates me most is that when I figure it out, the answer will probably be simpler than we thought," Zelda said. She turned to Masako. "Inform your people at the site that Link and I will return to the Great Plateau soon. While not a pleasant thought, we should find out how to activate the Shrine of Resurrection, if only to err on the side of caution."
Masako stood up and bowed deeply. "At once, Your Highness. When shall we expect you?"
Zelda tapped her lip before smiling brightly and turning to Link. "Cremia is getting married soon, isn't she?"
Link smiled back and nodded. "She is. I'll get an exact date."
"Excellent. We'll divert to Mabe Village before going to the Great Plateau. We will send word when the date is confirmed."
"As you wish, Your Highness," Masako said. Bowing once more, both to Zelda and then King Rhoam, she was dismissed and left.
Purah stood up and smoothed out her lab coat. "I should get back to the labs and continue our restoration work, then. Robbie won't be returning anytime soon until the Citadel is sorted out."
"Thank you for your help, Purah," Zelda said.
Purah nodded before marching up to Link and pinching his chin so that he would be forced to look at her. "Listen to me, no one would have known. No one. And the idea that this could have been avoided is, to put it frankly, absurd. None of this is your fault. This isn't a platitude. It's a statement of fact. Understood?"
"Yeah," Link muttered half-heartedly.
Sighing, she let him go and crossed her arms standoffishly. "Find it in you to forgive yourself, Link. For all our sakes. You need to keep that instinct of yours razor-sharp."
Link nodded and didn't offer any further words.
Purah curtsied to the king and bowed to Zelda. "By your leave, then."
"Have a safe journey," Zelda said before shooting a concerned glance at Link.
"We thank you for your expertise, as always, Purah," King Rhoam added.
Whatever Zelda wanted to say, she abstained and instead kissed her father on the cheek and promptly left the room, forcing Link to hastily get up, bow to the king, and follow.
"We're going to speak to Rauru," Zelda said when Link caught up to her. "I'm hoping he might have some insights to share."
"A good idea," Link murmured. "One wonders how he'll view this compared to the Great Deku Tree."
"I could do with more information," she replied. Her tone was tinged with just a hint of frustration.
A few inquiries to some passing servants revealed that Rauru had snuck off to the kitchens for a late-afternoon snack. Zelda teasingly suggested that they join him for an impromptu tea break.
They found him, thoroughly enjoying a rather generous helping of chocolate cake alongside his brother, Captain Auru. Their wizened faces looking rather embarrassed—much like how he and Aryll would look when pilfering extra cookies when they had been children—nearly caused Link to laugh.
Rauru tried to reclaim his dignity and priestly persona when Zelda asked him to sit with her to discuss her findings from the Korok Forest. She requested the staff to bring snacks and drinks for them as they took their meeting to another sitting room. Captain Auru discreetly made his escape.
"Please enjoy, Rauru," Zelda said, smiling widely.
In the presence of Zelda's charm, Rauru relaxed as a servant poured cups of tea and divvied out cake—fruit, at Zelda's request—onto two plates. Link chose to abstain and remained on guard. As relaxed as he had been in Zelda's presence in the previous few months, it didn't change the fact that he had a duty to perform.
After taking a sip of tea, Zelda said, "I would like to speak to you regarding divine matters."
"Of course, Your Highness," Rauru replied kindly. "As always, I am at your disposal."
"Tell me, what do you think of the Great Goddess Din?" Zelda asked.
"Ah, Din. The most misunderstood of the Great Goddesses," Rauru murmured thoughtfully. "When we speak of Din, we speak of power, yes?"
"Often so."
"Ah, but what is power?" Rauru rhetorically asked. "A hotly debated topic if there ever was one. For many of the masses, power is often attributed to the accumulation of wealth or the ability to take life. For the upper echelons of society, it is often more about the ability to influence events around us."
Zelda nodded and primly took a bite of her cake.
"For instance, when asking the common Hylian if the Royal Family is powerful, they will say yes," Rauru said. "But powerful in what way? Here, answers vary greatly, depending on the individual. Some will say through martial strength, such as the armies and knights under your command, as well as the weapons in your possession. Others will say through material wealth, that you are able to buy any necessity to maintain status. Some will even speak of influence, and how the noble courts all answer to your beck and call, and thus offer their resources as well."
"I agree."
"Thus, we return to our original question: what is power? Do we now define it as the judgement over life and death? The exertion of your will over others? Or is it the respect you command from others?" Rauru paused to sip some tea before continuing. "As a man of faith, I argue that power is none of those things. To understand power, especially through the eyes of the Great Goddesses, we must rise above such mortal concerns."
Zelda nodded and paid rapt attention.
"Scripture tells us that Din used her strength to shape the world, to forge it, and to create the lands that would sustain life. Such was her dominion," Rauru said. "What can you draw from this?"
"Creation," Zelda answered promptly. "A far more difficult endeavor than destruction."
"And proof of the goddesses' power," he added. "The power of life is something we don't often speak of, for it seems so… insignificant in comparison to other seemingly grander displays of what we perceive to be 'power'."
Zelda took a bite of fruitcake and munched away thoughtfully. "Hmm… would it be correct to say that mortals see power as a way to dominate rather than create?"
"It would, yes," Rauru said. "In a way, we mortals also treat power much like currency. We seek to gain more of it, wield it, spend it—"
"Making it susceptible to base desires like greed," Zelda finished.
"Quite apt, Your Highness."
Link's brow furrowed as a thought occurred to him, hearing their conversation. He had only heard the theological aspects of power from Zelda's point of view, but the Trial of the Sword had prevented him from hearing the Great Deku Tree's words.
Rauru caught his expression and gently smiled. "Would you like to share your thoughts on this discussion, Link?"
Startled that he was called upon, Link shrugged. "It's just… when you said mortals wield power, it made me think if that's one of the problems we've been having. If Zelda was trying to 'wield' her Sealing Powers like how I would draw the Master Sword."
That caused the old priest to smile wider. "Ah, an astute observation, Link. The Great Goddesses did not shape Hyrule through force, but through will and harmony with creation itself. Power is not something to be seized, but something to allow."
"You think my powers are the same, then?" Zelda asked intently.
"That is likely a question only you can answer," Rauru replied.
She wearily nodded and took a bite of cake to cheer herself up.
"I haven't had the chance to ask since your return, but may I inquire about your meeting with the Great Deku Tree?" he asked, leaning forward. "Is this the reason for the sudden interest in Din?"
"I'm told that I require a balance between the three aspects of the Great Goddesses if I am to have any hope of unlocking my Sealing Powers," Zelda answered. "Apparently, power is what I lack. Passion, fire, and a zest for life, as the Great Deku Tree put it."
"Fascinating," Rauru murmured.
Taking a sip of tea, Zelda leaned back against her cushion and pondered his words. "Hmm… you said 'grander'. When seeking power, I shouldn't look for something big, but rather, something small?"
"Well, for mere mortals, small displays of power in the image of Din are achievements unto themselves," he said. "With regards to you, it might be a bit different. Or perhaps that's just me looking at power as a mortal. What you seek could very well be mundane, yet profound only to you."
Zelda smiled. "The Great Deku Tree would likely agree with you."
Rauru smiled back widely. "Ah, it is good to be vindicated. To hear that a spirit deity has confirmed the veracity of our scriptures and beliefs has rewarded my faith."
Finishing her cake and tea, Zelda stood up. "Thank you, Rauru. You've given me something further to reflect upon."
Rauru stood up as well and bowed to her. "As always, I remain at your service, Your Highness."
After parting ways with the head priest, Link dutifully followed Zelda as she meandered through the various halls of the castle, lost in thought.
Link privately admired her poise. Despite having a direction to go, her powers remained out of reach for the time being, but instead of harboring resentment, she had grown to be more reflective and deliberate.
Abruptly, Zelda stopped. "Link, may I ask you something?"
"Anything."
She turned to face him. "Do you know the Sheikah beliefs?"
Link tilted his head. "Well, some… I'm certainly no expert, though. You would be better off asking Impa."
"And I shall, when she returns from her investigation," Zelda replied. "I just want to scratch this particular curiosity for the time being."
"Well, I spent three years with the Sheikah, and I did learn a lot about their customs, but… I wouldn't call myself a Sheikah by any stretch of the imagination," Link said.
Zelda smiled, which served to both offset his embarrassment and increase it all at once. "Do you remember when Impaz was last here? She mentioned that at fifteen, I would find power; at sixteen, courage; and at seventeen, wisdom."
"Oh, yeah, I know about that one," Link replied.
"Wisdom, I can understand. After all, with age, wisdom can grow," Zelda murmured. "I even understand courage… a little bit."
"I don't know if this is going to help with your powers, but I can answer this," Link said. "It's not about age, but time. Some people can grow wiser faster than others, but it always takes time, so it's not a reflection of age. I think seventeen was just an arbitrary number picked, in my humble opinion."
"Oh, I see."
"Courage is something we grow into as we adjust to the world, but power is… well…" Link trailed off and planted his fist beneath his chin. "Traditionally, at fourteen, we begin to embrace life to the fullest, since we are past childhood, but years from adulthood and its responsibilities."
Now it was Zelda's turn to tilt her head thoughtfully. "Hmm… a zest for life?"
"An accurate statement," Link said. "I mean, we would have the physicality to… well… um… do things. Almost anything. Running through fields, climbing trees, horseback riding, lots of stuff."
"Just as the Great Deku Tree said," Zelda muttered, more to herself than to Link.
"What are you going to do now?"
Groaning, she leaned against a stone wall and shook her head. "I don't know. I've been too guarded with my emotions. Now I'm supposed to get in touch with that part of me, and I still have no idea how to do it."
"Confronting our shortcomings is never an easy thing," he replied. "We always struggle with it."
"Except Hyrule's future is dictated by my success or failure," Zelda mumbled. "It's not as if we'll get a second chance, is there?"
Link winced. "No, probably not."
"Link, I would like to arrange a trip to Kakariko Village," Zelda said. "Naturally, Impa will be coming with us. I think hearing Impaz's take on Din and power may help me."
"I'm sure she'll be glad to host you," Link replied.
"Us, Link," Zelda chided. "It hasn't escaped my notice that Impaz holds you in high esteem. And then there's Impa to consider as well."
"Us."
Zelda continued towards her tower. "So, that means our immediate plans will be having you attend Cremia's wedding, before going to the Great Plateau and the various shrines there, and finally, visiting Kakariko."
Link nodded in time to the upcoming destinations and mentally catalogued the supplies and luggage they would need to pack. "How long do you anticipate staying in Kakariko?"
"A few days. No longer than a week, I surmise," she answered. "We're going there for information, and I'd rather not subject Impaz to traveling here simply to answer questions."
Knowing that Impaz was getting on in years, Link nodded again. "I like to think she'd want to show off Kakariko Village to you at the very least."
Zelda stopped and lowered her head. "Hmm… it occurs to me that I've never visited Kakariko before. Even though the Sheikah are the staunchest allies we have."
"I doubt your father has, either, or had the ability to visit any of the other smaller hamlets," Link pointed out. "Hosting royalty is… it's going to be complex. From what I've learnt so far, you always need a reason to go somewhere. You really can't just… go. Not on a whim, in any case. No one holds it against you, and certainly not the Sheikah."
Zelda looked back up at him and smiled. "I suppose you're right, but at least now we have a valid reason."
"Just don't be surprised that they'll plan a festival for you," he said. "When I finished my training there, I got a rather lively going-away party."
"I see. I'll be sure to pack accordingly, then," she murmured. "Still, we have some time, and I would hate to drop by unannounced. Would you please draft a letter asking for a firm date on the wedding? That way, I can coordinate with Captain Auru and the Royal Guard on our future travel plans."
Link nodded. "Can do, will do."
~o~O~o~
Cremia wrote back, stating that their new home, barn, and fences along with all the furnishings—it was really all under the Farons' name, since they were financing everything, but no one bothered to point out that detail—were all to be completed by the end of the month, making the wedding happen on the first week of Farore's Season. With the date noted, plans were made for Zelda to travel to all three locations, and appropriate security measures were drafted accordingly.
When Impa returned, she was at first dismayed to hear that there had been loss of life when the towers had risen from the ground. She was pleased to report that Kakariko Village and West Necluda had been spared, since the tower had come out of the Squabble River. However, her despair turned to joy when Zelda told her of their intention to visit Kakariko to seek out Impaz's wisdom.
"Oh, Gram will be thrilled to have you there! Everyone will be!" Impa gushed. "I'll send a message right away!"
Neither Link nor Zelda could say anything before Impa dashed off, almost seeming to disappear right before their very eyes… if it weren't for the fact that she nearly toppled over a pair of maids that were dusting the floors at the other end of the hall.
And she's supposed to be a Sheikah master?
The thought caused Link to chuckle, which in turn made Zelda giggle.
After Impa turned the corner, Zelda turned to Link and smiled widely. "Well, plans made. Excited to go home?"
"I am," Link answered. "I also just realized that I should probably write home again and ask what the dress code will be. It's an important event, sure, but Cremia has always been practical."
"Oh, that is a salient question," Zelda said. "I wouldn't want to overdress for the occasion. It's meant to be her day, after all."
"I'll draft another letter tonight," he replied. He gave Zelda a sheepish look. "She'd never forgive me if I ruined her special day."
"And she shouldn't," Zelda 'primly' said before laughing. However, her countenance turned serious. "Although, I wonder if my presence would be appropriate. Impa has returned, so she can take over your duties while you're at Mabe Village."
Link half-shrugged. "I'll ask, but I'm sure it'll be fine. If anything, it'll probably make it more memorable."
"Who else will be attending?" she asked.
"Most of the village, I suspect," he answered thoughtfully. "We all know each other, so events like this tend to get around. And no one would refuse a reason to let loose and have a good time. A wedding is simply an excuse."
Again, Zelda looked unsure. "Would it really be all right for me to be there?"
"At the very least, I know that most of the villagers don't know what you look like," Link said. "Don't you remember, 'Kara'?"
"Oh, that's a good point," she replied, grinning. "Attending a wedding incognito. Exciting."
"You know, if you want to play it to the hilt, we could always get you a white-haired wig and say you're a relative of Impa's," he teased. "Not even a royal official anymore. Just a Sheikah villager."
Giggling, Zelda continued toward her business for the day—some kind of political matters that always bored Link to his core. It was always a reminder that Zelda was still the princess of the realm and that her responsibilities did not solely revolve around Calamity Ganon. "All right, all right. How about you write your letter first and find out before we let our imaginations get away from us, hmm?"
The day progressed as normal, though one semi-recent benefit since their return from the Korok Forest was that Zelda no longer prayed to the goddesses. However, her newfound free time was spent in her research tower, though she did spend an hour or more sitting and almost staring into space. Link didn't know if she was either contemplating or meditating, but she didn't write in her journals or read any tomes or scrolls as she normally did.
She also took on a botany project. A carefully placed pot of soil was sitting on a shelf near a window where the sun would shine on it without heating it. When Link asked what it was, she told him that it was a bulb of Silent Princess that she had been gifted from the Korok chief with compliments of the Great Deku Tree. She wanted to see if she could be the first to grow it domestically.
As such, when Zelda's tasks were finished for the day, she quickly retreated to her tower to continue fussing.
Link watched, bemused, as she took soil samples to determine acidity or alkalinity, tested the water she had on hand to make sure it contained the right amount of minerals before measuring out precise amounts that would be 'suitable' for the exact quantity of soil in the pot, and determined the full composition of the fertilizer she intended to use before carefully doling out very calculated quantities.
"I can feel you laughing at me," Zelda announced while she wrote down her latest efforts in a book.
Though her back was to him, he grinned all the same. "I was just thinking… the way you're going about this… isn't what you're doing—or rather, how you're caring for it—exactly how a Child of Nayru would do it?"
Her hand stilled, and she looked up at him owlishly before turning back to the pot. She stared at it intensely for almost a minute before firmly putting her pen down.
"You're right," she said. "Old habits, but I need to apply myself differently in everything I do."
Closing the book and putting it away on a random bookcase, she took a deep breath, grabbed a goblet of water, and struggled to pour the contents into the pot without testing or measuring it.
Now Link was laughing.
"Oh, be quiet," Zelda mumbled, clearly uncomfortable with her cavalier means of attempting to grow an endangered species of flora. "Ugh, what am I doing? Trying to grow something that experts haven't been able to successfully accomplish for decades on a whim."
"You're stepping out of your comfort zone," he said bracingly. "Trying new things. Experience new or even doing old things with different mindsets. Isn't that what you've been chasing?"
Putting the goblet down and studying the pot with a complicated expression, she took a deep breath and nodded. "Yes, you're right, of course. I suppose I shall… I shall have to try my best, and hopefully, my efforts will be rewarded."
"Hmm. Master Impaz taught me something different," Link said.
"What was it?" Zelda asked.
"I think I'll let her teach you," he replied impishly. "Wouldn't want to deprive her of some fun."
Zelda crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes. "I believe I'm beginning to see why Impaz likes you so much."
Link merely smiled and shrugged back in response, though his eyes continued to shine with mirth.
~o~O~o~
Zelda's heart fluttered a bit, seeing Link smile at her like that. At the very least, she was glad he was moving past recent events. Instead of studying or reading in the library, she took Link to a parlor room for the late afternoon and spoke about nonsensical things. Not only did it serve to take his mind off recent events, but she got to learn a few anecdotes about his time among the Sheikah as well.
"So Impaz was the one to teach you how to dance," Zelda said. "I had thought for sure it had been Liena."
"Kind of. She was my partner," he replied. He scratched the back of his head. "My earliest attempts were… not very good."
Intrigued, Zelda leaned closer. "How so?"
"Um… I'll put it this way: boots were a must. She needed the proper protection," he mumbled. "Master Impaz punished mistakes by making me run laps. And I ran a lot."
Zelda giggled. "Well, I think it served you well. You were very good when we danced."
She knew she was blushing, but she still managed to smile at him. He cleared his throat and studied the tabletop intently.
When Impa strolled in—Zelda didn't know if that was fortuitous or terrible timing—they welcomed the company. Impa announced that her gram was as delighted as could be to host both Zelda and Link at Kakariko Village and was eagerly awaiting their arrival.
"I wish I could have seen the look on her face when she read my letter," Impa said. "I know you don't want us to make a fuss, but I'm sure it's still going to be a big deal."
"Of course," Zelda replied amiably.
They spoke about their plans throughout the late afternoon and until dinner. It was only the three of them seated together at their own dining room table. King Rhoam was preoccupied with state matters, mainly pertaining to the towers, the growing death toll among Hyrule's armies, and the reports of civilian losses. Steering those topics away from Link, Zelda asked Impa if she would be amenable to attending a wedding. The Sheikah girl was thrilled to be 'invited', but Link wanted permission first.
"It sounds lovely," Impa said. "I mean, with the bride's permission, of course."
"I'm sure she will be," Link assured. "And it'll be on the way. Plus, you can help as extra security."
Impa grinned. "It would be nice. I'm used to smaller, intimate stuff. No offense, Princess, but the big grandiose celebrations here in the castle are always so stuffy."
"None taken, Impa," Zelda said. "I can't say I've enjoyed them, either, merely tolerated them."
"Well, hopefully, you'll appreciate some of our celebrations," Impa replied. She took on a sheepish expression. "I don't think even Gram could sway the others not to do something for your arrival. It's a big deal for us that you're coming to visit."
"I'm sure whatever you have planned, it will be splendid," Zelda assured.
Impa perked up and turned to Link. "Oh, I also heard that you came up with the idea to finally track down the Yiga."
"Oh, yeah," Link said. "But only if we can spare anyone to try."
"Purah is keen to do it," Impa replied. "She just wants to wrap up the next few Guardians before heading out. Likely, she'll meet us at the Great Plateau, though how she intends to get to the top of the tower there is something I'm looking forward to seeing."
"Oh, the regular means to get up there was gone," Zelda said, recalling their efforts to find a way off.
Impa's grin was both humorous and evil. "I know."
Zelda resisted the urge to roll her eyes and instead asked, "Impa, what do you know about the Goddess Din?"
Caught a bit off guard by the topic change, Impa chewed slowly as she tried to rally her thoughts. "She's a complex one. The Sheikah often say she is 'deceptively fierce'."
"What does that mean?"
"Well, if we equate Din to fire, then it becomes rather self-explanatory," Impa answered. "Without fire, much of what we make isn't possible, but without control, fire has the potential to rage out and destroy. A campfire is often lovely to look at and be around, and it allows us to cook our meals. In contrast, a forest fire is something we run from knowing that it will consume and destroy everything in its path. See the dichotomy?"
Zelda—and Link—nodded.
"To create Hyrule was obviously not an easy task, even for the Great Goddesses," Impa said. "Din was the one that paved the way for her sisters to accomplish their tasks, but to do so meant that she had to shape the world. Sometimes… sometimes that means breaking something to make something. Does that make sense?"
"It does, actually," Zelda replied, frowning. "A part of me wonders if that's something I'm missing."
"Your audience with the Great Deku Tree?" Impa asked.
Zelda nodded before a shiver of realization ran down her spine, and she glanced at Link. "Oh, that's what you had to do during the last trial, wasn't it?"
"Yeah," he said, frowning. "At some point, it's not really enough to have power; you have to use it, too. How you use it is probably the most important thing. I mean, assuming you do have the Sealing Power already."
Sighing, Zelda poked at her dinner for a bit. "This really is complex."
"It is explaining why you're having trouble, though, isn't it?" Impa probed tactfully.
"I suppose," Zelda replied irritably. "Nothing to do but to keep trying. I feel so close, though!"
"I'm hoping Gram will be able to help," Impa said.
Zelda sat straighter and smiled. "At the very least, it might be good for me to clear my head for a spell."
"We'll do our best to accomplish that," Impa replied happily.
~o~O~o~
After Impa did her usual check of Zelda's quarters, she bade both knight and princess good night and retreated to her own room. Midna placed one of her massive paws on Link's boot and prodded him.
Zelda knelt and started stroking the wolf behind the ears. Ever since Link's departure from his usual aloof or disciplined attitude, Midna had grown antsy in the days following. However, the wolf had remained loyal to her duty and stayed with Zelda in her room.
"I've been thinking, how about letting Midna sleep with you for a bit?" Zelda asked, hoping her voice sounded off-handed.
"She worries too much," Link muttered. "I'm fine."
"She cares about you," Zelda replied softly. The wolf let out a mournful howl. "I think she knows exactly how you feel."
"Well, what about you?" Link asked.
"You're mere meters away from my room," she retorted. "I trust you'll keep me safe. Both of you. It's nice to have Midna with me, but I won't make it a necessity. Please, Link? For Midna's peace of mind, at least?"
Link sighed and looked down at the stubborn wolf. She looked back with doleful eyes, cuteness and pleading both turned up to the maximum. Zelda was self-aware enough to know that if Midna ever looked at her that way, the princess would spoil the lupine rotten.
"Fine," Link grumbled, finally capitulating. He pointed into his room. "Let's go, Midna."
The wolf growled happily and shook herself briefly before immediately bounding for the bed and leaping atop it. She stretched out luxuriously and laid flat on her back.
"I need a bigger bed," Link complained.
Zelda laughed and brazenly walked in to begin stroking Midna's belly. The wolf let out happy pants in gratitude while her tail wagged vigorously.
She didn't even hear him following; once Zelda finished basking their lupine companion with attention, she intended to turn and leave, but Link was standing right there behind her. His arm was outstretched, obviously intending to give the wolf some love, but instead, his palm caressed the side of Zelda's chest, just below her left breast. Reflexively, her hands rested on his chest and remained there.
They both froze, staring at each other. His right hand remained where it was, while her hands almost stroked the taut muscles beneath his tunic.
Her heart started fluttering, almost to the point where she should have felt light-headed, but a strange kind of energy flooded her senses, galvanizing her to remain conscious.
Something impulsive seized Zelda. It almost felt like she was possessed; she wasn't in control, and in equal parts frightened and exhilarated, she was willing to surrender to this unknown entity.
Her hands moved to cup Link's face, drew him close, and before he could utter a question, she sealed her lips against his.
The sensations the act evoked felt electric, as if something had charged her; she felt invigorated and was made whole after having lived her life drained. It was like nothing she had ever felt, and she desired more. She could feel his hands on her shoulders. He gripped her, held her in place, and even tilted his head so they could find that perfect angle… chase after that perfect feeling.
It was an experience unlike any other, and it felt like an impossible weight had been removed; she felt like she was floating, and the sensations drew out a sigh before her lips molded against Link's again. Such heady feelings… the power she felt…
The dream shattered.
Abruptly, Zelda pushed Link back. He looked confused… and worst of all, he looked hurt.
She took a shaky step back. When her legs thumped against the bed, she took a step to the side; it was the wrong way, though, and she ended up closer to a wall. She could still taste him on her lips and resisted the urge to lick them. "I… I-I didn't… we-we can't. I'm the princess. I-I-I can't just force myself on you!"
Link's eyes hardened, and Zelda felt her chest tighten in response. His determined gaze should've frightened her, she should have run, but she felt another thrill run down her spine. She took another step back until her back bumped against the stone wall.
Like a predator, he stalked forward and placed his palms against the wall on either side of her. She was trapped, but she didn't feel helpless. Her hands came up and rested against the blue tunic she had made for him once again. Far from pushing him away like she had done before or merely resting like she had previously done, she fisted the fabric, holding him in place. His face came close, so very close. Her head tilted to meet him.
He didn't kiss her. He brushed past the side of her head so that her wide eyes could still look over his shoulder, yet she could barely process what she was seeing. They were cheek-to-cheek now, and he was close enough that she could smell his earthy scent.
Her eyes went half-lidded as she took one breath deep in, and she wanted to drown her senses when his warm breath caressed her ear, almost causing her to arch into him.
"Do you feel like you have power over me now, Zelda?" he whispered.
Link had stripped away her title, broken down the barriers, and thrown away her feeble excuses. He wasn't intimidated by her station, and why would he be?
Still trapped, yet not a captive, between his muscular arms and broad chest, this time he pulled her in for another mind-numbing kiss. One hand cupped her face, searing her with his touch, while the other wrapped around her waist, bringing their bodies into full contact and lighting a flame within her that left her knees feeling weak. Letting out another involuntary moan, one hand remained clutching his tunic while the other reached up to clasp the back of his head. The moment felt like an eternity, yet not long enough for her. She desperately wanted to follow it to wherever it led…
Sadly, it all ended when Midna stood up, and by taking advantage of the added height from the bed, she joined them by licking both of their faces at once. Jerking away, they quickly separated from one another. Midna tilted her head, looking at them innocently.
"I… um…" Zelda felt breathless, yet more alive than she had ever felt in her entire life. The sensations, so many that she couldn't describe, were running rampant throughout—not just her mind, but everywhere. She needed to process this! "I… that is, we should go to bed… separately, I mean!"
For the sake of her sanity, Link looked as bewildered as her. "That's… that's a good idea."
"Yes, um… well, I, uh…" Her throat had become exceptionally dry.
"Goodnight," he managed to croak out.
"Goodnight," she uttered breathlessly. Still dazed, she used the wall to support herself and hopefully walked—not staggered—out of her knight-protector's private quarters. Midna, ever loyal, decided to stay by her side again rather than staying in Link's quarters as had been intended. However, instead of looking concerned, the wolf almost had an impish look in her expression.
Once she was ensconced in the safety of her room, Zelda sagged onto the top of her bed and limply lay there. Normally, she would have called for her handmaidens to assist her out of her gown, but she felt too electrified to deal with something so mundane at the moment.
No, her thoughts were firmly occupied with what had happened mere moments earlier and scant meters away. She almost wanted to go back and recapture it all for a third time… and a fourth… and however many times it would take to satiate the desires hungering within her.
Groaning, she covered her eyes with her left arm and tried to quell the raging storm within her. When Midna started licking her right hand, she half-heartedly tried to shoo the wolf away.
However, Midna's attention grew insistent. Before, the licks had been tentative, but now she was pushing her nose against Zelda's hand, licking with the entirety of her tongue, and making urgent sounds. There were even teeth brushing lightly against Zelda's flesh now.
"Midna, what is—?" Zelda's question died as she stared at her wolf-slobbered right hand.
The image of the Triforce was shining brightly on the back of her hand.
Zelda let out a shrill scream. Jumping to her feet, she stared at the holy symbol that had appeared. She rubbed at it, she studied it from various angles, she—
—nearly jumped out of her skin for the second time when Link started to pound on her door. "Zelda?! Are you okay?! I ask that you answer me at once!"
Remembering the security protocol, she had moments to reply before he would slowly open and then kick her door. She shouted, "Yes! I'm fine! Quick, get in, Link! You need to see this!"
The door opened slowly. Too excited, exasperated, and impatient, she strode to the door, pulled it open to his surprise, and grasped his hand—the one not holding the Master Sword. Unceremoniously pulling him into her room, she held up her right hand for him to see.
"Look!" she cried out.
He did. He really did. He stared at the glowing Triforce on her hand for more than a minute before he tentatively reached out to touch it. He gave her a questioning look, and she nodded back happily.
Link's touch was gentle, almost reverent. Again, Zelda's heartbeat grew faster in response, and she had to swallow the lump that had formed in her throat.
"Holy Din, Nayru, and Farore," he whispered. He looked back up at her, his expression a mixture of shock, joy, and pride. "How…?"
"I don't know!" she replied giddily. "We must tell my father! Let's go!"
Taking his hand again, she lifted the hem of her gown and started walking, almost jogging, down the hall. Link was able to keep up easily but couldn't sheath the Master Sword… since he wasn't wearing his scabbard. Midna was following behind them excitedly.
Before going to her father's personal chambers, they stopped at Impa's quarters, where Zelda impatiently pounded on the door and yelled at Impa to hurry up.
The door opened quickly, and Impa looked around in concern. That melted away to joy when Zelda showed the first definitive proof of her Sealing Powers. The girls hugged, danced, and cried together, while Link and Midna looked on bemusedly.
Their frantic pace resumed until they reached her father's chambers. Zelda only briefly acknowledged the Royal Guardsmen standing vigilantly and quickly knocked on the door. She took private satisfaction when the guardsmen's eyes bulged upon seeing the sacred emblem.
"Who is it?" her father called out.
"It's me!" Zelda replied, feeling giddy.
"Enter!"
Zelda pushed the door open and stood proudly before him. She proudly held up the back of her right hand for him to see.
King Rhoam's mouth dropped open briefly before he closed it. His expression was the most complicated of all; pride, despair, happiness, resignation… all of these flitted in and out of his face.
Zelda dropped her arm and looked up at him worriedly. "Father…?"
He cleared his throat and stood straight. "How did this happen?"
"Oh, I—" Zelda faltered, and she glanced at Link. His stoic mask was firmly back in place, even as he and Impa were kneeling before their king—along with Midna. "I-I'm not sure…"
Abruptly, the emblem winked out of existence.
Now it was Zelda's turn to gape. She turned her hand over, trying to see what had happened. Her father looked closely, a frown growing.
"No, but… why?" Zelda uttered disbelievingly. She'd had it… or had something, and then it had been cruelly taken away. She desperately turned to Impa and Link. The former was at a loss, but the latter's head was raised—a breach of protocol—and he was staring intently at her.
Zelda furiously tried to recollect what she had been doing, or feeling, during all the events that had led up to the Triforce appearing and married it to the lessons she'd learned from the Great Deku Tree, Rauru, and everyone else she had spoken to. Almost instantly, the answer came to her, and she sucked in a breath.
I'm closing my heart. And I'm succumbing to cowardice…
Swallowing back her momentary lapse in judgement, she took a deep breath and looked back up at her father.
"No, that was a lie. Father… I…" Zelda paused and took another deep breath. Nervousness, coupled with shyness, caused her cheeks to color brightly. "Link and I… we… we were… um… we kissed."
"You… you what?" her father asked calmly… too calmly. He cast a sharp look at Link, but Link's eyes remained on hers, silently giving her his strength and courage.
She was starting to feel jealous at how unflappable he looked.
"We kissed," Zelda repeated firmly. "And… I don't know, it felt like things came into focus for me, while other things got really confusing. I can't put it to words, but we kissed, then I retired to my room, and Midna saw my hand and poked it with her nose until I saw… well… the Triforce."
King Rhoam's eyes glanced sharply at Link once more, but Link didn't even flinch. He did, however, lower his head to maintain proper respect. In contrast, Impa's head was now up, and her mouth was wide open while her red eyes were shifting between Zelda and Link with intense scrutiny and interest.
"And… that was all?" King Rhoam asked. His eyes continued to burn a hole into the top of Link's head.
"That's all," Zelda replied.
"Leave us," King Rhoam ordered.
Link, Impa, and Midna stood, bowed—Zelda wondered if Link had trained Midna to do that—and turned to leave. Link's eyes lingered on Zelda for just a bit longer before he followed Impa and Midna out and closed the door.
Zelda exhaled and mentally prepared herself for what was, no doubt, going to be a very uncomfortable conversation. Looking back down at her right hand, the Triforce had reappeared, but it was glowing faintly as if it were a shadow of what it had been before she'd confessed.
"Please don't tell me the requirements are going to be that high," she mumbled.
She distantly remembered having a conversation with Link about that… how it should be difficult to unlock her Sealing Powers, since they were of divine origin.
King Rhoam looked over and saw it, too, before frowning deeper. He rubbed his face and let out a rather despondent sigh.
That was a reaction she had not been expecting at all when she had come in… for revealing the first sign of her Sealing Power and her intimate moment with her knight-protector. She had been hoping for elation at the former and bracing herself for furious disapproval of the latter.
"Father, are you all right?" Zelda asked, concerned.
He chuckled mirthlessly and sagged down on the couch. "It's a sign of the end times, Zelda. The war that I've been dreading for years. The war that you will have to fight, and there isn't anything more I can do to help. Even with all that I've tried to do, it still doesn't feel like it's enough; it still feels like you're in danger. I had hoped that when your powers awakened, I would feel relief, but the dread that sits in my chest just continues to grow ever more greater."
She sat next to him and took his hand. "There's nothing more you can do."
"I wish I could convince myself of that, I truly do," he whispered. "I wanted to create the greatest armies, the strongest shield, and the highest hope I could for you. I just wanted to ensure that when you march towards your destiny, you will be protected. A part of me feels like I failed, that… something might still happen to you, and that I should be doing more."
"Oh, Father…" Zelda replied quietly. Tears began forming. "I—"
"Don't," he said sharply. "Don't promise me you'll be fine. You can't know that, even with the blessing of the Great Goddesses. Even I would never make that promise to you, especially when I have already promised your mother that I would lay my life down to protect yours."
"Father—"
"That is the duty of a parent, regardless of station; king, commoner, and everyone in between," he said. "No matter what, I will be the final bulwark between you and whoever and whatever wishes to harm you. That much, I have promised."
Zelda tried to find the words, something to take that burden away, but nothing came to mind. She had hoped that when she unlocked her Sealing Powers, everything would be okay… as if a great weight would be lifted off her—their—shoulders. But it was now she realized that events were far from fine. Her next task would be to master her powers… and her final task was to take charge and be thrust into a war that her father had spent years preparing for, and now… he had reached the limit of what aid he could offer.
And that was tearing them both up inside.
She hugged him as tightly as she could manage. It was the only thing she could do. "I never should have fought against you as I have. I should have listened to you more."
"I should have been more upfront on my feelings," he whispered back. His arms wrapped around her comfortingly. "I was training you to fight in a war, but treating you like a child. I should have made it your choice. I shouldn't have let fear ruin our bond."
Zelda shook her head and couldn't hold back her giggle. "I suppose it'll always be a work in progress."
King Rhoam chuckled and squeezed her a bit more tightly. "Well, at least we're taking steps forward."
They remained silent for a time before parting. Zelda fiddled with a tassel on the arm of the couch. When King Rhoam shifted his weight to better observe her, she bit her lip and tucked a lock of her blonde hair behind her ear.
"Father…?" Zelda tentatively asked. She was having trouble meeting his eyes. "Um… about Link…?"
He chuckled mirthlessly again and rubbed his temples. "Far be it from me to deny the will of the Goddesses. For them to grant you their blessing after… after whatever happened… I will place my trust in your judgement. After all, the signs can't get any more obvious than having your powers manifest. Just know that he is on notice. For the rest of his life."
She giggled and smiled brightly at her father. "You know you like him."
"That ended when you told me the news."
"Liar."
It didn't escape their notice when the emblem on Zelda's hand grew a bit brighter.
~o~O~o~
Author's Notes:
Wow, this was so emotionally charged that I actually shed a tear or two trying to write this. Was flying home for the holidays, trying to sleep—and failing—when my inspiration kicked in and practically wrote the last scene in my head, right down to the dialogue. I ended up typing chunks of this on my phone because I was walking around terminals to my destinations. And if I didn't have my tablet with me, I would have probably rage quit the entire project out of sheer angst. I'm genuinely proud of this one.