#t0-d

~

Rinku awaited the coming bloodshed on the front line with other soldiers. Dressed in her green tunic and hat, chainmail, her Hylia Shield and wielding the Master Sword, she hoped to inspire hope. All the soldiers besides her could feel the dread swell up around them, but everyone stood strong.

Down below, a few Octaroks were swimming back up the river. Seemed the Hasai had broken the ambush fighters quick enough. The heavy sound of marching was soon easily heard well enough. Coming up from the valley, a war horn of the Kikai Empire boomed.

Back at the centre of the Domain, Zora Mages set to work on shifting the weather to their advantage. Rain started to pour down as they beat their drums and sang incantations. The Song of Storms would single the dawn of battle.

Rinku grimaced as the rain tapped against her hat. The rain was enough to drench the landscape, but not enough to make the visibility poor to their artillery.

Finally, the Hasai appeared. A legion of over a thousand warriors marched upwards, using their natural abilities to light a vision through the storm. The rain would not be enough to quench their flames. Leading them, in a set of new golden and white armour, Seras drew a glaive, raising it to the sky. Thunder crackled in the sky, and with a boom a bolt of lightning shimmered downwards. Shoving his weapon towards the heart of his enemies, Seras roared out his command. “ATTACK!!!”

The Hasai roared, charging forward. Rinku had her target now. The son of a bitch who potentially killed her father and hurt her sister. With a whistle, she threw an arm down for the Sheikah legion to make its first strike. Up above on the cliffsides, they launched bombs strapped to arrows at the Hasai. The Hylian platoon of archers farther back fired enough arrows to pierce every drop the fell, for just a second. Rows and rows of Hasai fell in the first attack. Then it was there turn.

Casters of fire launched bolts forward as they ran ahead. These streaks of fire forced the ninja to flee the cliff sides they hide in. In the back lines, war machines were pushed up the valley. Once in position, engineers launched destructive balls of metal, splinters, and fire down upon the forces of Hyrule. As men were scattered, Rinku pushed down her past memories of bloody conflict. She had more pressing matters to think about rather then bloody corpses. Ironing her will, the ancient spirit of the hero within took charge of the growing fear in her comrades in arms. “Fall back to the mountain side! We’ll have cover from their bombs! Go! Go!”

Seras hissed, charging forward. “Split up my warriors! We shall start taking the cliff pathway toward the capital! I will split the hero princess in two and paint these bridges with her blood.”

Far above, Zannah was freshly dressed, rested, and awaiting her opening. Flying on her Manticore, her expression was neutral as the fighting started. Despite a strong start to the conflict, it was best she didn’t let her ego get the better of her. Hyrule positions were easy to spot enough, but they didn’t let themselves be open to attack. For now, she’d wait. “Bellum should be making his move by now.”

From the seaside, three small war blimps were floating above to the mountain side looking far down at the Zora’s home. A company of elite troops marched and hopped out of the blimp as it just finished its landing cycle. T0-D helped the Grand Admiral out of the blimp gently. “Everyone get to work. We have a war to win. T0-D, set out for the dam once we begin our fire from above.”

“Confirmation: It will be done Grand Admiral.”

However, unknown to Bellum, Zelda was ready. Disguised and prepared for the rainy environment as her alter-ego Sheik, she, Klinge, and squads of her own and the commander’s forces were ready to strike. With a pump of her arm, she gave the silent command to give the ambush.  Like hell she was going to leave this position open to flanking. Grassy Octaroks popped out of the earth, launching sharp rocks at the closest Hasai. Zora rose up, throwing javelins through the torsos of the invaders, and Klinge himself charged forward. “For Ganondorf!!!”

T0-D was instant in his protection of Bellum, grabbing a javelin thrown at his field commander. The Hasai immediately drew their weapons and lunged into the fight. Zora were taller than your average Hylian or Hasai, so this was the first fight that wouldn’t be a steamroll for the fiery warriors. Some Zora were able to conduct rain falling down around them into weapons themselves. As Hasai shot bolts of fire, some Zora conducted the water around them into spheres so large and heavy, that when casted at the warriors of Empire, it would throw them off the mountain side or crash them into boulders like fish against the rocks of a shoreline.

Bellum drew a crossbow, firing towards the Zora warriors. While he held not an ounce of magic in his being, he was still a capable fighter. “T0-D! Open the cages! Then you have your mission to uphold!”

The android nodded, walking towards one of the blimps. Inside, there were cages with only a few tiny holes for air to breath in instead of bars. Opening the door, roars erupted as cats with fiery manes ran out in a pack. With fierce fury, they clawed and sank their jaws into the Hylian forces.

Zelda jumped onto a rock as on of the hellcats ran towards her. As it hissed, its mane of fire flared. Jumping towards her, the cat tried to slash the spandex of her legs. Moving her leg, the Hyrule Warrior stabbed a short sword into its paw. The cat hissed running away. To her left, another hellcat jumped towards the Queen.

Instead of sinking its fangs into flesh, it broke them on steel. Klinge had his shield in its jaws, and bringing a mace down on its head, caved its skull in. “Queen Zelda. Be mindful of your surroundings.”

She just needed a single breath to compose herself. “Thank you Commander Klinge.”

“We still have a battle to win. And I’d like to make sure Hyrule doesn’t lose its entire monarchy in it.” The undead Gerudo watched as the remaining hellcats and Hasai grouped together, taking a second wind to charge into battle once more. With a tap of his mace on his shield, Klinge charged forward into the fight again. He would not fall here.

~

“Quickly! In here!”

Leere was frantic in leading Impa inside. Luckily for them, no Hasai had spotted them on the way to the cabin. And none had inspected it during her absence. Opening the door, Ganondorf was still on a couch, resting, yet ready to defend himself. “Leere? And Impa? Didn’t think I’d ever say it was good to see you, but it is.”

Impa shrugged, closing the door behind them. “Likewise. Zelda and the kingdom gravely feared your loss.”

“And you?”

“It distresses me to see Zelda and your children distressed.”

As Ganondorf chuckled, he grimaced under the pain in his broken ribs. “Don’t make me laugh.”

Leere tugged at Impa’s hand, looking concerned. “Impa, can you help him? You said that there was a battle going to happen at Zora’s Domain. We need to get out there and help. And we need to be able to have him get up without breaking a hip.”

“Daughter…”

Impa walked towards Ganondorf, motioning for him to lie down. Grabbing a pinkish potion, she handed it to the king. “I’m going to try and heal your lips from the outside while you drink this potion.”

“What’s this pink one again?”

“If you’re hung up on the colour, don’t be. It’s great fairy tears. Very powerful healing magic in it, and also incredibly hard to acquire. Be grateful I’m sparing it to you.”

“I weep for joy-AH THE HELL!!!” Ganondorf roared as Impa applied pure light to start her healing magic against Ganondorf’s ribcage. It stung with more force than a hive of hornets.

“I’d start drinking that potion now if you’d like relief.”

Leere waited as she watched her father heal, grabbing a bag of gear to resupply on. She had a feeling she wasn’t coming back to this cabin.

Soon enough, the process was done, and Ganondorf took a few deep breaths before standing. With a squeeze of his hand, he felt the power of the triforce glow within. It was like a small flame keeping his spirit warm. But right now, he wanted more than a kindle. He wanted a forest fire to burn in his heart. “Impa, you said Zora’s Domain was under attack?”

“Indeed. A large force of the invaders is trying to seize it as we speak, no doubt about it.”

“Go tell your horse to go home. Once you’re done, both of you hang tight. Can get us there, but I wouldn’t want to let go of me.”

Both Leere and Impa nodded with determination. With Ganondorf back on his feet, they felt their spirits sour.

~

The battle raged on, many dead on both sides. Monsters clashed against the Hasai on the mountain trail to the capital. They found themselves hiding behind cover, stone Beamos firing laser fire whenever they drew too close. Other Hasai started beating Bokoblins with fists of fire if they lost their weapons in the scuffle of combat.

Raam sank his teeth into a Zora, swallowing the warrior alive as Zannah shot fire from atop her mount in defense of a few Romtan engineers who were ambushed. “Get those catapults in range!”

“Princess! The rain makes it impossible to push the wheels up the hill!”

“Then carry it! We can’t lose the battle due to poor terrain and spirit!” With the whip of a collar, her manticore took off into the air once more on leathery wings.

Meanwhile, Bellum was getting back into a blimp. He was not going to lose his life if he couldn’t help it. “Soldiers! Cover me! We must reach our prime objective.”

Klinge and ‘Sheik’ worked surprisingly well together. As the bigger warrior, Klinge was an armoured tank that protected Zelda, but as the smaller, nimbler warrior, the Queen was able to cover his flanks effectively. Together, they fought their way through the soldiers of the Kikai Empire. There only major obstacles were the hellcats that were still alive.

With aggressive roars, they circled the pair, looking for an open moment to strike. The Queen saw that the enemy commander was making his escape, and she would not miss this opportunity to take him down. “Klinge! Give me a platform to jump from!”

Nodding, Klinge quickly brought his shield low for Zelda to stand upon. As he threw her into the air, the hellcats sprang forward. With the momentum of throwing his arm upwards, he spun it back around, crashing the shield into the head of one of the fiery beasts, while another tackled him to the ground.

Rolling in the wet grass, Klinge wrestled with the feline, having claws slash against his plate armour. With a small growl of his own, he raised his arm, concentrating on a magic energy spear to materialize. Grasping it, he thrust it downwards, penetrating the hellcat’s neck. Rising up, he was shot by a squad of Hasai who avoided the other soldiers in his own ranks. The undead hissed as his armour was being lit up in fire, flames squeezing their way through his joints.

With a roar, Hylian soldiers came to his aid, hacking away at the Hasai that assaulted him. Chief among them Kelly, who wanted payback from the assault on the castle. “Get away from the commander you savages!”

Klinge picked himself up as the squad ran to him. “My thanks.”

“Commander. Are you well?”

“I will be. Stay focused.”

Karkus, another soldier Klinge knew well, pointed at the shiny metal android stepping closer. “Sir! Freak incoming!”

When Kelly saw the android again, she froze. “No. Not again.”

Klinge knew that this was the thing that killed Samson and the rest of Kelly’s squad. Stepping in front of all the Hylians, Malik summoned a katana in his right hand, and a short round shield attached to his left.

T0-D stopped in his tracks, drawing two blue blades that shimmered along the edge. “Observation: Large Darknut. Human variety. Sensing a lack of life from you. My complete analysis? You are beneath me.”

“I’m not going to listen to the drivel of a talking, soulless garbage can.”

Klinge and T0-D clashed in a flurry of blows, the undead only able to keep up and counter due to his vast centuries of experience in combat. The android was relentless, a whirlwind of blue as he arms struck in every direction he could. With a strong kick, he pushed Klinge back a few feet, but the commander stood tall.

“Declaration: Someone please kill this tin soldier. I have a pressing engagement to attend to.”

To Klinge’s shock and anger, the android ran away, speeding down the mountain. Chasing after him, other Hasai were ready to sacrifice their lives if it meant slowing him down. They didn’t realize they were doomed. With silent fury, the commander concentrated on his magic, raising a wall of dark fire between himself and the Hasai soldiers. Continuing after the android, it quickly dawned on Klinge where it was heading. “The dam. Those bastards.”

As Bellum’s blimp was taking off into the air, Zelda landed on the deck. The Grand Admiral was surprised to have an intruder break through his glass window. A few engineers were moving all the switches needed for take off and to move out of range before the armies of Hyrule could have artillery put into position that could punch a hole through their sails.

Drawing a matchlock pistol without a stutter in his pace, Bellum fired at this Sheikah that dared to step too far out of her comfort zone. The steel bolt fired outwards, barely missing its target, though only in its intended mark. The bullet scrapped Zelda shoulder, enough to bleed her.

Rolling forward she drew her short sword, stabbing at a soldier that went to defend Bellum. When she rose up to deliver a killing blow at the Grand Admiral, Bellum struck her with the end of his pistol. He had a hard steel end for the purpose of pistol whipping his enemies. Her head was throbbing as she backed away. Not wanting to waste time reloading, and now with no other guards, Bellum drew a rapier to duel the Queen.

No words were exchanged as Zelda parried Bellum’s strikes. Her headache from the strike to the temple was throbbing, and she knew she couldn’t fight at her best until she could clear her head. Grasping a deku nut in her back pocket, she threw it down, blinding her opponent.

As Bellum walked backwards and rubbed his eyes to clear his vision, he noticed a glow come from his opponent’s hand. With his vision clear, it appeared that the ninja was no longer dazed. It was if she magically made her senses clear. With a smirk, he quickly studied her build, confidence, the glow that faded from her hand. “I never would have expected Queen Zelda to appear on the battlefield.”

That certainly shook Zelda by surprise. She grimaced behind her mask towards the man. “And who are you to lead an army against her land?”

“Her land? There is no need for a disguise. The way you carry yourself, your resourcefulness, and not to mention, the command of healing magic you possess. This gives away your true identity. As for me, I am Grand Admiral Bellum. And I will be the architect of Hyrule’s destruction.”

“Oh, I don’t think so.”

~

Rinku and the Hylian forces on the bridges were being pushed back farther and farther towards the capital. On the other mountain passes the Hasai were slowly dwindling down the blockades that kept them from murdering every Zora that couldn’t fight. As the princess retreated the final mountain pass, she held took a few hard breaths before exhaling with a plan. “Soldiers! Go to the bridge! There are no more chances of retreat. You will hold your ground and fight to the last man standing.”

“What about you princess.”

“I will stay here, and hold them off. Now go!”

The soldiers of Hyrule would not argue with their hero. The marching of boots ran down to the final garrison awaiting the Hasai. Rinku ran up the mountain top, clutching her bow, and waited.

As Seras and his remaining army marched forward, Rinku closed one eye to concentrate. “Smile you son of a-”

An arrow flew by, and with a little bit of magic, froze a Hasai about to fire a catapult. With another arrow, she fired at Seras, freezing the prince’s leg to the ground. The pain of the cold was nothing like Seras had ever felt before in his life. It stung like a thousand bees all at once. “Wh-wh-who dares?!”

Seras unfroze himself with a burst of fire, looking up at Rinku, her green image shining like a leprechaun atop the mountain, full view for anyone on the battlefield to look up to. “Men! Capture the capital. I will slay the brat princess! Killing their hero will be the final nail to seal Hyrule’s moral away for good!”

Rinku watched as the Hasai cheered, and as Prince Seras flew up the mountain, fire jetting from below his feet to propel him upwards faster. Tossing the bow to the side, the princess drew her sword and shield just as the Ocho Prince landed in front of her. “Hello again princess.”

“Seras.”

“Oh, you know my name on que, do you? I suppose my name should be recognized by now.” Seras grew a cruel smile, his eyes expanded with delighted glee. “I killed your father. A burn his face and sent his body crashing into a river below. I’ll have the distinct pleasure of killing not one, but two avatars of your puny goddesses. Then maybe I’ll kill Zelda to finish the set.”

Rinku’s face was as cold as ice. “For that, your conquest ends here.”

The royal heroes of each faction clashed, with Seras using his golden glaive against Rinku’s blade of evil’s bane. The prince of the empire backed away, spinning his weapon above his head for intimidation before swinging it back down. As he did, a streak of fire launched towards her, evaporating the rain that well down. Rinku leap to her left, feeling sweat mix with rain that dripped down her face. Thunder boomed and Seras roared with it.

Rinku rolled around the prince as he tried a horizontal strike to cut her in half. Kicking up she hit the prince in the shoulder plate, her blade whishing in front of his face. To return the favour, Seras brought his foot up, kicking his enemy right in the nose. “Ha! Look at you grovel at my feet.”

Without skipping a beat, Rinku grabbed some mud and threw it at his face. “Grovel this.”

Seras grunted, and in his blindness, he stabbed towards Rinku. The strike was aimed well enough to deflect her sword to the side, but it didn’t stop her from standing on her feet and smashing his face in with the brunt of her shield. With a growl, the warrior princess kept bashing her shield into Seras, every blunt strike breaking his nose further and further. As she was ready to clean his head off, something thick and round hit her from behind.

Flying over head, Raam the Manticore flew off, his ball like tail dangling behind. Zannah jumped down to assist her brother, running quickly to deliver a jump kick to the dazed Rinku. “Hey there princess.”

Rinku and Seras wiped the blood from their faces, each at an equal level of rage fueling them. Seras’ fists glew with fire as he stood by his sister’s side. “You’re going to pay for that you brat.”

“I’ve faced worse odds.”

“But can you beat two versus one at our levels?” Zannah took out a new double-side blade, swinging it into a battle stance.

Rinku replied by swing her sword to the side, putting her shield up, and tightening up her stance.

When the lightning streaked across the sky, both of the twins ran towards Rinku. Suddenly, they split off, one going for the right flank, and the other for the left flank. The Link within her thought back to past battles she could draw from. When both the twins came out her, Rinku parried every strike, stab, and kick they tried to throw. Her sword and shield were extensions of her limbs, and she pushed every muscle in her body to stay alive. Finally, when Zannah stabbed forward, Rinku deflected the strike to her left, having her nearly stab her brother in the arm.

It dawned on Rinku that the two weren’t being overly coordinate. “What? You did so much better the first time we met.”

“You can’t divide us.” Zannah sneered. Pointing her free hand, she shot a bolt of lightning out at Rinku with two fingers. The Princess held her shield up to deflect the strike. As she held her ground, she saw Seras approach from the right. Having her Master Sword, she made a silent pray for the gods to guide her strike true. Putting the blade in the path of the lightning, she pointed her weapon next at Seras, and on a silent command, the lightning was shot outwards, electrocuting the prince on the spot.

Zannah stopped when Seras screamed aloud, his perfect white hair being singed. “Brother!”

Rinku held her shield true as Zannah shifted her magic from lightning to fire, trying to melt her into kindle. Running to her with her shield up, Rinku smashed away Zannah’s hands, and with a quick strike, brought her blade down against her. No limbs were severed, but Zannah’s arm was sliced open down to the hand. Falling backwards, the princess screamed in agony at her wound.

“Yield.”

Zannah still had her grip on her sword, but Rinku was on top of her. This was the second time she had beaten. “I can’t.”

“I don’t want to kill a defeated opponent, but I will if I must.”

Seras meanwhile, rose from behind. “Insignificant, repulsive, green little rat! How dare you! You will not make a mockery out of my family!” Charging a massive fireball, he charged it with just enough electric spark to make it frightfully explosive. When it collided against Rinku’s shield, it sent the green hero flying backwards into a rock. Zannah herself held up her remaining arm to try and magically divert the explosion from scorching her. When Seras walked by her, he looked disgusted by her. “I can’t believe she beat you. Again.”

“I’m not dead yet.”

“Get up. You can make sure she doesn’t leave.” Rinku tried to stand up, but Seras was quicker. With a kick, he smashed his boot into her eye. “Little ant. I like to burn ants.” With a hand out, he shot a bolt of fire into her leg. “What’s wrong hero?”

Rinku felt herself be picked up by Zannah from behind. When she was thrown forward, Seras delivered a strong punch he had reeled back, knocking her back down onto her back. “You’re nothing.”

“Yeah?” Rinku didn’t know if she was going to survive this. In fact, every passing moment she felt like the answer was no. But like hell she wasn’t going to let him gloat. Finding a nice rock, she had enough strength to throw it at the prince as he was gloating. It flew through the air and hit him right above the eye. Perfect enough to make him scream and bleed like a punk. “What does that make you?”

“YOU MAGGOT!!!” Seras stomped over to Rinku, his one open eye bloodshot with fury. Why was she still smiling? “You dare mock me?!” Driving his foot down, he kept kicking Rinku over and over in the stomach and chest. Finally, with both hands, he squeezed his fists, engulfing them in fire. “I’m going to beat you within an inch of your life now.”

Above him though, on a rock looking down at the three, a loud crack against the stone turned their gaze. Down on the battlefield, those who weren’t engaged in combat pointed out a new contender that couldn’t be missed. Seras and Zannah looked up. Lightning illuminated the Gerudo King, and he was not a happy man. Seras, for just a moment, reverted into the small, scared child he was. “No… no I killed you. How…?”

“What do you think you’re doing to my daughter?”

Before Zannah could react, some other girl came out of nowhere, socking her in the head with a quick punch. The Hasai Princess went falling down a hillside, a few levels down from the others.

Seras didn’t answer the question, all these failures now finally starting to push him over the edge. “No. No. No. No. No. No! I told my father I killed you! I won’t be deemed a liar in his eyes. This time I will just have to bring him a body. DIE!!!”

With all the power he could muster, Seras was wild with his magic, throwing bolt after bolt of fire at Ganondorf. The prince persisted in his attacks, finally cultivating in a wide stream of flame. His paranoia led him to not be precise, and the King of the Gerudo walked through the fire as if he was demon coming out of hell.

The rain continued to pour down, and Ganondorf’s posture didn’t change. “My turn.” With a mighty yell, Ganondorf charged up a yellow ball of energy. When he released it against the Seras, the prince screamed. It was as if his body was frozen, on fire, and electrocuted all at once. His nerves had no idea what to make of it. And before the prince had a chance to recover, Ganondorf ran forward, delivering punch after punch in a vicious beating against the teenager. Pinning him to a rock, Ganondorf kept beating him over and over. When he threw Seras to the ground, the prince crawled in the wet grass, reaching for his glaive. The Ocho was fueled by instinct in his movements to survive now. However, when he tried to swing it around, Ganondorf brought his foot down on it so hard, the hilt snapped in half.

With a dark blur, Ganondorf’s own demonic trident was summoned. With no mercy in his heart, he brought in down on Seras. With all three tips stabbed through one end and out the other, the King lifted Seras high into the air. The Hasai warriors that lived were terrified to see the King of Hyrule not only return, but kill their prince in such a barbaric display. None more were shocked and horrified than Zannah though. The princess could only watch helplessly as her brother was gutted. “NO! SERAS NO!”

Seras slid down the trident spikes, close enough to come face to face with Ganondorf. The only expression Ganondorf saw now was pain. And fear. Satisfied, and knowing that he would only suffer longer if left like this, Ganondorf placed a hand on the boy’s head. With little effort know, he pulled tight, ripping the head from the body. Lightning crackled and thunder boomed. To his enemies, Ganondorf was the King of Evil. With a flick of his arm, he threw the body off his spear and downwards off the mountain. The prince’s body bounced off rocks and sank into the waters below, to be forgotten and washed down the river. As for the head, Ganondorf tossed it downwards to the princess. Zannah was in shock as her brother’s head rolled almost perfectly at her feet. Slamming his trident down, Ganondorf almost whispered out a command out to the invaders remaining royal, but she heard it clearly. “Get out of my country.”

Leere was helping Rinku to her feet, already pushing a potion to her lips to heal up. Zannah grabbed her brothers head, taking a step back as Ganondorf took a step forward. “Or maybe I should just kill the rest of you and dispose of the trash.”

Zannah instead whistled, and her manticore came to her. Ganondorf had never seen this creature before, but when it turned its tail forward like a scorpion, instincts took over. The monster fired bolts of iron that could pierce the mountain side, trying to stake everyone. The King ran over to his daughters, grabbing them as he leapt behind cover. Zannah ran to her manticore, jumping on the saddle. “This isn’t over until I kill you all!”

As Zannah was ready to fly into position, a large blade of water slammed into her beasty, sending them twirling out of the sky and far down into the river below. Her manticore and her stayed a float in the water, but were dragged down river, far away from the battle where they would cause no more strife. All that could be heard from Zannah was her furious screams. Many Hasai started to retreat to go save their princess.

Standing on a rock, Impa was still in stance from using their ninjutsu. Looking down at the royals, she waved them over. “Come now. Zelda and the people of Zora’s Domain still need our assistance.”

~

Bellum and Sheik were still dueling on the blimp, which was now flying over the lagoon. Their swords clashed as they danced around, and Bellum kept his guard up. The Queen was a formidable opponent. Even if he had the capabilities to use fire, being inside his war blimp would only be self destructive if he did. Thankfully he had years of physical combat training to keep him alive.

With duck, Bellum brought his sword up, which knocked the Queen’s balance off. Another strike horizontally, Bellum smashed her short sword out of her hands, and out the window. “This battle is finished.” The Grand Admiral took a few breaths, needing to catch his breath from keeping pace. “Surrender Zelda. As Queen, you can still live a life of luxury under the banner of the Empire.”

“While the rest of my people live as slaves?”

“That is the price for you defying us so far.”

“Then I will defy you a little while longer.”

Although he respected her dedication, Bellum frowned none the less. “Shame that won’t be much longer at all.”

Moving in to strike her down, Zelda knew she had to act quickly against the Grand Admiral. Slipping a kunai down her sleeve and into her hand, she threw it past Bellum’s shoulder and into the face of a Hasai at the wheel of the blimp. As her target jerked in a death fall, the wheel spun left, and the blimp tilted.

Bellum didn’t expect such a sudden and bold move that wasn’t going to be made against him. When he went to strike at Zelda, he missed as she threw herself left with the momentum of the blimp. What came next, was another prediction he didn’t calculate for.

Diving out the window, Zelda turned herself around midair. She needed to give the blimp one final smashing. Channeling her holy powers, the Queen of Hryule summoned a bow and arrow of light. Pulling the bow string back, she smirked behind her mask. Letting go, the arrow shot forward, piercing the hull and sails of the blimp. With a loud wail, the blimp instantly caught fire, and started to descend.

As for the queen herself, her bow disintegrated into particles of light, and she positioned herself to breach the water below. Taking a deep breath, her body dived in, propelling herself like a torpedo with her velocity. Quickly submerging, she ran to the surface.

Bellum was taken completely aback by this attempt on his life. Looking around on the bridge, he noticed the rest of his operating crew was dead. Picking himself up he hopped over the wheel. T0-D had not succeeded in his task yet. Which meant he was either destroyed or being stalled. Either way, the Grand Admiral would not fail in his objective. Steering the ship accordingly, he calculated his route and executed his plan. Looking at the window, he aimed for the top of the dam, and then simply waited.

~

Zelda took off her mask as she reached land. On the right side of the dam, she looked down to see the battle rage on the final bridge. Soldiers of Hyrule fought against the invading warriors, not willing to surrender an inch. Wanting to help she started to run to the central walkway from the dam to the domain, when she saw Klinge fighting some sort of mechanic menace. Both were engaged in deep sword combat. Before Zelda could say anything, Klinge shouted out to her, as if he knew. “No! Go assist the soldiers! Go now!”

Zelda only hesitated for a moment. However, the commander was right. And she had faith in his abilities to take care of himself. Running down to the domain as fast she could, she ran in to join her soldiers. “Fight on! Their leadership is defeated! We can win! Believe in hope and we will win!”

As Zelda blinded a group of Hasai with a deku nut, a deep and calming voice spoke out to her from the right. “I couldn’t agree more my dear.” With a deep roar, a blast of magic smashed away another section of Hasai on the bridge, scattering them off the bridge and into the raging water below.

Spinning her head to look, Zelda’s eyes were filled with relief and shock. “Ganondorf!”

The Gerudo king slashed another enemy soldier with his trident, allowing a group of Zora soldiers the time to charge ahead and reclaim some ground. “Yes. And I’m not leaving you again.”

When a Hasai fire caster tried to launch a large fireball at them, Rinku rolled into the defensive, scattering the flames with her shield. The caster was then grabbed by a redead, devouring him alive. Rinku smiled to her mom and dad as she ran to them. “Sorry about the close call mom. Had to get backup.”

Zelda saw Leere using dark magic, conducting the undead not too far away. “Leere too? I’m so thankful to see you’re all alright.”

Leere drew closer with her parents and sister in arms. “We aren’t out of this yet.”

Ganondorf chuckled, stabbing his trident upwards towards the sky. “Neh. We aren’t. Not until every last one of them is dead.” Pointing down from the heavens to the remaining Hasai, Ganondorf was ready to give them hell on earth.

The Hasai saw that the Hylians had all their leadership and powerful reinforcements. Finally, the word had gotten out to the front ranks that the prince had been killed and the princess was taken out of the battle. With a horn to signal them, the Hasai did something they loathed, but weren’t completely foolish to ignore. They started to retreat.

Ganondorf laughed evilly as he saw his enemies scatter. “After them! If any escape they might return with vengeance!”

Leere was all about it, pumped up by his energy. Rinku and Zelda both gave him a look, which caused Ganondorf to shrug. “Our men need the confidence. And perhaps I scared those barbarians from ever returning.”

“Then victory is-!!!” Zelda paused, her attention turning to the blimp that was ready to crash head first into the dam.

~

T0-D was growing aggravated. Never before had an opponent lasted so long against him. Every strike was countered, and every time he thought he calculated a strategy against the darknut, the warrior switched his tactics up completely using magic or switching battle techniques. Just as he was ready to engage his division for more weapon support, another warrior came into the fray.

They wielded a large cleaver like sword, and without an exchange of dialogue, they were attacking him as one unit. A sheikah and darknut. T0-D’s processes were beginning to understand the word hate more and more now. “Declaration: I will not be postponed any longer by meatbags.”

Both Klinge and Impa took battle positions, ready for the android to make the next move, when they looked up to the sky. Klinge was taken aback by the sight of the fiery ball of fire falling towards them. “What in oblivion is that?!”

T0-D scanned the blimp. No life forms except for the Grand Admiral. It didn’t take a super computer to know what he intended to do. And T0-D wasn’t going to let the captain go down with the ship. Retreating back up the mountain path, T0-D broke off from the battle, putting all his power into his legs to travel faster. Once he felt he was at an appropriate height, he sprung himself off the mountain and onto the blimp. Slicing his way down to the bridge, T0-D looked over to the Bellum collapsed over the wheel, having fallen unconscious due to smoke. Grabbing him, T0-D hosted the man over his shoulder. Looking down at the dam, he charged his eye, and fired a beam. The laser damaged the dams top just enough for the hammer to crack it open. Finally, the android left one last parting gift on the blimp. Content the mission would be a success, T0-D took the Grand Admiral and fled the crashing vessel. Running out the window, his arm launched a hookshot to grapple the mountain, and with that, the Hasai android fled the battlefield.

Klinge and Impa saw that there was nothing they could do to stop the blimp. If they didn’t want to be roadkill, they had to jump off the dam and into the water below. “No time to delay!”

Klinge took Impa’s hand, surprising the warrior, and took a long fall down into the water under the capital. Even if he couldn’t swim, he didn’t need to worry about drowning. As they neared the water, Klinge nodded to Impa, allowing them to use him as a platform to break their fall on the water by jumping off him. With a loud splash, the undead Gerudo sunk to the bottom of the domain.

He thought he’d be swept away with the underwater current eventually, but he felt something latch to him. Looking up, he saw a chain had gripped him. Grabbing it, he took it, slowly pulling himself up to the surface. Reaching air, he saw Impa had shot a claw shot at him. “Not going to let you be forgotten to all but the fish.”

“Thank you.”

Both didn’t have anything else to say as they looked up. Carnage was upon them.

To the horror of those in the domain, they couldn’t celebrate victory as the blimp crashed into the dam. Inside the deck, T0-D had left a bomb. As it finished ticking, it detonated, and a massive explosion shook the foundations of the dam, shattering it. Stone flew into the air and water poured out, ready to consume everything and everyone in its path.

Under normal circumstances, the Hasai would have won. The gods would have looked down on Hyrule and not answered its pray as the water of the lagoon would have swept away a whole section of Hyrule away. However, Zelda was not one to rely on gods. And she wasn’t going to let her fate end here.

Running forward, she put both her hands up, and she put up barrier, holding all the water back. Her Triforce of Wisdom glowed intensely, the golden triangle practically illuminating the area. Zora citizens and soldiers panicked as they saw stone from the dam fall and water leak. With more concentration, Zelda widened her barrier, stopping water from pulling out. Yet despite her efforts, this was an Olympian task. The Queen of Hyrule knew this was a losing battle.

Despite being Triforce users themselves, Ganondorf and Rinku had no idea what to do. Rinku’s magic was limited, and only weapon based. Ganondorf had more destructive magic, but he doubted he could annihilate all that water. “Zelda! What can we do to help you?!”

“Can’t. Hold it.” Zelda gritted threw her teeth. Her muscles in her arms were pushed to its limit, the spandex of her suit ripping.  

In her desperation, Rinku fired multiple ice arrows at the dam. They had a minuscule effect at most. “Oh, come on! This isn’t fair!”

Her daughter’s efforts clicked something for Zelda, but she’d need a stronger energy source to do so. “Rinku. Ganondorf. Give me your pieces of the Triforce.”

“What?” Ganondorf was taken aback, wondering what plan Zelda was cooking.

“Trust. Me.”

Both of Rinku and Ganondorf looked to Zelda, and with an exchange of deep trust, they found it within themselves, through out the experiences of their past lives, to trust Zelda. Both put their hands out to Zelda, and the Triforce of Courage and Power transferred from them to the queen. Zelda felt a surge of energy within her soul. With her body glowing a rainbow mist, Zelda’s hands shone bright yellow. A blaze stopped all the rainfall, and her barrier pushed the water back. A cry for victory and safety was heard from her across the domain as all the water went back into the area of the lagoon. With a squeeze of her fist and precise use of magic, a wall of ice started to be formed. Taking the place of stone, this was ice that would never melt.

Her work complete, Zelda fell backwards into Ganondorf’s arms. As a rainbow and the sun shined on the valley, there was a moment’s pause from everyone as they waited to see if the ice would hold. Finally, a cry of celebration shook the valley as every Monster, Hylian, and Zora cheered in victory!

Relinquishing control, Zelda gave the Triforce pieces that were not her own back to Ganondorf and Rinku. Leere ran forward to them, heavily concerned for her mother. “Are you going to be ok? Are you hurt? Are you-”

“Leere. I’m fine. Just give me…” Zelda took a few breaths. Content, she smiled to her family, standing up. “There. Now, all of you, come here.”

Smiles on all of them, they came together in a loving hug. Zelda did her best to not cry as she breathed in her husband’s scent. “I love you all so much.”

“I promise you all. I will never leave your side like that again.”

Rinku looked to Leere, smiling broadly ear to ear. “You going to stick around too?”

Leere nodded, content that her family was safe. “Yes. I’m not going anywhere.”

Ganondorf released the hug, hands on both his daughter’s shoulders. “Good. Because it will take all of us to expel the Hasai. The war isn’t done until they are gone from our lands for good.”

Zelda and her family turned to the rainbow high above. Together, they had won this battle. And together, they would win the War of Fire.

~

In the claimed lands of the Kikai Empire, word had finally traveled to the Emperor. He was heavily displeased with the results.

Kneeling before him, the eldest prince bowed his head, waiting for his father’s command. “Nihilus. Your younger brother is dead. Your sister has failed me. I will have you finish what they started. You will do what they could not in their incompetence.”

“And what of Grand Admiral Bellum?”

The Emperor gave thought to his son’s words. “The Grand Admiral carried out his task admirably. It was unforeseen that the magics of Hyrule would defeat him. He will have no punishment. Besides, I still have needs of his strategic mind.” The Emperor coughed loudly, his stress mixing with his illness. “Go to Hyrule. There, you must find an artifact called the Sheikah Slate. It is the key we need to pilot our new weapon. With it not only Hyrule will fall, but every country in the world will bow to the might of the Kikai Empire. Have your sister ordered to return. Do not fail me.”

“As you command my Emperor. I will finish this war. For the glory of the Kikai Empire.”

________________________________________________________________

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Covarog wanted to have his wife makeup some excuse that he could not be here at this meeting. He always hated dealing with diplomatic issues pertaining to Zannah. Even over the years, he still could not shake the feeling that the Empress was always up to no good. Still, he remained somewhat civil. So, when his wife dragged him tot he throne room, he did his best to be... cordial.

"A criminal or a runaway?" Covarog repeated. "You must understand my surprise. The Empire has such strict rules and regulations, that there are hardly any of the such."

"Might we ask exactly what this person has done?" Zarazu wished to have a bit more information. "If this person has caused harm to my citizens, I would prefer to deal judgement with Zannah, not apart."

"A runaway. We know that Hasai are allowed to live in Hyrule. We'd never take a citizen who freely lives in Hyrule away unless they committed a crime against the Empire itself. Even then, we'd discuss the matter with you first. This Hasai in particular we are after fled Empire territory with damaging information that could cause infrastructure in the Empire to be crippled for a time. We believe that they might be a threat to themselves, as well as others." Hresvelg gave a nod of his head to Covarog in particular. "My grand father was the once the war hero Grand Admiral Bellum. I believe you were only a child when our people were at war, but I think you would know him. He was a level headed man, known for keeping his word and keeping respect amongst allies and enemies. So please know, I swear on his grave and family legacy that we will not be a danger to your people in our operation."

"We understand, though, before you take this perpetrator back to the Empire, we would like to speak to this person." Covarog explained to Hresvelg. "Put a face to a name, and understand why this happened, especially if they were working with another unpleasant character here in Hyrule. We do not want either of our nations in turmoil."

"A fair request, don't you agree, sir?" Zarazu asked the agent.

Hresvelg shared his grand father's poker face. He was glad too, because how the hell was he supposed to respond to that. Sorry, but his Emperor ordered that the Hylian royalty not witness the target, but I'm sure you can understand right? And he loathed lying. "I'm afraid it's highly important that the runaway is brought back immediately to Empire territory for questioning. They are also a teenager, so I imagine their parents must be ready to deliver quite the earful to them for their misbehaviour. However, out of good faith, I promise I will bring to you alive and as unharmed as allowed any unsavoury characters we have found them with. Is this request acceptable?"

"A kid?" Zarazu now sounded concerned. "How can a teenager get such vital information?"

"You know as well as I do that some children are trained to be deadly, my queen." Covarog reminded her, knowing full well of the Empire's hostile tactics. "Very well. Bring them here."

That would be good enough to not have Hylian forces interfere. "As you wish."

And that wasn't him making a promise either. Leaving the castle, Hresvelg flashed a light in the sky. Flying above a single was received, and the command was given a go.

~

Two weeks had passed since Grievous had arrived. So many days since Zizi had left her house. The Waku girl didn't know how she could help patch the relationship of her father and his wife if she didn't return. In the meantime, she slowly dropped her guard around the family, yet it seemed that Kahli never opened up to her the way he did with his other children. To them, despite tensions, he was warm, attentive and loving. Everything a father should be. To her, he was still rather indifferent. Outside, she was playing on chess board with Urboro. Kahli forbad her from initiating challenges of physical combat, so Grievous thought of different ways to see which siblings she could defeat in some ways. "My knight takes your rook."

"Annnnd... checkmate." Urboro knocked over Grievous' king with her queen. "You left your king unguarded. A knight shouldn't leave his post unless necessary. Got a little too ahead of yourself there, Grivy. I think you should stick to checkers, you beat Manaco seven times already in that game."

Grievous looked at the board, stunned in disbelief. How did she miss that? Glaring at Urboro, she didn't like the fact that she made a bet over a game of chess. "Don't be a jerk. Best two out of three."

"I'm not a jerk, I'm just took extra lessons from Uncle Ralnor in chess." Urboro grinned widely at Grievous. "Do I detect a tint of..." She held over her eyes, pretending to look, teasing. "A sore loser?"

"I just don't like you undermining my value as an intellectual. Just name your stupid prize for winning." Grievous crossed her arms, embarrassed at her loss.

"You shall have the honor of painting my toenails." Urboro set down a jar of polish in front of Grievous. "And I will paint yours."

"Painting nails? I don't understand the need."

"Of course you don't…" Urboro opened the bottle. "It's to look pretty. Feel good about yourself. To catch someone's eye, make them notice you."

"Confidence? Like my face paint? But no one can see your toes under most circumstances." Grievous had a new thought enter her mind. She never had an opportunity to speak of such things with her other half siblings or other students at the academies she attended. "Do you think I'm pretty?"

"Your lover in bed can." Urboro winked at Grivy. "A girl has got to be prepared." At her question, Urboro stared at her. "Of course you're pretty. You got an adorable tail, a huge butt, your breasts aren't that big but so what, if you'd wipe off that face paint, I guarantee you'd have a date by the end of the day. I can give you some flirting pointers and---" She gasped. "We should go bar hopping. I can totally get you a guy with a shredded eight pack."

"Wait. Are you talking about sex?" Grievous tightened at her shoulders, her tail waging back and forth anxiously. Was her butt really that noticeable? Was it due to her tail? "I'm not well versed in such matters. Are you?"

"I'm dating a Hylian blacksmith who is built like a boulder." Urboro nearly purred. "Muscles and such a big dick. Size does matter you know, but also how they use it." Her jaw nearly dropped next. "You don't know about sex?! Wait... you haven't had sex before, have you?!" She nearly squealed. "Oh goodness, I'm so totally going to get you laid."

"B-b-but what about the life bond? Wait..." Grievous' mind raced, her thoughts unable stop herself from thinking information through, even for her own good. "Before I left, one on my older half siblings at the academy was caught in what an officer described to us as an 'oral act' with another student. They would have been punished, had they not discovered neither became overly attached. They thought it was a miracle and summarized it was due to us being half-bloods." She snapped out of her thinking when she saw Urboro only smile even more. "Wait! That doesn't mean I'm looking for sex right now! I must look so bizarre to the people of this land. Is it even that good?"

"We're halves, Grivy. You're half Dal, half Waku. I'm half Lorleidian, half Waku. The Hasai life bond doesn't apply to me." Urboro flipped back her hair in a showy manner. "So you're probably not bound by it either." She then giggled, "And bizarre? Grivy, anyone who is 'new' and 'unique' is translated as exotic. You'll have men chasing your tail. Literally." She then paused. "Unless you want a woman?"

"I, um, never gave that part of my life any consideration." Grievous paused, looking at the clear nail polish bottle. "... you never told me if its good or not."

"Yes, you silly, it is good." Urboro then instructed. "Now, hold still. Appearance is one thing, but adding a little accessory never hurt anyone." She expertly started to paint Grivy's nails. "Hrm. I think metallic purple is your color."

Holding still would have to come another day. From the corner of her eye, Grievous spotted a hand motion from behind the barn. If the Kikai Empire had drilled anything into her with her teachings at the military academy, it was military tactics and strategy. Not care for her own safety, Grievous dove past Urboro, causing nail polish to slip up her leg in stroke. With an open arm, Grievous lightly close lined her half sibling to the ground to safety as an electric ball skidded by her head, every hair standing on top as a result. It appeared she was to trust her instincts to move. The trajectory of the shot would have hit Urboro had she dived left or right instead.

Men in black armour from head to toe stepped out from cover, weapons for capture using slings or shock sticks drawn, but others had crossbows trained if more violent means were necessary. "DAL! GET ON THE GROUND!"

"EEEEEEKKK!!!" Urboro was not expecting a full tackle and released a loud 'oof' when she hit the ground, feet straight up in the air. When the ball of lightning sailed past the pair, Urboro knew that there was trouble. Either someone was after her or after Grivy or trying to hurt her father. More than likely, it was Grivy, but she hoped this could be resolved... peacefully and without electrocution. "Hold onto me!" Urboro instructed Grivy, "And hold your breath!"

With that, the earth opened and swallowed both of them.

Electric shots from slings could be heard sizzling against the earth, voices being garbled by the layer of dirt between them. "Encircle the house! She's not getting away."

Grievous did as she was told, however, being trapped fully under the earth was nothing like trying to breath under water. This was far darker and murkier than she'd like.

Outside, the Theron Elite wasted no time covering any exit that the house provided. Going from assassinations to bounty hunting was

It took nearly a full minute, but Grievous and Urboro emerged inside one of her mother's greenhouse's. Coughing, the Zemlja then apologized between breaths, "Sorry, it's COUGH been a while since--ACHOO! I had to do that."

"What about your siblings still back at the house? We have to go back. Where's father?" Grievous took deep breaths after having to hold it in a pinch.

"Mom has a COUGH emergency defense system of sorts." Urboro brushed some dirt off Grievous' clothes. "Oh wait, that's right, she didn't tell you about Venu'sa."

"A what?"

Back at the house, Kahli was waking up from the behest of one of his other children. "What is it?"

"Daddy, I think someone bad is outside." Zaltana was peering through the window, hugging her stuffed dragon. "Venu'sa isn't sleeping anymore."

"Let's get away from the window, shall we?" Chatima led his baby sister away from view.

"Dad, what's going on?" Huyana asked her father, exiting her bedroom. "Sakari and Satinka say that there's more Hasai outside."

Hasai? At his house? With his children here?! Kahli's eye grew with fury. He knew this was an inevitability with Grievous showing up and staying. No way in heaven or hell Zannah would allow the possibility of this secret to spread. He should have left sooner to see her, but with Zizi still gone, Kahli had a duty to look after his children. "Stay here kids."

Kahli tightened his fists as he went to his door. Sure enough, he saw vines slivering, but no attack made by the guardian as of yet. Theron trained their weapons on him from different areas, positioned around fence posts or trees, and Kahli paused, taking a deep breath to channel his energies for battle if necessary. "Get off my property."

Agent Hresvelg had a bow an arrow ready in his grip, shouting from behind the barn for cover, "Give us the girl Sir Kahli. We don't want any trouble."

"You coming here with weapons pointed at my house, at my children invites conflict. I don't care if you're special forces. I will burn you to cinders if you don't back away."

The Hasai looked to their field commander, unsure what to do. "Orders sir?"

"Do not engage. Sir Kahli! I think it would be best for everyone if we stayed calm and orderly. The Emperor values the girl’s life. This isn't an assassination."

"Then why did she send you now? The Theron are Zannah’s death squad."

Hresvelg paused at this statement. There was truth in that, but missions were a mission. "I have no reason to lie to you. My orders are my orders."

Before Kahli could start his eruption of fire to give them a warning, he felt his spine shudder from a collision of pain against him. The metallic punch of T0-D brought him to his knees. "Declaration: Agent. The target is not here. Search the plantations. She must have not gone far."

The Theron nodded, running off into pairs, only a few staying behind to give their commander support if need be.

Kahli grunted, turning his head to look up at the Android. "What the hell."

"Apology: I didn't want to have to hurt you, but it looked like an altercation was about to occur, and I'd like it if you didn't kill any of the pristine meatbags. Also, that was for failing to mention you had broken your arrangement with the Emperor. What were you thinking keeping the girl here? I know she's been staying here for a while."

The man couldn't kick the robot from under his feet, so he rolled away, immediately running between it and his house. "T0-D. Tell your men to stand down. I'm going to see Zannah regardless. But if you take the girl, we'll have problems."

"Curiosity: Oh? Like what?"

The Waku put a finger against his head, pushing his hair tightly. "Or I blow myself up."

~

Zizi had spent the last two weeks in the Forest Temple, meditating and listening to the earth. It calmed her. Between Skull Kid's pleasant company and reconstructing parts of the temple, she felt a bit like her old self. Actually, she felt younger, like she was relieved of burdens in some ways. If Skull Kid could work miracles, making her feel like a kid again was definitely one of his talents. It made her forget her worries and heartaches just for a little while. Though, she knew she had to face them at some point. So, the Zemlja sat in the middle of the temple and harnessed her magic, green energy floating throughout the structure, into the ground, and around her in the air. There, she conversed with Zemlja himself.

"You still don't think you can forgive him?"

"Why should I? He lied to me. Kept this from me."

"He couldn't reveal it. Hasai physiology is very different than Lorleidian."

"I know that! It's just... I've never felt this angry before. Not even at Vul'kar."

"You have a right to be angry." Zemlja offered wise advice. "But if you continue to let it eat at you, you will find nothing but misery. And here, you have been drowning in it."

"... I know."

"It's hard to let go of hurts sometimes, isn't it?"

"Very hard."

"Then perhaps you better focus on what you do have, before you lose it."

"I already feel like I've lost him."

"But have you?"

"... I don't know. Why would he even love me after I lashed out at him? Doubt him? ... I can't forget what he did."

"No, you won't, you never will. Though, you cannot blame all the blame on him."

"You're right... the blame is Zannah's."

"Correct, it is hers. Do you still wish to cause her this type of pain as well?"

"Yes. She hurt me. Hurt my family. I thought her a friend."

"Then you must be careful... and not be foolish. Patience is your friend."

"Lorleidians don't condone violence."

"And violence isn't needed."

"No. No it's not.”

"Be careful, Zizi, and leave your thoughts of Zannah behind for now. Your family needs you."

"... we'll talk again soon?"

"I'll be here if you need me."

And with that, Zizi was pulled out of her trance by the tugging of Venu'sa's activation.

"Skully!!!" Zizi hurried out of the temple to the earth. "I'll be back! Gotta go! I'll bring you some cookies next time!" Jumping into the open earth, the Zemlja moved through the ground as fast as the wind through the leaves. Kahli's distress... she could sense it. Something was wrong, something was very wrong, and she was not going to let anymore damage come to her family... and she arrived outside her home, right in front of Kahli. Was he going to kill himself? The woman tackled him with all her force, and pinned his arms to the side, sitting on him. "... Kahli..." She looked at him with a glare. "If you ever dare to do that again, I'll divorce you for sure."

Kahli fell to the ground, shocked by his wife suddenly appearing from nowhere to hit him to the ground. He stared at her for a moment, before slowly turning his attention at the more concerning issue. "Zizi... we have a more pressing matter."

T0-D's eye flashed between blue and red, his mind thinking over Kahli's threat. "Illogical: Your threat has no merit. If you kill yourself, not only will you fight against the life debt you owe, but you will be leaving behind your children. Not to mention, Hasai do not commit direct suicide. In all my years I've never seen such a thing possible. I don't believe that you could do it. Give us the girl or I can't promise people might get hurt in the process."

Zizi got to her feet, looking at the Hasai troops and T0-D. She had a giant frown on her face. This was, indeed, a more pressing matter, though she had to keep her in mind Zemlja's words. There would no room for being foolish. Zannah would know that she knew now. Nothing could change that.

"... I know about the girl, Tod." Zizi informed the robot. "And I know about the debt." She struggled to say the next words. "We may not have started off on the right foot, but... I thought we became friends after a while. Tell me," She took a sharp inhale. "That day you offered to help me bake cookies... were you just manipulating me like any other 'meatbag' so Zannah could stab me in the back?"

"Reflection: The Emperor instructed me to watch over you, yes. But it was I who wanted to take the time to get closer with you. Her order was very open ended Zizi. The Emperor and I knew that you'd never have agreed to the process. That you couldn't share Khali. Baking with you was a wonderful beginning to what I believe was your start for a friendship. However, I never expected to have doubts. I knew if you ever discovered the truth, you would not be able to accept it. And I dreaded to think on how you would view our relationship after due to me being told to keep you in the dark. Can you imagine? Me? Having dread? Illogical at surface level, and yet, a reality I must face. Here we are now. I'm sure that the girl told you everything now. Is it so bad though? They aren't treated badly. Every Hasai goes through military training. The new generation of Waku are merely being given extra training. They are still relatively young. They will be able to make other careers for themselves in the Empire if they so choose. Zannah did it for the greater good of the tribes and the Empire. Although, I can predict this hardly matters to you. Manipulation and being stabbed in the back were your choice of words was it not? I'm sure you feel this was merely a betrayal. I wonder how you look at me now. I wonder how you look at Kahli. Hurt no doubt. But can't you see logic was put forward? I'd gladly cook cookies with you again, yet I fear a 1 in 14,000 chance of that ever occurring again. Ah, I've spoken far too long. Kahli. You won't kill yourself, and I have my orders to bring the girl. Can you give me a logical explanation to not take her?"

"... so that's it. That's all it ever was. Boiling down to orders and commands and keeping secrets." Zizi was quiet for a moment before saying. "Friends don't treat friends like this, Tod. Orders or not. I don't know really what you feel or if you can even feel guilty. Dread? Sure, you felt that before when you had to fight a formidable foe. I remember, I was there when you fought Malik." She swallowed thickly, "Do you think I would have ever done this to Zannah? Or even to you, be it possible? ... then again, if Zannah never considered me a friend in the first place, just another pawn to be moved on her game board, I suppose my logic doesn't apply." The Zemlja was trying to keep tears from running down her face. "Everything was perfect. I was happy, my family was happy... and then this happened. And I... I can't begin to tell you how much I wanted to just... just scream. I wanted Kahli to hurt like I hurt. I lashed out at him, and I shouldn't have. I should have just kept my emotions in check, but I can't do that, Tod. I'm not... I'm not like Zannah. I'm not like you. I can't sacrifice one person for the whole. I want everyone to be okay and to be safe, and feel loved." Zizi then stated firmly. "And Grievous doesn't deserve at all to be treated like a tool. She's her own person. She deserves her own life. If she doesn't want to fight, if she doesn't want to go back, if she doesn't want to leave here, then she shouldn't have to. She's with family now, Tod. It doesn't matter that I'm not her mother, she's still mine in a way. I will protect her, she's innocent in all this. All she wanted was some answers. Does she deserved to be punished for that? She's a child." She asked the robot, trying to appeal to his sense of loyalty and regret. "Would you want me to drag you away from your family?"

Kahli stared at his wife, unable to find the words. All he had fill him was shame.

T0-D paused, raising a hand to his 'chin' to think. "Answer: The girl has a biological mother she lives with. She has hundreds of half siblings she knows at the academy. In more years, her training will be complete. What makes you so much more special? We all have a part to play Zizi. It is selfish to put yourself above the greater whole. Countries and Empires wouldn't be able to function if everyone was so selfish. You aren't her family. We'd be returning her to her real home. So, it is indeed different then if you were to try and take me away from my own family." His claw pointed towards Kahli. "Query: He is the father, but you are not the mother. This girl is not your responsibility. And my dread is a form of guilt I suppose. To have a friend has been eventful, joyful to certain receptors. It's nice to access my memory of these more joyful times. Now, I still see no reason to not follow my orders. Zannah holds her trust in subjects and in family. To her, friends cannot be a part of her life. Family she can pour her love into and know it is a bond only death can separate. Subjects, she has a loyalty to nurture her people and them in return give undying loyalty and respect. I do regret your pain Zizi Slatki. Zannah does to. But she did what she did for the greater good. I believe in her goals to bring prosperity to every subject of hers. As her family, and as her oldest subject, I have a duty to fulfil."

Kahli squeezed his wife’s hand. "Don't take the girl. I believe Zannah would find me to be a higher priority."

"Doubt: Why is that?"

"The life debt has lost its secrecy. It's chains around me are so much lighter. I believe that she'd want to speak to me to try and correct that, would she not?"

T0-D was still, calculating multiple possibilities to carry out next.

"I'm human, Tod. Humans are selfish, and my love is selfish, but in a good way. I don't care the Grivy isn't mine, she still showed up on my doorstep asking for help. That makes her my responsibility, even if Kahli doesn't want to acknowledge her." Zizi told the robot, literally shaking from grief and sorrow. "A good leader wouldn't try to hurt one of her subjects in this way. A good leader would consider what others want. A good leader would forget her stupid quest for power and conquest, and focus on her family and try to make friends with those who cared about her. Zannah is no leader... she is simply a manipulator." She asked him. "If Zannah doesn't want my friendship in her life, then she doesn't regret a single thing she's done. By the spirits, I was right about her this entire time, but I didn't want to see it. I wanted to believe Kahli about her, I wanted to believe you about her, but it's all dragon-shit. All Zannah cares about is power. That's the way it has always been." The Zemlja couldn't stop the tears now. "I doubt Zannah even cares about you, Tod. When has she ever asked what you want? I tried to amend my behavior towards you, I tried to treat you well, and you..." She choked on her words with a sob. "You tricked me. Zannah used Kahli. She threatened to take away my babies to get what she wanted. I tried so hard... so damn hard to believe in the better good of others, but it has done nothing but brought me pain and misery. Are you really going to make me lose faith in you too?"

"Reflection: I'm sure my soul is impure in your eyes. What I want is the betterment of the Empire I call home. The largest sacrifices require the strongest wills. And Zannah has steeled her will to take on any challenge. A good leader will sacrifice additional comforts to give her subjects all the essentials of living. A good leader uses her power for the betterment of those people. Zannah broke her friendships for the sake of bettering her people. She cared so deeply for her people that she made the heartbreaking choice to sacrifice her friendship with you. I calculate, given her condition, she might step down from her current position and elevate herself for the betterment of her people. I did trick you. I won't lie to you Zizi Slatki. Because I believed in her cause. Even if I didn't like the thought of seeing you hurt."

Kahli hugged his wife tightly, resting his head over her shoulder. With a kiss, he whispered into her ear. "Let me go. You can watch over Grievous while I find a way out of this debt."

So that was it... Tod admitted it. Both of them, Zannah and her robot, intentionally hurt her.

... what did she do to deserve this? What did her husband do? Her family?

"I don't want you to go." Zizi sobbed, holding onto Kahli tightly. "I want you to stay here. I want things to go back to how they were."

"I can try to make things right. You have to give me that chance. Please, I beg of you Zizi."

"Statement: I am honestly sorry to see I hurt you Zizi. Kahli, do you consent to seeing the Emperor?"

The Waku looked over his shoulder, hurt and angry. "Only if you call off your hunt for my daughter."

"Don't go, I don't want her to hurt you. I've already hurt you and I shouldn't have, and I don't want to lose you, I don't care if all your other kids show up on our doorsteps, please don't leave me. If Zannah takes you away, I'll be lost." Zizi begged her husband. "No, you're not." Zizi took a shaky breath. "You just told me, Tod. You believed in Zannah. You didn't believe in me."

"Additional Statement: Those two things aren't mutually exclusive in my eye. I see now, however, it would be illogical to try and change your mind. Goodbye Zizi Slatki."

Kahli gave his wife a peck on the cheek, rising away from her. "I won't let her. You have my love on that."

"You promise?" Zizi looked so... so defeated. So heartbroken. So sad. "I can't... trust her anymore."

"I promise to you. I promise on my unending love for you. She won't take me away from you."

Meanwhile, at the greenhouse, Theron guards finally found their target. On the left and right flank, two cornered Grievous and Urboro. They had crossbows ready to fire with the graze of a finger. "Don't. Move."

Agent Hresvelg entered centre stage, taking off his helmet. Grievous expressed surprise at seeing him. "Teacher?"

The man's purple eyes looked sad and tired to see her. "Why did it have to be you Grievous. You had such promise."

"I wanted freedom my mother wouldn't give me. That the Empire couldn't give me."

"That why you decided to come specifically to Hyrule? To your birth father?"

"I wanted to see him too. Teacher. I'm not going back."

"Grievous. You're one of my most outstanding students. You've shown so much potential, and you want to throw it all away? You could be a great commander if you put your mind to it."

"But that's not the life I want." She planted her feet, grinding her fingers into her palm as she made a fist. "I want to fight my own battles. I want to fly where ever I want. I want a parent who loves me. I want siblings I can actually who aren't so laser focused in following the Empire. I- I want to learn what sex is like after going to bars with my sister. " She unexpectedly gripped Urboro's hand, wanting to feel her support.

Hresvelg frowned, perhaps a little disgusted by her behaviour. "Because of your desertion, the Empire wants you out of sight and out of mind. You might have been able to have been able to have the future you wanted in ten more years with hard work. You were always a serious student. You took your training seriously. You didn’t have time for foolish behaviour. It's why you were given the name Grievous."

"But that's because you all raised me that way. It’s all I knew. That life might be acceptable to the others, but not to me."

The agent drew a flint lock, cocking the gun in the direction of Grievous’ heart. "I have to ask you to come with us. At this range, you can't do your little disappearing act. And I truthfully don't want to hurt you or the girl. I will give you the count to three. 1."

Grievous didn't move, her body spreading out to protect Urboro from fire.

"2."

Just before he got to three, another Theron appeared behind him. "Sir. The mission is being called off by General T0-D."

"What?"

"We are to leave with Sir Kahli back to the Empire to deliver him directly to the Emperor."

"I see..." Hresvelg put his pistol away back into his holster. "Well Grievous. I don't know when I will see you again, but I hope you are serious about your current life choices."

"I am."

Seemingly satisfied, Agent Hresvelg turned to leave. The Theron at the sides disappeared as silently and as quickly as phantoms.

"Wait, they're taking Dad?!" Urboro looked a bit afraid. Her mother always warned her that Zannah could have a horrible temper. If they were taking her father away, what would happen? "Grivy, what's going on?!"

“I don’t know. I really don’t know.” Both the girls picked themselves up and ran to the house. When they arrived, however, all the Hasai were gone. All that remained was a distraught Zizi lying on her knees, with other children gathering with confusion.

Manaco had rushed from work to his parents' house when he heard the rumors of Hasai being present in Hyrule. When he saw his mother on the ground, and no indication of his father's presence, he feared the worst. Either Zannah was going to kill his sire or keep him prisoner... or worse.

"What should we do, Manaco?" Keira asked her elder brother. "They took Dad. That robot was here too. It must be serious if Tod was here."

"I... I don't know what to do." Manaco told his sister honestly. "I think that the only thing we can do is wait."

“Wait? What about the well being of our father? Aren’t you fighters?” Grievous questioned, guilt heavy on her mind. It was becoming clearer to her that he took her place. But why?

"Grivy, there's five of us that are of age. We are all good fighters, and we can defend ourselves, but taking on an army is not within our capabilities." Ahusaka informed his sister with a heavy sigh. "Even we know when to admit we're no match for a battle."

"Unfortunately, he's right." Manaco admitted. "We... we need to take care of Mom for now, and just wait. That's all we can do without endangering the rest of our family."

Grievous’ tail curled low, her feelings on the matter heavy. Turning to Zizi, she barely got the words out with a steady tone. “I’m sorry I came here. I’m sorry they took him away. I’m sorry I broke you two up. Kahli is a good man. He loves his children. He loves you. I shouldn’t have come here if I had known you’d be hurt so deeply.”

"It's not your fault, Grivy." Zizi felt so... hollow. Empty. "You're not responsible for this... Zannah is."

"I'm going to take Mom inside," Manaco told his siblings. "Will all of you try to calm Venu'sa down? She doesn't need to be grabbing a stranger and eating them."

"We can do that." Urboro assured her brother. "Take care of Mom."

"Grivy, we could use your help watching after the younger ones." Miku asked. "Do you mind?"

“Of course. It’s the least I can do. Miss Zizi? You’ll give Father another chance will you not?”

"I will, I just... it's hard to process all of this." Zizi said very softly. "I'm so exhausted..."

"That's okay, Mom. You can rest. We'll take care of everything." Manaco lifted his Mom into his arms, carrying her. He had never seen her so tired before, not even in the hot sun working with plants. He was worried, and it showed. "We'll keep Urboro away from the stove too."

"I heard that, you fu---fudge-head." Urboro had to catch her language in front of her smaller siblings.

Grievous turned to find the little ones. She hoped she knew what her father was doing. In so many ways, today had taken so many losses.

________________________________________________________________

Previous Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/612492318747082752/burnt-heart-ch-5-reflection

Next Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/612606875698085888/burnt-heart-ch-7-burning-bridges-repairing

Annuciata hated traveling by boat. She preferred her massive Sky Gliders. The machines easily sailed through the air without a care in the world. Bad weather was always a hitch, but luckily there was a safety mechanism for landing and maneuvering through violent storms. It was easy to announce her arrival to the Kikai Empire with a fleet of Sky Gliders in grandeur with flowing banners. Once near the palace, the captain landed the machine and rolled out the 'red carpet' for the queen. She strutted down the walkway with her little one at her side.

"All hail Queen Annuciata and Princess Eleonora!"

The Hasai guards bowed respectfully to the Queen as she walked the red carpet. In return, some advisors announced the arrival of their own leader. “All hail Emperor Zannah! We welcome Queen Annuciata and Princess Eleonora.”

The Emperor smiled graciously to Annuciata as she made her way closer. Both Prince Griffith and Princess Athens stood at their mother’s side, but just behind her. Each was excited to meet their newest sibling, yet respectfully held their tongues. Zannah’s voice was smooth and clear. “Queen Annuciata. Marvellous to see you once more.”

Appearances were important, so for now, Annuciata had to refrain from snogging Zannah within an inch of her life. That, and she had a little one in a sling wrapped around her chest. The little princess was a few months old, and was just a beautiful as her mother. She had dark emerald eyes and blonde hair, and little dimples. With a graceful courtesy, the queen smiled at the three.

"Empress Zannah, Prince Griffith, Princess Athens... it is so good to see all of you again."

“Ah... hello little princess Eleonora.” Zannah peered down with her golden eyes, smiling at the little baby. “Was your trip well Queen Annuciata?”

As they walked through the palace, Zannah’s children were very well behaved in keeping up appearances, despite the wish to explode with excitement.

"The Sky Gliders proved to be less nauseating rather than traveling by Sea Surfers," Annuciata's servant followed closely behind her, carrying her luggage and a cart of gifts. "I do recall you had a rather unpleasant experience of the same manner with one of the Land Riders."

“I prefer the sky myself.” Soon enough, the royals found themselves in Zannah’s guest sweet. “Thank you for carrying Annuciata’s luggage. May you excuse us?”

Once the servants left the guest suite, Annuciata threw her arms around Zannah and kissed her deeply. "You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that."

Zannah swirled her tongue with her lovers, one arm carefully reaching to squeeze Annuciata’s ass. “I’ve missed you too as well. My love, your child is adorable darling. She looks so much like you.”

Both the royal twins didn’t mind their moms making out. Once they patiently waited for them to finish, they were glued to their newest sibling.

“May we see here?”

“I always wanted another sister.”

"Did you really think I forgot about you two?" Annuciata bent down and hugged Griffith and Athena tightly and kissed both their cheeks. "Would you like to hold her? This is Eleonora, named after my mother. She was known as the mighty, beautiful lioness of Danjur. She was a captain in the navy before she married my father."

“Mother taught us vigorous lessons on how to hold and take care of a baby.” Athena, sure enough, carefully held Eleonora properly.

Griffith carefully felt her step-sisters hair. “Mothers? Would you like us to take our sister so you might embrace your love?”

"Not before you open your presents," Annuciata led Athena and Griffith over to the elaborately wrapped gifts. Inside of Athena’s was a new wardrobe from Danjur composed of the finest silks. There were flying dragons stitched into the fabric with golden trim and deep red in color. Griffith's present was full of knowledge, containing books of fighting history, tactics of the Danjuran navy, and of course, a single piece of clothing; a brand new robe with designs of ancient Kikai warriors. "I hope you like them. Eleonora was most helpful in selecting the colors. She has good taste, like her mother."

“We love them.” Both twins were happy with all their gifts, speaking in union once more.

Zannah smiled, brushing both their heads. “If you’re careful, you may run along with your new baby sister. Is that alright with you love?”

"Take Eleonora's bag. It has her diapers, blanket, and a few toys." Annuciata reminded them. "You'll have to bring her back in an hour for feeding."

“Understood. We won’t fail your trust.” Griffith bowed, carefully walking out with the baby while Athena took the supplies.

Zannah locked the door behind them, turning to her Queen with a grin. “They were highly excited by the news you were pregnant, insisting they be taught on how to properly care for a baby.”

"That is so cute." Annuciata gushed over what Zannah told her of the twins. "I'm sure they will be the best brother and sister to Eleonora. She will be happy having an amazing pair of siblings to play with her and teach her." She then told her lover. "And of course, I did not forget about you. I brought you a gift as well."

“Oh? Do show your Emperor what you brought my Queen~”

"Unfortunately, not want you're probably hoping for, but something nice still," Annuciata strutted over to the largest present and pulled the ribbon, undoing the bow. The sides of the present fell to reveal a beautiful jade sculpture of Zannah on her throne with a dragon wrapped around her. "Well? Do you like it?"

Zannah threw a hand to her mouth to quiet a gasp. “Annuciata! It’s marvellous! How did you accomplish this feat?! Such a passionate declaration of love.”

"You know I used to study mechanical engineering before I became queen," Annuciata then gestured to the sculpture. "Wasn't too hard to design a machine that would carve the stone exactly how I wished it. I ordered the jade from Al-Daida's mines and then set to work on this myself. It gave me something to do while I was on bedrest."

“... You never cease to surprise me Annuciata.” Zannah pulled her in for slow, deep loving kiss.

"Ah, I'm sorry to disappoint you, my love, but... well... I might have to wait a while longer." Annuciata halted Zannah's kissing. "I would like nothing more than to make love to you, but... I'm still healing." She undid the front of her glamorous dress and gently pulled it down to show Zannah her c-section scar. "Let's just say Eleonora was a little too big for me to deliver."

Zannah’s eyes widened, but no sound of shock left her. Instead, she merely traced a hand along the scar. “I see... I’m merely happy you both survived. You can’t let me simply kiss you? Or am I too much of a tease that way dear?”

"You are a tease, and you know it, don't play coy." Annuciata raised an eyebrow at her lover, knowing how sly Zannah could be. "I wouldn't mind a soft kiss, but unfortunately, I won't be able to make love until one more week. The scar tissue has to heal all the way."

“I understand.” Zannah softly rubbed her lovers belly gently.

A knock came at the door, followed by two more. “Query: May I enter?”

“Annuciata, perhaps you can be part of my council with Tod?”

"Though as soon as Wednesday hits, I'll be happy to have you all to myself." Annuciata winked at Zannah and then when T0-D announced his arrival, the queen inquired, "Council?"

“I have been thinking of a necessary expansion to the Empire. T0-D has led his calculations and opinions, but perhaps another set of human eyes and mind can be of use.”

"An expansion?" Annuciata asked. "Like another island? A factory? I'd be happy to look over the blueprints."

“T0-D, come in.”

The android unlocked the door with his finger acting like a pic lock. “Greetings: Wonderful to see you Queen Annuciata.”

“I already have acquired a new island recently. Quite large in size. Tod, bring up the life forms we’ve brought into our glorious Empire.”

T0-D nodded, and from his eye, a holographic image like a blue shimmering ghost appeared. The first images were rather short humanoids standing at 5.1 on average with monkey like tails, sharp fangs, spiky hair and thick beards on the males. “These are a people know as Dals. Primitive, yet skilled smiths, workers, and have a few excellent fighters. They gladly joined the Empire in exchange for protection from a sea monster that forced their tribes to make sacrifices to its hungry.”

The next image was of a scaly winged beast. They were the size of an average bathroom, so not terribly big. They had legs and wings, yet no arms. “On this island, I am also proud to say we’ve started taming local Wyvern’s. I know they’ll never be the scale or size of Hyrule or Lorliedi’s dragons, but they are making excellent mounts and companions. Great nimble flyers too due to their size and balance. The island is large enough to colonize my people and share recourses with the locals. I’m going to finish a city there soon. What do you think?”

Annuciata carefully looked over the specs for the island. While she was glad Zannah was expanding her empire, there were still a few red flags here and there. The queen pointed to the far side of the isle. "Here are the cliffs," She suggested. "You'd be better to colonize the Wyverns there instead of the inland. They would have a natural vantage point, and probably be happier. Since the Dals are primitive smith workers, they need to be away from the heart of the forest. If it would catch fire, then all your work would be for naught." The Danjuran queen then motioned to a small peninsula on the isle. "And here would be a great area to build a dock for import and exports. You'd need to check the depth of the coral and the surrounding sea life," And for a last point, Annuciata said, "And this area, in the middle of the island, this would be wonderful for development. It's rich with rivers, and most connect to the sea. You could have another city here."

“Thank you. All great points. Tod, log them for my lords to carry out.” Zannah rose up, going to the window to look down at her Empire. “Annuciata. The matter on my mind isn’t more land, but my people. More specifically, my tribes. The Waku in particular.”

"The Waku?" Annuciata thought for a moment and then replied. "Oh, Zizi's husband, Kahli. He's Waku, correct?" She looked momentarily puzzled. "You're going to... give their descendants an island?"

“In a way. But first, I need him to produce more Waku on a grand scale.” Zannah said so matter of fact in a monotone voice with no confusion or stifle of clarity.

"Wait, you want Kahli to be a... donor?" Annuciata wanted clarification.

“I do.”

"Well, that is something you'd have to discuss with him." Annuciata did not look too convinced. "You do realize he's married to Zizi."

“I do. However, Kahli is not a citizen of Hyrule by legal decree. King Covarog does not allow it. He is a citizen of the Kikai Empire, though. What’s more, he has a life debt to me. Hasai must follow the commands of those they are indebted to. It is in our... coding, if you will.” Zannah carefully pick and choose her wordings. “I can’t force Kahli to physically have sex with other Hasai, but I can have him give me samples of his bloodline to disperse to individuals I deem strong to carry a child.”

"I'm... not sure this is the best idea, Zannah." Annuciata was honest with her lover. "If you hurt the sister of the queen, it could cause tension with your alliance. Not only that, but Zizi helped save your island. While I know the two of you don't have the best relationship, she does still consider you a friend."

“This goes beyond simple emotional attachments. This is to rebuild an entire culture. Zarazu would do the same if one of her tribes was reduced to a single finger she could count on her hand. There is already tension due to the boar king. With enough expansion, Hyrule won’t even be a necessary ally should they choose to depart due to foolish pride. If Zizi treated me with more respect, Tod with more respect, then perhaps she would have been included. Instead she thinks she can mock me, mock you behind my back without me knowing. Friend? Bah. Such nonsense.”

"Zannah, Zizi has never mocked me. She respects you; I honestly think she just doesn't like the robot." Annuciata then reminded her lover. "I will not go to war with Hyrule if this idea of yours cause strife. I told you and Queen Zarazu of that notion long ago before we started our relationship."

“No. She fears me. Kahli told me himself. And why? Because I happen to be the most powerful woman in the world? Because I took charge in saving my people?” Zannah scowled, looking out her window. “I don’t plan war with Hyrule over this plan to replenish the Waku tribe from the effects of genocide. Besides, Lord Malik and King Covarog, despite personal feelings, would never break off treaties due to some tantrum Zizi might throw if she ever discovered my architecture in rebuilding life Annuciata.”

"I won't stop you from carrying out your plan, though... I would suggest you not tell Zizi of it. Or have it where Kahli cannot tell her." Annuciata sighed, thinking this would not end well in the future. "She gave your island life because she wanted to do the right thing. Don't make her take it away."

“She knows I could burn what’s left of her precious island home left to ash if she dared try anything so foolish. Besides. She is a life giver, not a destroyer. The little green thumb might take life on a smaller scale as to preserve her own mortality, but she does not have the character to kill hundreds at a whim. But of course, as to give me less of an ear full, she will be kept in the dark.”

"I won't lie to you, love, I don't believe this is the best idea. Retaliation might be due later." Annuciata then placed her hands on Zannah's shoulders. "And even if Zizi fears you, I doubt she would ever try to hurt you. Just please be careful of your plan?"

“I will. The children will be kept on one of the colonized islands, to be raised far from the eye of Hyrule, and Zizi.” Zannah held Annuciata’s hand for support. “Some ideas can change the world for the better. But you have to steel your heart sometimes to make them work.”

"I understand, though... I just don't like hurting people." Annuciata then asked. "Please never let Zizi find out if you're going to do this. A woman scorned, well... hell hath no fury."

“Well, then Zizi would be far behind. My fury has burned brightly for years.”

Zannah turned to T0-D, tilting her head with a light sigh. “Tod. Go tell Kahli to come to the imperial palace.”

“Confirmation: As you wish master.”

Zannah started to disrobe, looking for her more powerful, armour attire. “Kahli and Zizi are actually here at the island on vacation. This no time like the present as they say.

"I still think this is a bad idea... just be careful, Zannah. While you have much fury yourself, Zizi is the earth sage." Annuciata kissed the Empress' cheek. "While fire can burn plants, earth can smother a fire." She then picked up the edges of dress. "I'm going to check on Eleonora. My breasts are about to burst. I'll see you in a bit?"

And her lightning would strike down like fury from god herself to make a final killing blow. “So soon? But the children just left. You sure?”

"I think it's just nerves, my love. I still don't like to be away from Eleonora for too long." Annuciata was honest with the Empress. "I trust Athena and Griffith with her, though it's like... this sense that I have. I have to see her and check on her or else, I feel unease. I suppose it's part of being a new mother."

Zannah smiled lightly, giving Annuciata a nod and kiss, now fully naked to the Queen mid dressing. “I understand that feeling well. Go see your daughter.”

"I'll return shortly." And before she exited the room, she made sure to give Zannah a harsh slap on the buttocks. "And that was for being a tease earlier." With that she strutted out of the bedroom.

Zannah growled lovingly back as the Queen made her way out with T0-D. Once alone with her own thoughts, however, she felt a bitter cold in her heart. The choices she’d come to shortly make would kill any chance of continued friendships... not that she ever has had true friends. Allies, advisors, rivals, enemies, a lover, family, but never friends. For the Empire, she would steel her heart and mind.

~

T0-D was rather quick in arriving at Kahli’s get away home. Only took an hour to sprint to the West side of the island. With a knock, he awaited compliance. “Statement: Kahli. Are you home? The Emperor requires your private attention.”

"You are being very naughty, you beast," Zizi giggled as Kahli kept kissing down her throat while she was trying her best to fix a cake. Yet, her husband, between nibbles on her neck, kept stealing cake batter. The two of them were celebrating Zarazu's latest gift to them; Hylian citizenship for Kahli. Her sister finally was able to convince Covarog to pull his head out of his ass and sign the official statement. "You have two sons, and three daughters, are you asking for another child---EEEK!" She jumped when he pinched her backside. "Okay, let's continue this in the bedroom---" And of course, there was an interruption. Her least favorite interruption from her least favorite mechanical nuisance. "No, he's not." she replied in an annoyed tone from inside the house. "Go away."

“Observation: I know you’re about to have sex. Your meat bag ritual can wait.”

Kahli had been cautious of his duel citizenship, not knowing how much validity it held. But the look he gave Covarog and him a geeky, yet meekly giving one of defeat in return was incredibly satisfying to relish. Perhaps Covarog’s unseen emotional blowout was the reason Zizi pushed for a vacation out to the Kikai Empire. At the Android’s interruption, Kahli sighed as well. “My dear Emperor can wait a little while, can she not?”

“Annoyance: An order is an order Kahli.”

The Waku walked to the door, getting his shoes tied.

"You'll come back as soon as you're done, right?" Zizi walked to the door with her husband. "Zarazu offered to look after our children until we return in a few days. Until then, I'd love to have you all to myself." She purred at Kahli, giving him a deep smooch on the lips. "Don't keep me waiting long."

“Of course, my dear. I’ll be back in a flash, so the expression goes.”

T0-D looked around inside the house, curious about their living arrangements. To be honest, he wasn’t impressed. “Assistance: Would you care for help with your baking, Zizi Slatki?”

"...? You? Bake?" Zizi wondered what foolish notion this was. She personally did not care for the robot. Yet, today, she was in a good mood. She supposed she could tolerate his company while Zannah spoke to Kahli. "Very well. If you'd like to help, I'm not going to turn down assistance. At least you won't eat all my batter like he does." She waved goodbye to Kahli. "Come on, you can help mix."

“Statement: Oh honey. I can do much more than mix.”

"Honey? Using pet names now? ... I'd ask if your wiring was messed up because this sounds too good to be true." Zizi motioned for Zizi to follow her over to the kitchen. "I don't suppose you know Zannah's favorite? Or Annuciata's? I heard that she was visiting and wanted to do something nice for them. Annuciata just had Eleonora a couple months ago, and a new baby is always cause to celebrate."

Kahli's journey to the imperial palace was about two and half an hours by horse, maneuvering his way through mountainous jungle path to reach the central territory. The Imperial Capital was a gigantic walled city now with its construction completed. Inside citizens of the Empire did industrial work, went to academies for learning, or trained in military drills. The Imperial Palace itself was a massive mansion, the size of two dozen city blocks in area sitting atop the mountain top with its own walls and gates present. By now, Kahli knew where to journey. Arriving at the throne room, Zannah awaited Kahli, giving him a smile. He in turn bowed respectfully. "My Emperor."

The Emperor sate on her silver throne, looking down at all who approached her. "Rise Kahli. I trust you and your wife are well."

"We are Emperor Zannah."

"Good. We won't waste one another's time, as I know trek amongst the island can be long on foot. I have summoned you here to give you a glorious task. The repopulation of the Waku tribes."

Kahli's eyes widened, surprise and shock being rare to him. Quickly, he narrowed his gaze, unsure how she would accomplish such a feat. "Zannah, I am all I know of my people left."

"I am acutely aware." She shot a pointer finger at him with the speed and intensity of an arrow. "You Kahli. You will repopulate them."

That surprised the man greatly. Kahli shook his head, even growling back at Zannah. "I have a wife."

"Kahli. We must all make sacrifices in service of the Empire. I made the sacrifice of my body to carry my children for the sake to carry on the royal line. You think you better than your Emperor?”

He shook his head once again, not meaning to be insulting. "No. I never did. But I can't do this thing. My bond to Zizi is the same bond you share with Annuciata. I cannot lay my hands on another woman." Turning to leave, he shook his head to cast away his inner disgust at the thought. Having his people back was something he never cared for. The dead could stay dead. "I can't do it."

"Kahli Slatki! Do you forget the life debt you owe me?" Zannah's words cut Kahli's departure clean in half, freezing his feet to the floor.  "I spared your life when you came to kill me. In return, because of my generosity I allowed you to met Zizi. It was my will that allowed you to find love. It was my design that gave you the power of Exodrum. Now turn around, and take your place. Now."

She spoke to him in a low, scolding voice, lightly pointing her finger for him to take his place. A psychological command, a mental force in Kahli's soul compelled him to obey. Kahli turned around, his fingers squeezing into his palms, nearly bleeding them with his nails. "I cannot physically touch another woman Emperor. The mental strain alone-"

"Will be bypassed altogether. Kahli, you will simply provide the seed. I have planned this well." Their golden eyes stared one another down, a mental battle taking place between them. "Do you know what they did to me? Once I was forced to select a mate, doctors took a turkey baster, a turkey baster of all things, and they forcibly injected me. You see, we lacked proper medical equipment during the first decade after the war. I had to carry two children, children that nearly killed me at child birth, all for the sake of tradition. All you will need to do is be a provider of a sample."

"What then?" Kahli's chest felt heavy, his mind numbing him from lashing out or running away. A life debt was a part of honour, and honour was practically coded into the DNA of Hasai. He was compelled to hear her out.

"What then? You will have the benefit of never seeing the children. I know this necessary act would never fly with your stubbornly emotional wife."

"You would break her trust?"

"But not yours. Tell me Kahli? Am I breaking any code of ethics you hold? Any honour? Do you fail to see the significance of this project?"

Kahli searched deep, wanting to spit the most vile bile at her. Yet all he found was the truth. "No..."

"As an order, you will never reveal this project to any other living soul, let alone your wife. This is the command of your Emperor."

"I will obey." The most defiance Kahli held was a small, weak growl.

"Kahli. You are my subject. You are the future of the Hasai people within the Empire. Waku, Skorge, and all others in unity. Imagine that future. A tribe that could once again fuel the might of the Empire by giving it its spirit back. This is your role in the Empire Kahli. The resurrector. Not the killer."

Zannah truly believed her cause was just, and Kahli somehow knew she wasn't doing this out of spite, or pure cruelty. He sighed, already feeling the burden of keeping this secret from his wife even before he began. "How long must I do this?"

"Your life debt will be repaid when you help give birth to 1,579 new Waku." Kahli stared at her stunned, but Zannah simply continued. "Those are the amount of lives that were left when you came to assassinate me in the Empire. 1579 lives that'd been thrown to chaos and perished without my leadership. Once that task has been complete, you will have no further obligations to me, except to fight for the Empire in times of war."

"Zannah, that will take years. I can't-"

"You will. Or perhaps you will consider giving me all of your children once they reach the age of fifteen?"

"No! Anything but that!"

Zannah nodded, raising a palm for Kahli to be still. "Then you will comply. Your offspring will be taken to the colony islands where you and Zizi will never have to worry about them. Now, you will begin the process immediately, Kahli Slatki. I am sorry if this brings you any distress. I truly am. But this is for the greater good of the Kikai Empire."

A doctor in a white mask made herself know. With the rest of her medical equipment, Kahli couldn't tell what tribe she hailed from.

"This is Doctor Mercellus. She is one of five who will know the true origin of this plan. Accompany her, and by the time you are done, I will have invited Zizi over for a dinner."

"Yes, Emperor Zannah..." Kahli could barely remember what came next. He followed the doctor in a mental haze, arriving to a medical facility. She left, telling him to drop his pants and to fill the vials best he could. Next thing he knew he felt Zizi shaking his arm as they were in the palace dining hall. "What?"

"Kahli?" Zizi looked concerned. Her husband had been out of it since she arrived at the palace. There had been word sent to their home that Kahli would be occupied longer than usual. She figured it was paperwork or something tedious of the sort. "Are you sure you feel all right?" She put her hand on his forehead. He felt... clammy. "Are you feeling ill?" She whispered to him. "We don't have to stay for dinner if you don't feel up to it."

"Huh? Oh... No, I'm fine. The journey here and all the running around took me out of it for a moment." Kahli smiled, sounding like his normal self. A little dark, but honest.

"...? If you say so." Zizi still sounded worried.

"It's been quite a day for all of us," Annuciata spoke as she sipped on water, not drinking wine or fancy alcoholic beverages since she was still breastfeeding. "If you need to retire, we understand, don't we, Empress?" She turned to her lover. "After all, you know about how it is nice to have a break from the usual everyday life."

Zannah looked to Zizi, raising an eyebrow as she bit into a cookie. "You and Tod truly made these?"

"Conformation: I amazed the little Zemlja. Together, the kitchen was no match for our combined skill." Was the first time he called her by her tribe title, not opting for meatbag.

"He's actually pretty good at being an amazing helper in the kitchen. Though I told him we really didn't have to count how many chocolate chips were in a pound, but he insisted." Zizi told the Empress with a wide smile. "Who knew? Baking helped us turn over a new leaf. He's not too bad. I guess he views me as I view him. Tolerable. Right, Tod?"

"These are a delight, mmm." Annuciata nibbled on a cookie. "You should go open a bakery together."

Kahli stared at the cookie for a while. The look he received when he glanced at Zannah told him to enjoy his life. That this changed nothing between any of them. He nodded, taking a bite. "Hmmm. Incredible my dear."

"Too bad you can't eat of these." Zizi noted. "Makes me feel a bit guilty that you put in all the work and can't enjoy the outcome."

"At least you enjoyed making them?" Annuciata asked the robot. "You do feel 'joy', right?"

T0-D looked down to Zizi, his fingers tapping together in contemplation. There was suddenly a part of him that regretted making sure she stayed put at her home. It took only an instant to calculate his feelings. He was allowed to regret it, but for Zannah's vision, he'd do anything required. "Statement: You've never felt bad before for me. No need to start now. I feel joy in knowing that you enjoy the pleasantries of food."

"At least you two have called a truce." Annuciata remarked. "That's for the best."

"Like I said, he's more so tolerable now. Must be because Kahli and I have five children that can drive us up the wall sometimes." Zizi laughed. "But we do love them so much. Manaco, Ahusaka, Keira, Urboro, and Miku are all growing so fast. They'll be fine men and women one day. Just like your little Eleonora."

"She's already demanding." Annuciata mused. "Squeals when it's time for feeding or cries when she doesn't get her way."

Zannah chuckled, drinking mango juice to be fair to her lover. "I don't know if I'll ever have more children myself."

"Kahli has always wanted a big family, so we'll see if we have anymore." Zizi held her husband's hand. "Though the most important thing is that we are happy."

"Of course, my dear. You are my treasure." But after today, the weight of how many children Kahli would have weighed with the force of a sleeping giant on his mind. One that he wondered would ever awake to cause tragedy.

________________________________________________________________

Next Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/611234309094948864/burnt-heart-ch-2-trust-thunderstruck

Zizi was listening to the plants. It was odd to hear the leaves almost harmonize with the machines, but loved to take note of their whispers. Every plant here was part of a massive interwoven chain almost, every piece of greenery sharing with its neighbor. She ran her hands across a few flower petals, watching how the blooms responded to her touch.

"It is... but I still think our little treehouse beats it, don't you think?" Zizi kissed Kahli's cheek.

"I'd agree. More cozy." Kahli snuggled his nose with hers when he suddenly groaned. He tried his best to keep his wife's attention away, but he knew for a fact that she'd hear the clanks. T0-D was viewing the machinery and the plants, scanning the area for documentation.

Zizi was just about to suggest looking from plants from the Kikai Empire, but nothing could stop the plants from alerting her to the 'walking gears' nearby.

"... are you fucking kidding me?" The Zemlja growled under her breath. "Is he following us?"

Kahli gulped, feeling the rage radiating off his wife. "I do not know..."

T0-D turned to them and waved from afar. "Greetings: Kahli. Wonderful news. The people of Danjur have plants that have been previously thought extinct from the original homeland."

"That's wonderful news." Zizi said through gritted teeth, then tugged on Kahli's arm lightly. "Let's go to a different section."

"I want to see these closer." Kahli went closer to the Android, pulling his wife with him. The plants included some insect eaters, as well as beautiful red spiraled flowers.

"Observation: These red spiraled plants, the Colalilelalo, were symbols of happiness, associated with the Waku tribes."

Kahli was starting to take real interest now. "Really?"

"Statement: When they are about to die, burning them causes the most pleasant smell, according to others."

Kahli asked her to be civil to the robot and she would attempt to do so. Though, that did not mean she had to like him. Zizi personally wanted to bury him so far in the ground, that he could never dig himself out of it. As T0-D explained some of the facts about the native plants of the Kikai Empire, Zizi carefully ran her fingers through the greenery. It was full of life, though she could feel the traces of its true home. The blood red flowers almost looked like fire dancing.

"What are these purple ones?"

"Answer: Those are Aztela. Carnivorous plants that feed both on sunlight, water, and flesh. A personal favourite of mine. They feed mostly on flies and other insects, but they have the biting force of a crocodile. Foolish explorers have lost fingers, and even a hand from sticking them inside the mouths of these joyful little bundles."

Ziz thought the Aztela sounded similar to Ve'nusa, the Jawstalk Mantrap, a carnivorous plant which could swallow a grown man whole. However, the Jawstalk Mantrap was much larger than these flowers and usually burrowed in the ground, laying flat, waiting on their prey to walk over the perfectly laid trap. Ve'nusa also had vines connected to the stalk, instead of just multiple leaves.

"These are beautiful."

"Statement: Yes. They are. It fills my cores with nostalgia to see them again. Oh Zannah will be so happy to know that their are living samples to be transferred and regrown on the new homeland."

Zizi still said nothing and just listened. It would be difficult to keep these plants alive over such a long journey. The transportation would have to be extremely careful. The seeds, however, would be much easier to take back to the Kikai Empire and plant instead of trying to move the entire flower.

"Observation: It's fascinating how the people of Danjur have fused their technology to feed the plants in this greenhouse in a symbiotic relationship. These plants could not live with out them, and the machinery would have no purpose without the plants. All so that beings like you and I can enjoy the smaller lifeforms before us."

The plantations in Hyrule did not require machinery due to the magic of the Zemlja tribe. Windmills were as close as machinery came to grind grain. Still, it got Zizi to thinking... were machines going to replace magic? The thought unnerved her.

"Query: Zizi Slatki. Don't you think it's wonderful that this machinery keeps these little flowers alive?"

"Yes and no." Zizi answered as the robot continued his scanning. "Without the machine, the plants would die and without the plants, the machine would not be needed. Plants have always thrived on their own, without the interference of machines or magic. I use my magic to help the plants grow faster and larger to feed my people, but regardless of my magic, the plants would still survive."

"Statement: And the machinery would be used to power something else. I suppose each could find its life else wear if needed."

"Perhaps, though it feels unusual to me." Zizi was not trying to fight, just speaking how she felt. "Lorleidians do not need machines like this to care for our plants. We have always had magic. Then again, Danjur has some magic, but not much, so there is a need."

"Statement: It would seem that machines hold just as much value as magic when it comes to taking care of fragile life."

"Magic is a living force that flows through everything, a machine..." Zizi trailed off, not liking where this conversation was going. "Can serve a purpose, for sure, yet... you still unnerve me, T0-D. I can't read you. I can't sense any emotion from you."

"Counter: Well you humans are unpredictable as much as you are predictable. That unnerves ME. I express how I feel. And I think, just like you do. I mean, I call you meatbags, but at least you have intelligence that puts you above cattle."

Zizi glared at T0-D for that statement.

"You are a robot, you don't have a soul." The Zemlja was starting to get angry. "You simply follow orders, that's what you were made for, besides making any being you don't care for feel inferior or helpless."

"Zizi..." Kahli warned. T0-D's eye turned red on her.

"Statement: And how do you know YOU have a soul Zizi Slatki?"

"Because I have a conscience, and I don't go around hurting people!" Zizi snapped at T0-D. "You hurt me! You hurt Kahli! You could have hurt my unborn child when you kidnapped me, injecting me with those drugs! You have no sense of morality! You're just a thing!!! Why do you think I don't want you around me? Around my husband or children?! You hurt us once and you probably will do it again if your Empress orders you to do so! So stay the hell away from me and my family!!!"

"Counter: You're own husband was brutally tortured by the man you call a brother in law. Oh I'm sorry, correction. He allowed for his torture by a psychopathic prince. Wither I have a conscience or not is up for debate, I believe I do, but I've never taken the sickening joy in the torture of targets. What I gave you was completely humane, and dear Kahli received a simple punch to the stomach. When I kill, I make it swift, as one would do when putting down a pet. I enjoy following my orders, because I enjoy helping serve my people, but I do not have to enjoy the orders themselves. You are just as much a thing Zizi Slatki. Everything can be classified as a thing. You come into this world, you grow, and than you die. So here you are, holding onto grudges that I honestly cannot calculate why you'd still hold them, wasting the energy and time your organic body has left. Would you preferred I simply snapped Kahli's neck? Broken your bones so you couldn't escape your capture? No? The gods will judge you on your actions, as I sure they will they will when I eventually expire. So save your breath. I will always be a figure in your life, and all your future generations. If you choose to fear me or not, hold onto a grudge, I will not lose any time over it. But by my calculations, those who hold onto hate do rash things. And I'd have no issue terminating you if you made a move on my life. And yes, it is a life. As much as you, these flowers, or the countless meatbags surrounding us."

"At least I have a choice, you just blindly follow your orders without question. You kidnapped Kanisa, and because of your actions, your people suffered in the war. If you chose not to do so, think of all the misery that could have been prevented." Zizi spat back at him. "I know what Ralnor did to Kahli, tried to stop it actually. Just because my sister is married to the king doesn't mean I have to like my brother-in-law or agree with what he did. Personally, I'd like to kick his ass, yet that would only cause more strife. Sometimes, a grudge can give a person lessons; to be wary of those who could potentially stab them in the back. Call me all sorts of names and insult me all you want, the same goes for you. If you ever try to hurt us again, mark my words, I will find a way to dismantle you, spirits so help me. I will get along with your Empress for the sake of the alliance, and nothing more."

Turning on her heel, the Zemlja marched toward the exit. She was not going to deal with this any longer. That thing, that robot, whatever it was, it had no soul, no conscience, and was evil. She knew it, it was in her gut. Zannah craved power and would do anything necessary to get what she wanted. All it would take was one simple order from the Empress and T0-D could hurt her loved ones.

"Statement: I calculate my orders. I follow them out of choice. Every order was for the betterment of my people. We did not lose the war because one little princess was kidnapped. And I'd kidnap you again, without an order, if I felt it was necessary for the betterment of my people."

Kahli finally stepped in. "T0-D. Do not threaten my wife. Zannah will know about this."

"Clarification: I so do wish that you had not married her Kahli. Someone like you would be better at the Emperor's side. By my calculations, the offspring would do wonders physically and politically for the country."

He turned back to Zizi one last time. "Statement: I choose not to beat your ugly meatbag face in out of curtesy. I have been given no specific order that says I can't hurt anyone I like here. Remember that I know where you live Zizi Slatki."

T0-D turned his mechanical clawed feet and stomped away, needing to clear his circuits.

Zizi was going deeper into the greenhouse to where plants were waiting to be installed next to machinery for watering. She used her magic to pull them closer, causing the blooms to burst out of their pots. Swirling the various flora around her, the Zemlja created a hollow sphere and stepped inside of it. She needed to listen to the whispers of the plant. The age old knowledge would soothe her about this situation.

Kahli went back to his wife, finding her in her shelter. "Zizi... please come out."

"You come in. I can protect you in here."

"Zizi... I don't need protection, but I think you feel that you do."

"You do need protection! That thing will hurt you again! I just know it! A punch in the stomach, my ass!" Zizi was close to the verge of tears. "Zarazu told me it nearly killed you!!!"

"That was an exaggeration on her part. T0-D was right in some regards. I suffered much more at the hands of the Gerudo royalty than I ever did at him. A gut punch was nothing. The suffering that happened was my worry for YOUR safety! But Zannah did not hurt you! T0-D did not hurt you! You are a flower, my flower. You're the one who is as fragile as one Zizi. So if anyone should be worried, it should be ME!"

"I don't want them to ever hurt you. I'm terrified that they will!" Her sweet husband called her a fragile flower, though some flowers had thorns. Currently, Zizi was making sure her thorns had more nutrients than her beautiful petals. "Those Hasai hunted you for months! I can see how beaten you were, exhausted and hurt in my greenhouse when we first met. I know what T0-D has done, what Zannah has done and might do in the future. How am I supposed to ever put my trust in someone who's main priority is power? I want to keep you safe, keep you close, I never want to see you hurt again, by their hands or Ralnor's. I already lost so many I carried for on Lorleidi, I can't... I can't lose you too..."

"I'M NOT AN ANIMAL TO BE HUNTED ANYMORE! AND ANYONE WHO WOULD DARE HURT ME OR  YOU WOULD SUFFER MY WRATH!!!" Kahli smashed his hand on her protective dome, flames searing from his nostrils. "Zannah is my FRIEND ZIZI! I suffered for years, until SHE helped me! The Hasai don't hunt me anymore, directly and indirectly because of her! Power is a force I do not condemn, because of the power I hold now is what saves us allows me to protect you! If you see her as a monster for valuing power, than you see me as one as well. Don't. Please."

Zizi released a startled yelp when Kahli smacked his hand upon the sphere.

"... I don't condemn you or Zannah for having power, Kahli." The Zemlja was quiet now, sounding tired. "I've never seen you or her as a monster. I'm simply afraid... of her becoming one."

Kahli gripped his fists, reeling in his emotions. "Than you discredit her by giving into your fears. T0-D was wrong in scaring you. But I, or any other Hasai would have done the same actions her committed. Circumstances are what lead us down the actions we choose. The war, saving the island home. And she has every right to hold power if it means protecting our people. I do the same to protect you, my flower."

"Power to protect is different from power to dominate, Kahli." Zizi slowly stepped out of the sphere, the flowers moving to allow her through to her husband. "Zemljas know if a soul is good or evil, my husband. When I first looked upon you, I saw a soul who was hurting but still had good in him. There was darkness there, but you defeated it. You pushed it back and chose love instead."

"Do you honestly think that Zannah is evil? After all the struggles she went through?"

"No." Zizi shook her head. "Not yet, at least. When I first saw her, I noticed there was darkness there in her soul. Grudges, pain, and despair, but I thought it was just because of the past and what was happening with the Hydra poison." She then took a breath, feeling her skin crawl. "Though each time I saw her afterwards, the darkness has become more apparent. Growing like a weed that chokes other plants to steal resources. It's growing more and more, and when she looked at Annuciata..." The Zemlja bit her lip before saying. "I think Zannah will try to bond with Annuciata. For love, perhaps, but power is the driving force. I believe she intends to make an alliance with Danjur not only for the sake of her kingdom and resources, but... maybe to make Hyrule pay for what they did."

"She wouldn't dare."

Zizi held up her hands to his face.

"Will you let me show you what I saw?"

"I don't know if that would be fair to Zannah..." Kahli was conflicted. He didn't want to be pulled into a conflict of interests. "She can't become the worries you fear, can she?"

"You tell me, my love." Zizi started to lower her hands. "You and Zannah share the same abilities of fire."

"Hyrule is more of threat than she'd ever be."

"For now, maybe. In the future, we cannot be sure."

"Your people have dragons that could annihilate her. Your brother's wife is born from a demon-man. I fear the damage Hyrule can do now over Zannah's own power."

"I understand, Kahli. Though the enemies who lie in the dark and are patient, waiting for the perfect moment to strike are more dangerous than the ones who face you in the light." Zizi's gaze went downcast. "You told me that. I don't want to think Zannah is bad, I don't want to think she has an ulterior motive to hurt anyone. Though I have to be careful, and be cautious. I wasn't before, and that could have ended bloodier than it did."

"Can I tell you something? Malik worries me more than Zannah."

"Heh..." Zizi tried not to laugh, not wanting to seem hysterical. "I'm worried about Malik too. I have no idea what Zarazu was thinking, sending him."

"He's the one who craves power. Did you see how he valued showing off his wife's power? I find it disturbing."

"I honestly just viewed that as a kink of his, but perhaps you have a point." Zizi thought about how Malik used to be Klinge. How if Zarazu was not powerful enough, she was not worthy. She could still hear the sickening smacks of Klinge's punches or kicks hurting her sister. Though Zarazu knocked him down a few pegs, taking his arm. "I trust my sister, Kahli, so I'm sure she has a plan for all of this. Maybe it's to test him. To help him learn to be... human again."

"Hmmm, perhaps...." Kahli opened his arms wide for his wife. "Would you like to go home?"

"That sounds wonderful." Zizi hugged him tightly, breathing in his smell and relaxed. She always felt so safe, so secure in his hold. "... I'm sorry if I upset you, love. I promise it was not my intention."

"I'm sorry that you've been upset. Have you ever thought about open combat against T0-D? It's been a Hasai tradition to duel in order to get over strife and deal with stress concerning another being."

"Open combat?" Zizi nearly cringed at the words. "While I would absolutely love nothing more than to pummel him for what he did, I know better than that." She rubbed her belly and then sighed. "I don't want to risk our baby and I certainly do not want to burn bridges that my sister tried hard to rebuild. Besides, Kahli..." The Zemlja turned a little red in the cheeks. "I'm not the greatest fighter. When we fought against Vul'kar, I was absolutely petrified."

"I suppose that cements it. I'll have to always be by your side to fight for and protect you." He kissed both her cheeks lightly.

"Hey, I can fight, I'm just not good at close combat." Zizi pouted at him for a moment, but smiled at his kisses. "Though I will never object to you always staying by my side."

"I'll never leave." Kahli pressed her back into the pod, kissing and nipping her neck.

"And just what do you think you're doing?" Zizi giggled as her husband maneuvered both of them inside the flora sphere. "You know you're in my domain now, right?" The Zemlja proved her point by having the vines sneak under Kahli's shirt to tug at it as well as his pants.  

"I know. I wanted to give you a handicap~" He was already massaging her breasts. "This thing is sound proof, correct?" "Do you want it to be sound proof so I can moan as loud as you want?" Zizi knew how her lover was weak to love bites, so she bit down, hard, on his neck. "And a handicap? Such a gentleman."

Kahli hissed loudly. "Z-zizi."

He was already dropping his pants, and pushed downwards on her chest.

"Yes~~~?" Zizi ran her hands up his chiseled torso and the vines finished pulling off the shirt and Kahli's pants. However, the Zemlja was being very playful today. The flora sneaked up his thighs, running over his skin in feather light touches. "Does my lover want me to tease him?"

"That stings Zizi. I just want to embrace you..."

"I think we both know you want to do a little more than just embrace me." Zizi winked at him before trailing her hands down to his manhood. "Looks like I have a nice treat waiting for me."

Kahli growled, pulling her close. "I want to fuck your troubles away.”

"I don't object to that, just not too rough, love." Zizi kissed him, tugging on his neck to pull him closer. "After all, this is precious cargo in here."

“I promise not to be too hard.” Kahli went pressed his cock to her womanhood, grinding his teeth as he held her close.

Zizi shivered as her husband slipped inside her walls. He was always so warm, so passionate in his love making. How she wished she could hold onto that feeling forever. She held onto his shoulders as Kahli moved, moaning softly. Biting his neck, Zizi wrapped her legs around Kahli.

Kahli groaned loudly as she held onto his body. It was nirvana to him. “Whisper to your desires.”

"I want to make love to you everyday, I want to kiss you everyday, I want to keep you here in my arms and never let you go..." Zizi breathed as she ran her hands down Kahli's back. "I want you to know how much I love you, how thankful I am for you..."

“I love you. You are my passion. You are what sets my mind free.”

"Passion, indeed, love, I believe I can feel you swelling up inside of me." Zizi purred at Kahli, giving his back a light scratch as she nibbled on his throat. "Make me cum."

Kahli took a hand a pressed hard  her left nipple. He made sure to dip her back enough as he fucked her for the blood to go to her head.

"Ooooh-oh!!!!" Zizi moaned aloud as Kahli continued to thrust, digging her nails into his shoulders. The way his touch was fire incarnate made her see stars. Every single nerve was aflame, and responding to his caress. It was not long before the Zemlja came undone, crying out her husband's name.

“You’re so tight when you scream my name. Where do you want my seed?”

"I want you to cum in me, on me, anywhere, I want them to smell you on me."

Kahli never did this before, but pulling out, he cummed all over his lovers face down below.

"Mmm... I daresay you have a kink for marking your territory, Kahli." Zizi's tongue licked the corner of her mouth where a drop of cum hit her face. "Now I'll smell like you all day."

“You look filthy my dear. Rub it in before we leave~”

"And who's fault is that?" Zizi made sure to 'clean up' before exiting the sphere with her husband. "I feel better, Kahli."

“I’m glad.” Kahli held her close, walking away with her as people stared in disbelief at the two coming out of the pod. “You should wear the tribal painting next time.”

"Tribal painting? That's a good idea, love. I'll wear it to a meeting with Annuciata, and then later," Zizi leaned closer to whisper into his ear. "You can 'rub' it off of me."

Malik woke up from a nap, finding that they were about to arrive. "Asa, I hope you and T0-D weren't discussing anything too wild while I was asleep?"

"If you call Toddy telling me about his parts wild." Asakonigei made a horrible pun with a grin. She had been holding her husband's head in her lap, running her hands through his hair. "Enjoy your nap?"

"We're the wild ones, Kahli can't keep his hands to himself." Zizi was particularly enamored with her husband and his magic hands. Not to mention, when he heated his palms and massaged her sore back, she was literally putty in his hands. "I'm ready to rest. The meetings don't start till tomorrow, right?"

"From what Zarazu said, we'll rest today, then discussion is tomorrow."

"I'll be glad to just unpack."

"Observation: We are arriving to the capital."

"Oh, Zarazu was not kidding," Zizi gasped as she saw the city from above. "The capital Ewald is... it sparkles!"

"There's so many buildings made of metal and... oh, the stained glass is so lovely!" Asakonigei leaned forward, hugging Malik from behind. "The whole city looks like something from a fairy tale book!"

Malik viewed the masterful city down below. Centuries of potential to grow and prosper had lead to a country full of wonder. "This is what happens when your country isn't constantly laid siege to..."

"Let's hope Queen Annuciata is ready for our arrival."

~

"No, I said the red gown, I am not wearing that tacky green one, it is so last year." The queen of Danjur told her maidservants as one worked on her hair and the other fetched her shoes. "Get out the rubies with the diamonds, not the rubies with the gold, mind you. And where is my rogue? I won't present to the ambassadors or the Empress looking like a two bit whore."

"Yes, my queen."

"And make sure my useless brothers are there to greet them properly, then bring them to me in the throne room."

"Yes, my queen."

Another servant ran in, giving a bow. "My Queen. The ambassadors to Hyrule have just flown in."

"Good." Annuciata held out her hand and another maidservant handed her a fan. "Make sure the dragons have suitable accommodations, and make sure our esteemed guests have their quarters ready. Can't have them thinking we live in a sewer ditch." After the queen deemed herself presentable, her long red gown trailed behind her as she exited her bedchambers, four maidservants carrying the train. As she walked in heels, she asked, "Is the feast ready? I won't have my guests hungry."

"Yes my Queen. We have taken the proper requirements to make sure they will be absolutely satisfied."

"And the dragons?" Annuciata fanned her face.

"The fishery has spent weeks preparing fresh live fish to be captured and put in tanks. Only the best, even for Dragons."

"Good." Annuciata then made her way to the throne room, but before she went inside, she took a deep breath. "Now..." The queen waited for the servants to open the door and then gracefully strutted her way to the throne. The guests would arrive any moment, and first impressions were always a must.

Kahli took a deep breath. T0-D had decided to wait for Zannah to arrive and accompany her. Without the android, Kahli realized he'd be the very first impression of a Hasai to the Queen of Danjur. The weight of making a good impressions weighed on his shoulders. Hopefully Malik would take charge.

The Gerudo Lord of Hyrule made sure to wear something striking, something that told others he was still powerful. He never considered style before, but he had to wear the right clothing. Just strolling in with a massive suit of armour didn't cut it anymore. He was no mere solider. He was Lord. And he'd come across as such. He made sure he handsome, held some secret protection, stylish, and even a little intimidating. Waiting to be escorted in, he walked into the throne room with his wife and Kahli and Zizi behind him.

"Malik, don't be so tease." Asakonigei whispered to him before the group walked into the throne room. Her husband had a 'tell' when he was stressed. While as a commander, he had nerves of steel and could keep his wits, when there was an issue bothering him, Malik kept reaching for his sword, as if expecting a battle. "You look so handsome, after all, I picked out this outfit for you and I'll get to take it off of you later."

"You all right?" Zizi asked her husband as she squeezed his hand. "Remember, I'm here with you."

As the group of ambassadors made their entrance, Annuciata was all about her overall image. There she sat on her throne, fan in hand with the train of her dress trailing down the stairs. There was sun coming in from the stained glass which reflected different colors on the floor and illuminated her jewelry. Not only was she wearing the top standard of finery for clothes and jewels, there were also adornments in her hair. Her face was coated in makeup, giving the queen an extra flare.

Malik made sure to tell his wife ahead of time that the compliments he'd give Annuciata would be simply words. Arriving in her presence of the Queen, he gave a light bow of his head. "Greetings Queen Annuciata. I am Lord Malik of Hyrule. This is my wife, Lady Asakonigei. I wish to say that flying in, your city is as beautiful as you. I hope you will share its charm."

"It is lovely to make your acquaintance, Queen of Danjur."

Asakonigei bowed as well, making sure she looked stunning as well. Since her husband loved gold, she opted to wear a tight fitted gown, fit and mermaid flare. The dress was made entirely of sequins, sparkling like the metal the Kovina used on her husband's Iron Knuckle gown. Zizi, pregnant and wide, decided to chose a dress less flashy and more so comfortable, a simple green lace gown with a few adornments of bling here and there. She held onto Kahli's arm as the pair walked to the queen of Danjur.

"It is pleasing to meet all of you." Annuciata rose from her seat and took the steps one by one in slow fashion, letting her red gown flow behind her. "I trust your travels were well?"

"They were. I trust that we haven't kept you waiting. Is the Emperor here as well?"

"Empress Zannah is currently being seen to in her chambers." Annuciata explained to the group. "Something about a bit of nausea after riding in one of our Land Riders. She will make her debut later. For now, I have a feast prepared for you all, as well as chambers for your comfort." She gestured for her guests to follow her. "My chefs have prepared nothing but the best for you all." The queen then got to the point. "Kahli, is it? Tell me of your Empress and your people. I have had dealings with Hylians long enough to know what to expect. The Lorleidians have also been pleasant and cordial. I know little of the Kikai Empire."

Kahli was taken by surprise, but held it secret very well. "My people? What would you like to know? I'm sure that when Zannah arrives she can tell you more. My history with the Hasai is held dark chapters, but I am now moving on from that. I suppose the same can be said for my people's history as well."

"I'm sure the empress will be able to give me all the facts of history, power, and conquest, perhaps a love story or two, but I am interested in your personal thoughts." Annuciata sat at the head of the table filled with food to the brim. "There is a difference between the mind of an empress and one of her people. Speak."

Everyone took their seats, Kahli included. It seemed that he had no choice but to speak. He decided that the truth would be the most beneficial. Zannah would be wise enough to show how far she's worked against the atrocities. "Very well Queen Annuciata. The Hasai are made of multiple tribes. These tribes have been categorized by our skin colours, but more importantly our abilities. But first, a question for you. What do you know of war?"

"Danjur has crushed any enemy daring to cross our mountains or invade our seas." Annuciata was not subtle about her dislike for war. "However, we have been fortunate enough to make allies instead of foes. I am curious about your abilities. Is it similar to the Lorleidians? Or different?" The servants filled each person's glass full of wine, until one reached for Zizi's. "Idiot, can you not see the woman is pregnant? Go fetch her a drink of her choice."

"I apologize, my queen, though the kitchen menu orders---"

"Are you deaf or dumb? Perhaps both? Go get her a different drink, fool."

"Yes, my queen, I'm sorry, my queen."

"See it doesn't happen again."

Kahli held his tongue as the Queen chastised her servant. "The reason I bring up war, is because my people are natural users of the element of fire. Masters even, that can even make a Vatra seem like kindle." The Waku quickly patted Zizi's hand. "No offense to Zolori of course."

Taking a breath, he went back to his history speech. "And we used fire to destroy. War and battle was glory in our history. Unfortunately, we even destroyed each other. The Ocho clan, the royals that Zannah descends from, grew jealous of my clan, the Waku. We started to gain power as strong as them, so Zannah's descendants decided to exterminate my people. This lead to a quick and violent conflict that wiped out the Waku, the Hasai Dragons, and our original homeland. From that war, the Hasai only had less than half a century to find new land. So taking everything, they sought to conquer new lands. This lead to the brutal and fiery war against Hyrule. I was only a child and did not take part than. The survivors of my people were hunted down, myself include. If it wasn't for Zannah wanting to find peace, and bring more balance and rebuild our people, than I'd most certainly be dead."

Malik tapped his thigh underneath the table at even the mention of the war. Kahli looked over the Queen, wondering what more she wanted to see and hear. "As abilities go, being Waku means I have control of fire, and even lightning, like the sky. And like Zannah, we are the only two to make a pact with our god for even more power. I can incinerate creatures down to atoms, or cause them to explode, simply by giving them a touch. That is my gift that I was granted. I know not if I have more."

"It sounds like you are an object of power not only to your empress, but built to destroy." Annuciata saw no reason to hold back on the bluntness of her words. "Power is a lustful, corrupting objective, however, it seems you are firmly rooted to your lover and your home. I wonder why you wouldn't use such might to simply take what you want? Or is it because you wish to hold onto ideals of peace? It's amusing."

Zizi held onto Kahli's hand tightly under the table. She was not sure how he would take the queen's words, but both of them were warned that Annuciata was quite forward and said exactly what she thought. All she wished was for this meeting to go well.

"My husband is a good man, Queen Annuciata." Zizi told the ruler of Danjur. "What power he has is to help his people and mine. He doesn't have it for war."

"Seeking absolute power corrupts. Look at Ganon. Or even to my own people. I have this power, but I can walk from it away as well. To do so, is true strength." Kahli squeezed Zizi's hand back. "I have everything I could ever want. A wife. Children. And a job where I can simply be at peace tending the flowers."

"Interesting, a man of power who tends to the plantations of his home." Annuciata chuckled at the thought. "So adorable. Though, you, Lady Asakonigei, my servants told me you are a Kovina." The queen turned her attention to Malik's wife. "Won him over with a suit of... gold, I believe it was?"

"I made him an Iron Knuckle armor suit, Queen Annuciata." Asakonigei clarified. "He made the request for a suit of armor and I simply made a few changes to suit his heritage."

"She also made my right arm. Her craft is unmatched. A woman of steel nerves who mastered steel itself. I'd say that there is no one else who could have won my heart." Malik turned to give his wife a light smile.

"Oh, a blacksmith? I don't think I've ever met a woman who worked with metal like you do, Lady Asakonigei." Annuciata then clasped her hands together. "Show me a demonstration?"

"A... demonstration?"

"Yes, I've heard that you made marvelous suits of armor." She glanced to her guards. "Pull one of them forward. I wish to see your magic in action."

"Oh! ... I... I don't want to hurt one---"

"Oh, tsk, tsk, just drag one toward us."

"I... very well."

Asakonigei selected one of the bigger guards and hesitantly used her magic to pull him by the weapon in his hand. He was startled by his spear suddenly being yanked forward, grunting and trying to pull it back, but she moved him, entire suit of armor and all.

Malik gave a light smile. A display of power was good in his eyes. Showed the Queen exactly what Hyrule was made up of now. Kahli, however, frowned, disapproving a display of such strength. Power was not used for the amusement of others. It was weapon, and like any weapon, should only be used in serious situations.

"Oh, what a nifty little trick!" Annuciata was obviously impressed. "So not only do you forge metal, you actually do control it. I thought Queen Zarazu was simply bragging about the abilities of Lorleidians. Obviously, she was not." She looked at Zizi. "So that means you really can command plants at will."

"Yes, Queen Annuciata." Zizi gave a slight nod of her head. "I use my magic to benefit my kingdom by feeding the people and tending to the plantations. My husband helps me with the work."

"Tell me, sister of the queen, what is your favorite plant to grow?"

"My favorite? There's so many to chose from."

"Oh, please, you must have one."

"Well... Kahli and I first met in one of my greenhouses while I was tending to some arrowroot." Zizi held her husband's hand. "It's used to fight infections, and isn't the most flaunting of plants, but to me, it's special because that's when I met Kahli."

Kahli squeezed Zizi's hand once more. She knew just what to say to warm his heart. His perfect flower. In the middle of talks and drinking though, a servant ran in. "My Queen. The Empress has arrived. She's awaiting invitation to be let in."

"Invitation? Why would she be here unless I invited her, you daft fool!" Annuciata barked an order at the servant. "You dare to keep her waiting? Show her in!"

The servant stuttered an apology before scrambling to show in the Hasai Empress.

Black Royal Hasai Guards escorted Zannah in. To be courteous, the Emperor of the Kikai Empire only brought two. Enough to cover her flank, and show she wasn't a fool to come alone. To appear unhostile, Zannah opted out of her usual royal armour. No need for fancy capes or steel wrapped around her figure for negotiations. Instead, she wore tight, pattern filled dress, in tradition to Danjur culture. She wanted to show she showed her knowledge of studying the lands culture before visiting. Behind her, T0-D flanked her, being ordered to be quiet unless spoken to. Her dress was a striking purple against her emerald skin, and her golden eyes laid on the group at the table. Even Malik was shook by her appearance. When she spoke, she was powerful, clear, and sounded even young, and her golden eyes laid upon the ruler. "Queen Annuciata. Apologies for the wait. I'm so glad to finally meet your acquaintance."  

"The same goes for me, Empress Zannah. I hope you're feeling better?" Annuciata asked of the empress. "I apologize for not warning you beforehand about the Land Riders. First time goers are usually a little off put by the motion, and you seemed so keen on trying out one of our fine pieces of technology. Please, sit. If the food does not suit you, I can have my chefs make you a different dish."

"It was not an issue, I assure you." Zannah took her seat, eyes focused on the Queen. "Please, fill me in on the discussion I have missed up until now."

"Ah, just friendly conversation up until now." Annuciata chuckled lightly. "Kahli was giving me some Kikai culture incentives, Zizi was filling me in on their romance, Lady Asakonigei was so kind to demonstrate a Kovina's ability, and Lord Malik... well, we haven't gotten to him just yet."

"I see. I hope Kahli only spoke the truth. He is a great example of how Hasai can co-exist with other cultures. But we can save that for negotiations tomorrow. Please, turn your attention to... Lord Malik? Yes... Afterall, he arrived first."

Malik already felt like Zannah held something against him, but what?

"Oh, I think Kahli knows better than to lie, Empress. After all, he is representing Hyrule and the King and Queen chose him and his wife for this task. He wouldn't want to fail them." Annuciata looked at Malik. "Yes, you're the odd one, Lord Malik. Until recently, I haven't heard of you in Hyrule's ranks."

Malik knew his test would begin now. "I have always been an observer to Hyrule. I even met you when you were but a child, visiting Covarog for his birthday. I am power and the strong arm of Hyrule. My responsibilities is to keep it safe, and its people safe. The title of Lord was not necessary until recently."  

"...? When I was a child? I am confused, Lord Malik, you don't look a day over fifty." The Queen of Danjur thought he was jesting. "Come now, tell me of your history."

"My history is my own. I have been on all sides of conflict in my years. I've followed heroes, villains, would be conquerors and mighty tyrants. And I've been told I look younger thirty. Magic is a law of our world that all cultures use, myself being no exception. I have taken many identities Queen Annuciata. While those other identities are still a part of me, my title now, Lord Malik, is the greatest of them all."

"All right, keep your secrets." Annuciata thought it would be best to pester him for answers later. "Please eat and enjoy the food, and..." She paused for a moment, looking at the robot. "Does your... what do you call it?"

"T0-D is his name, he's an android." Asakonigei informed Annuciata.

"Does he eat?"

"Negative: I do not need the sustenance that your meatbag body requires. How you manage to find the power sustain yourself is a true wonder of biology."

Zannah slightly turned her head to her Android's direction. "Tod. Don't use that word towards the queen."

"Conformation: Biology?"

"Meatbag."

"Calibration: Very well. I will have to lower my power capacitors in calling the Queen such. Will need to balance it. I'm positive Meatbag Zizi will compensate. After all, she has a tiny meatbag growing inside her as we speak. That's double the meat. Must be maddening."

"Very well Tod."

Zizi knew that T0-D had to be on his best behavior, so she would use this instance to annoy him.

"Oh, Queen Annuciata, please, watch this. It is most amusing."

Knowing that T0-D had magnetic properties, and that he had to behave, she tossed a fork at him... which stuck to the side of his head.

The Queen of Danjur instantly started to laugh.

"Oh my, that is surely something." Annuciata then asked. "Do you have more T0-Ds? I certainly would like one, despite his talking. I think I'd have that disabled, and have the android just follow orders."

"Zizi..." Asakonigei said just above a whisper. "Be nice."

"The pile of scrap metal started it."

"Negative: I am one of a kind." T0-D took the fork off, placing it back down. He was already calculating a swift and terrible revenge to humiliate Zizi.

"That is a pity. Empress Zannah, I don't suppose I could convince you to let me purchase this one-of-a-kind machine from you?" Queen Annuciata inquired with a smile as she tossed another piece of silverware at the android, giggling when it stuck. Magnetic capabilities could be most amusing sometimes. "Name your price."

T0-D was getting annoyed with these woman throwing their curtly at his head, his eye flashing red and back to blue. Zannah gave a light smile, pulling the spoon of her companions head. "That's up for the negotiation tomorrow. Besides, I don't think Tod would appreciate being sold like a slave."

"Conformation: I would most certainly not."

"Oh, I wouldn't keep him as a slave, no, I'd keep him as a prize." Queen Annuciata sighed as she leaned back in her chair. "Perhaps put him on a pedestal where I could simply look at the piece of ancient technology. Maybe have him follow me around and look pretty and shiny for me."

Zizi had to hold back a snicker when the queen mentioned T0-D being no more than a pet.

"Sarcasm: Oh yes. I'm sure that would do wonders for your collection. Make you the talk of the town. It's too bad I got a citizenship not too long ago. How I always wanted to be sold off as scrap to sit in a museum. It has always been my dream."

"Quite the talker, isn't he?" Queen Annuciata shrugged. "Oh well, it's easy to disable that feature, I'm sure. Tell me, Empress Zannah, is there any issue you wish to be first on the list tomorrow for discussion?"

"An alliance between our people for starters. And to share my grievances against Hyrule."

Malik was taken aback by her wording. "Excuse me?"

"Trust me, we have much to discuss, but I'm sure that we can save it for tomorrow. I suppose Malik and his wife, as well as Zizi and Kahli are tired.

"Grievances?" Queen Annuciata repeated with a surprised expression. "I was not aware there was a problem, seeing that the King and Queen of Hyrule have already helped you start the rebuild of your empire."

"What?" Zizi blurted out at the use of Zannah's wording before she could stop.

"Like I said, we'll save it for tomorrow." Zannah raised her hand to one of her guards. At her signal, they offered the Queen a rich red wine. "My first gift to you. Our wineries are becoming one of our most treasured goods. I call it, "Hyrda's Bane". Ever since the beast's poison was expelled, our land has grown more prosperous than ever."

"A unique name, for starters, but I shall indeed give it a try." Queen Annuciata inspected the wine and then one of her servants took it for her. "Very well, tomorrow morning we shall discuss various issues. However, I must remind you, Empress Zannah, that Danjur and Hyrule have been on good grounds for many decades. We wish to extend our alliance to you as well, though we do not wish to cause strife with others. That said, we will listen to various problems to be cordial."

"Thank you. Are you married Queen Annuciata?"

"Married? Pish-posh, why would I get married when I can simply buy sausage and not the whole pig?" Queen Annuciata laughed at the inquiry. "No, Empress Zannah, I am not married and have no plans to be for the mere future. If I am to chose a suitable husband for the sake of an heir, it will be a man who I can easily control. No one will ever have me under their thumb."

"Interesting. I'm unmarried as well. How'd you like to spend sometime with our glasses of wine and give me a tour of your palace while the rest of the guests settle in for the night?"

"Intriguing offer, Empress Zannah. I shall accept, as long as we speak no more of business and alliances. I am tired from the day's events and wish to simply enjoy good company." Queen Annuciata rose from her seat. "My esteemed guests, please, follow my servant to your quarters. I do hope it is to your liking. If you shall need anything, anything at all, simply give your order to the servant outside the door. They will be there the entire night."

"Of course. You have to tell me who does your decorating." Zannah gently took Annuciata's hand, helping her up. Zannah's hand was smooth and warming at the touch. "To the rest of you, goodnight."

"Oh, you're being a flatterer, I chose everything." Annuciata noticed how warm Zannah felt as she rose from her chair as the other guests exited the room to go to their assigned quarters. "Why would I let some stranger decorate my home? Besides, my brothers have absolutely no taste."

"I bet. I think that might be part of the reason your brothers aren't on the throne."

"Pffft! Please, my brothers are mere children." Annuciata laughed. "Too immature for the role of a leader. No, they don't understand that the kingdom comes first. I will do whatever is necessary for the benefit of my people."

"As will I." Zannah continued walking with Annuciata down her prestige halls. "Tell me, how did you seize power over them? Why is someone like you in charge of such a mighty kingdom?"

"My brothers are twins, you see. Kept arguing over who was to be seated on the throne, while making numerous mistakes in their ruling." Annuciata fanned her face while speaking. "My parents did not like that they could not come to a decision, so made it for them; me on the throne."

Zannah gave a light visible frown. "They just gave you it?"

"Well... that's what we have to let the kingdom think." Annuciata chuckled as she hid a smirk behind her fan. "I had my ways of... manipulation."

Annuciata was rewarded with a genuine smile, and had her wine filled up. "Really now... admirable."

"Ma and Pa were always so easily open to my suggestions. It must be my charm." Annuciata led Zannah onto a balcony for some fresh air. "Though it is my brothers' own fault, always fighting, always squabbling like little children. They may hate me for it, but what can they do now besides bicker?"

"They should be grateful that they are still alive to squabble." Zannah set her glass down, holding the balcony edge. "You have a beautiful city here my dear."

"Danjur is my kingdom, but also my most prized treasure." Annuciata looked over the marvelous lights of the city. "We have strengths all around; impenetrable mountains and a roaring sea on our sides. Though, as much as my brothers squabble, they do unfornately have a point." The queen frowned slightly. "I will have to produce an heir to the throne."

Zannah slowly turned to her. She didn't blink as she spoke. "Really. And why's that?"

"Not only is it expected of me, though my biological clock is ticking." Annuciata had a mild grumbling tone to her voice. "I much rather have a woman than a man. Women do what they say they are going to do and men run at the first sight of trouble. Hmph. Though I need a man to reproduce."

Zannah tilted her head, and grabbed her hand. "Can I tell you something Annuciata?"

Annuciata was taken aback when Zannah grabbed her hand, slightly surprised at her boldness. The Queen of Danjur was not too keen on being touched so freely. Though, this once, she allowed it.

"...? Yes? Go on?"

"I took the seat of Emperor at sixteen. I had to make very hard choices. My people needed a tough ruler to bind them together after losing the war against Hyrule. I lost my entire family, so by being the sole survivor of the royal clans, I became Emperor. I also had to make sacrifices to my happiness by listening to the advice of a war council. Like you, I was pressured into having a child. They had to inject me because I burned the candidates they tried to have forced on me with a donor. I'm a mother to twins because I had to continue my clan. After that I swore to never again let anyone tell me how to lead the future of my people, or how to live my own life." The wind blew lightly against the two woman. "What I'm trying to say Annuciata, is that you have the power. You are in control. And you don't need to follow the traditions of others. Make your own."

"You have wise words, Empress, and I wish to follow them. Though, at the same time, I do not want my people to suffer." Annuciata looked over her capital city of Ewald. "If I fail to produce an heir, then the throne would ultimately fall to one of my brothers. I fear what those imbeciles' offspring would do to my kingdom." She shook her head lightly. "I do not mind entertaining the thought of being a mother. Truth be told, it would be lovely to have a little one who loved me, for me, in return. Though finding someone to trust with my heart... that is the hard part."

"That is the hardest part, finding someone for the heart. Someone powerful, someone... beautiful. Is there nothing else you can do?"

"It is like the kings and queens of old said, Empress Zannah..." Annuciata folded her fan. "Sometimes, you must sacrifice your very heart for the sake of the kingdom."

Zannah held Annuciata's hand firmly. "Take my word to heart Queen Annuciata. The kingdom, if you hold the right amount of power and care over it, will bend to your heart."  A sensual warmth filled the queen, giving her a small sense of loss as the Emperor let go. "I will see you tomorrow afternoon?"

"... yes..." Queen Annuciata had to take a breath, having forgotten to breath at that sensual warmth filling her body. "I hope you will sleep well."

Zannah gave her a warm smile. "And may your dreams be sweet."

"Nhmmm..." Asakonigei stirred slightly on the mattress from the kiss. Ever since Klinge had turned into Malik, her husband, he had trouble learning how to be... human again. It was highly amusing watching him complete everyday tasks. When Asakonigei reminded him of little things he had to do, Malik almost seemed perplexed. "Mhmmm... it's too early." Asakonigei grumbled lightly as she pulled the covers up over her heard. "I don't want to get up just yet. Come back to bed, it's warm and soft here."

"What if I warm you up instead." Tearing her blankets off, he hugged her close, giving her slow kisses on her face and neck.

"HEY!" Asakonigei protested when Malik yanked off the blanket and then smothered her with love. "Goodness, what's gotten into you this morning?"

"I'm just in a good mood? Can't I hug my beautiful wife?"

"Snuggles, kisses, and compliments?" Asakonigei grinned at him, teasing a little. "No, no, you're definitely up to something. What is it this time?"

"Well... I was thinking we could do that thing that you are so good with your mouth this morning~ I can treat you well after in return~"

"Ooo, I see you're trying to butter me up to get what you want." Asakonigei giggled as she ran a finger from his chin to the center of his chest. "And I get a treat too? Well what if I want my big, thick, and hard treat first?"

Malik's hands rubbed the hips of his charming wife in return. "You're the mechanic. You should know ever engine needs to be revved up first."

Asakonigei was in the process of taking off her pajamas when there was a knock. Groaning aloud, the Kovina glared at the door. She scowled and fixed her top.

"Whoever is at that door, I'm going to throw them out the window."

"Not if I do so first." Malik grumbled, giving his wife a deep kiss and a spank on the ass to keep her wet and waiting. Grabbing a robe he covered himself up as he opened the door, glaring at whoever ruined his morning now.

Ralnor stood outside Malik's doors, his face as stoic as ever, even at the man's glare. The secondborn prince had his hands clasped behind his back, his face not betraying any emotion.

"The queen requires your presence." Ralnor then added. "Now."

"Does she now? I can tell that you won't make her wait, will you." Malik turned to his wife before Ralnor could give an answer. "This sounds like business. I suppose I'll see you after work?"

"Rrr... fine." Asakonigei flopped back on the bed, sulking. "I know you have to go, but I don't have to like it."

"I wasn't interrupting anything... was I?" Ralnor tried his best not to smirk. "Don't keep the queen waiting, commander."

"You were. And it's Lord Malik to you now, Prince Ralnor." Klinge quickly got his new attire on. It was a fine suit and clung close to his body, and tight chainmail underneath, but still a far cry from his shells that he wore as an undead. The fresh air was a foreign concept to him. As he walked with Ralnor, he tugged at his collar, never finding the right pace for the perfect fit. "Do you know what this is about?"

"Hmm, since you are now a lord, that occupation comes with newfound responsibilities." Ralnor thought it was rather funny to see the old commander rather vexed about being interrupted with Asakonigei. "The queen has a task for you to complete for her. Since our queen is with child and cannot leave the castle, and our king refuses to leave her, she has personally asked you to do this for her."

"What?" Malik actually showed he was startled, for the first time in Ralnor's life. The Gerudo Lord knew he new occupation would hold new challenges, but he did not expect to take them on so soon. "Covarog is not one to stray away from his responsibilities. Even with Zarazu pregnant."

"While that may be true, the king refuses to leave with Zarazu this close to her due date." Ralnor shrugged his shoulders. "His reasoning is that he will not be absent during the birth of their second son. The queen requested the king be present, as it is Lorleidian tradition for the husband to support his wife during childbirth."

"Zarazu just- never mind." It seemed Zarazu and Covarog shut everything down the moment she found out she was pregnant with her boy. Why would her third child, or any child, be any different? Arriving at the court room, Malik strolled in. He exchanged a view glances with some nobles. His transformation and new title had stirred the political environment around the castle. "Queen Zarazu. King Covarog. I am here upon your summons."

"My brother and his queen have been trying for a child for the last five years." Ralnor reminded the commander. "So they're bound to be... careful."

As soon as the pair walked into the court room, Ralnor bowed politely to his brother and Zarazu. The queen was sitting in her chair while Covarog stood beside of her. He had his hand on the hilt of his sword, always on alert for danger. Covarog knew some of the nobles, as well as any other enemies, may try to harm his wife and unborn children. So, he was not going to leave her side, even though Zarazu was more than capable of protecting herself. Ever since Klinge had turned human, into Malik, Zarazu was without her personal bodyguard most of the day. Covarog did not like it and did not trust anyone else enough to guard her besides the captains, and Kelly and Tulilad had their own duties to attend to during the day.

"Thank you for arriving so promptly, Klinge---Lord Malik. I apologize, I'm still getting used to the new name." Zarazu smiled at her friend. "Please, sit."

Murmurs traveled at his name change. Sitting down, Malik adjust his seat. “What is the business at hand, ladies and gentlemen?”

"We have a task for you to complete since our queen is now with child." Covarog told Malik as he hesitated to leave Zarazu's side. She gestured for him to do so, and the king then presented Malik with a scroll. The writing on the scroll contained new trade agreements for the Kikai Empire, as well as helping the Hasai build a new alliance with Danjur. Since the Kikai Empire was recovering from the hydra poison blow, there was still some aid required. "We need you to be an ambassador for Hyrule as you travel to the Kikai Empire and Danjur to help build a stronger alliance for future generations."

Malik gripped Covarog’s arm. This was startling news. “This is why you aren’t doing this yourself, isn’t it.”

"That is not necessarily true, Lord Malik," It was Zarazu's turn to speak this time. "You asked to be instated to the title of lord, and with that title come responsibilities. My king has started to repair the burnt bridges of the past with the Kikai Empire and has already built a strong foundation with the kingdom of Danjur. However, it is now your turn to show us that you can handle the pressures of being a lord and look past the bias which might cloud your vision for our children's future. It is better to have peace, than to have war." Then she simply asked him. "Are you up for the challenge?"

Malik felt the pressure of everyone eying him. Nodding, he took a bow to his Queen. “Of course. I’ll prepare at once to leave with my wife. Is there anything special about this case I should know about in advance?”

"You will have assistance with the Kikai Empire and Danjur, Lord Malik, I will not send you into uncharted territories alone." Zarazu assured her friend. "My sister, Zizi, and her husband, Kahli, have graciously volunteered to go with you to the Kikai Empire as well as Danjur to help establish a good relationship and to make a notable impression." The queen then interlocked her fingers and smiled brightly, a little impish look on her face. "And I have arranged transportation as well."

“Kahli? Why him?”

"Do you know any other Hasai who will tolerate you for the sake of their wife?" Covarog tried to hold back a snort. "Or will agree to be near you?"

"My king..." Zarazu gave her husband a look, who instantly shut his trap. "What my king is trying to say, Lord Malik, is Kahli is our best option at the moment. He is married to my sister and has good standing in Hyrule. He can vouch not only for the kingdom of Hyrule, but also his own people."

“Very well....” Malik rose, incredibly annoyed by this assignment, but it was his duty. “What transportation did you have in mind?”

"Pojiji's old earth dragon, Ari'phompha, has graciously volunteered to transport Zizi and Kahli to their destination, so I asked Nubi'ahlus to escort you and Asakonigei," Zarazu elaborated. "So there will be no delays or set backs taking a road. Kahli was most concerned about being on hazardous roads with the threat of bandits, mudslides, so on and so forth, so I indulged his request for more conventional transportation."

"You will spend one day traveling to the Kikai Empire on dragon back, and three days there to negotiate means of trade and other concerns for the alliance." Covarog continued. "Then you will spend the next three days traveling to Danjur, and spend three days there before traveling back home."

A knock came to the door. Kahli came in with his wife. The man wore respectful robes in black. “Queen Zarazu. Our preparations our complete.”

"Thank you, Kahli." Zarazu stood from her seat to greet her sister, Covarog instantly going to help her stand. "My king, I am fine."

"You're pregnant."

"I'm not two tons of fun just yet, I can walk."

"... all right."

"Zizi, you look well!" Zarazu hugged her baby sister with a bright smile. "Hard to believe Manaco is going to be a big brother already. He's barely over a year old."

"Who's fault you think that is?" Zizi nudged her husband with a grin. "Kahli failed to tell me about his 'spring season' and couldn't keep his hands off of me."

"I think Covarog has a spring season everyday." Zarazu giggled with her sister. "Another boy? Girl?"

"It's another boy." Zizi patted her belly. "But so far, no hot flashes like I had with Manaco."

"Maybe that means the kid will be a Zemlja like you."

"Who knows, we'll see."

"Are you sure you're okay going? I can always send someone else."

"No, no, sis, I got this. Besides, my husband is going and he needs my support."

"Very well." Zarazu smiled at Zizi. "Do you need anything else?"

"I think we're all ready, and we're grateful that you're taking care of Manaco for us while we're gone."

"I took care of baby dragons, and you are as a baby, I can handle Manaco."

Kahli held Zizi close, not liking the stares of the nobles. “We’re very excited for the newborn. As well as your support.”

"I'm the queen, though I am also Zizi's sister. Of course I will support you both." Zarazu noticed how close Kahli was holding her baby sister. She recalled Zizi telling her that once more, Kahli's instincts were in overdrive since she was pregnant with their second child. The queen thought it was slightly amusing. "Please, let me know if there is anything else you need before you leave. Lord Malik and his wife, Lady Asakonigei, will be accompanying you."

Malik smiled fondly at the name. “I like the sound of that. Lady Asakonigei.”

Just before any more fun could be had, another knock came, followed by mechanical clanks. To everyone’s surprise, the Android, T0-D entered the court room, having somehow having gotten past security.

“Statement: Greetings meatbags! Especially you fat one. I hope your pregnancy isn’t an issue Zizi.”

"... what is that thing doing here?" Zizi did not hide her disdain for the robot, crossing her arms. Ever since T0-D kidnapped her, the Zemlja was not trusting of the robot despite the friendship with Zannah. She growled at him, "My pregnancy won't stop me from turning you into a pile of nuts and bolts if you get within ten feet of me. Stay over there, you pile of scrap metal."

"Tod... we talked about this." Zarazu groaned in annoyance as the robot made his entrance. She tried her best to be civil. "There are protocols in place. You must announce yourself to the guards who will escort you here. This is the agreement. If you do this again, we're going to have to report it to Zannah."

"Your owner knows this, we discussed it." Covarog was not pleased either, especially since the robot loved to challenge security any way possible. "You follow protocols when you visit here, we follow protocols when we visit your empress. It's disrespectful for you to come bounding through here."

"Please, Tod, don't do it again."

“Amusement: Oh, you know it’s all in good fun. And why have protocols if your guards can’t even spot me? Seems foolish to waste time.”

Kahli held his wife close. Her distaste was his own. “T0-D, why are you here?”

“Statement: Emperor Zannah sent me to intercept you. A trip to the Empire is no longer required.”

“Why is that?”

“Quarry: Are you broken Kahli? Did you malfunction? No? Than don’t interrupt, and I’ll tell you.”

T0-D’s eye went from blue to red, and back to blue again after issuing his insult. “The Empress is traveling directly to Danjur for an open negotiation. She can’t wait for Zarazu to join her.”

"My queen, unfortunately, cannot join your empress at this time." Covarog said through gritted teeth to the robot. "My wife is pregnant and for her safety, as well as my future child, cannot leave the castle."

"Please tell Empress Zannah that I send my deepest apologies, but my king is right." Zarazu told T0-D. "We have tried for a child for so long, we cannot take any risks by my venturing beyond the castle."

"In her place, we are sending Zizi and Kahli, who Zannah knows, as well as Lord Malik and Lady Asakonigei."

"Quarry: Lord Malik?"

Malik cleared his throat. "We fought against each other at the end of the war."

"Exclamation: Ah! You certainly look much better. You're no Zarazu, but my Empress will make do. Zarazu, would you like me to record a message for my Empress?"

"Yes, please, T0-D, I think recording a message for your empress will be suitable. I'm sure she can understand the situation I am in currently, and it will be better to explain for her." Zarazu nodded her head. "If you have any other questions before I record, I will answer them now."

"Excitement: I'll need a ride with one of the dragons. I'm sure Zizi and her husband will love my company."

Malik did not like the android either, but he knew that his Zizi would NOT be able to handle her buttons being pushed for a day of travel stuck with the machine. "You will ride with me Android. I'm sure my wife will find you fascinating. She's a Kovina."

"Curiosity: The members of the metal tribe. I suppose it will be the closest thing to transcending your meatbag status. Zarazu, you may record your message now."

"If he tries to get on Ari'phompha, I'll push him off." Zizi grumbled under her breath to her husband. "I don't want him touching me, near me, and if he makes one more joke about me being 'fat', I'll figure out by some law of Zemlja magic to dismantle him."

Zarazu pulled T0-D aside to record her message.

"Empress Zannah, I hope you are well. I regret to inform you that I will not be able to attend this alliance meeting with you in Danjur. I am now with child after trying for over five years. My king and I have both agreed that for my safety and the safety of the future heir, I cannot leave the castle grounds. In my place, I am sending my younger sister, Zizi, and her husband, Kahli. You are both acquainted with each other, so I know this will make the proceedings easier. Accompanying them is Lord Malik and Lady Asakonigei, who are on good terms with Danjur. I hope to be seeing you soon."

T0-D's eye went from white, back to blue upon finishing the recording. "Statement: The recording is stored. I'm sure she will be glad you sent Kahli. And for what it's worth, I'm sure you will deliver another little 'bundle of joy'."

Zarazu then returned to her husband's side. "Please make any last minute preparations, and be safe. I will be awaiting news."

~

 "You know, when you accepted this title of 'lord', I had no idea we'd be traveling outside of Hyrule." Asakonigei was excited. "I've never been anywhere except here and Lorleidi. I heard Danjur has these... these metal machines that are like... living! And these things called engines! Do you think they'd let me mess with..." The Kovina was rambling, almost having a skip in her step. "I cannot believe Zarazu wants me to present my suits of armor for them. Do you think they'll like them?"

Malik nodded, finishing packing his bags. "I'm sure they will. As long as we stay behaved. I hold the reputation of the entire country on my shoulders. As far as Zarazu is concerned, I am the country."

"Do you think we'll have time to... ourselves?" Asakonigei asked him as she placed a brand new piece of lingerie on top of Malik's pile of clothes. Black, silk, and very revealing, all of her husband's favorite items in a piece of lingerie. "Because I'd hate for this to go to waste..."

"I'll make the time." He leaned over to give her a kiss, and shut his bag. "You seem excited to explore Danjur culture. How do you feel about the Hasai?"

"I'm curious about the Hasai, but I don't want to upset you, love." Asakonigei then told him. "I want you to be comfortable first. I can always learn from a book, but if you don't want me near them, then I won't go. You're my main priority, my love."

"Unfortunately, you'll be exposed to them, no matter what. And I'm sure you'll have no problem with them as much as I do. It's history on my part. And to my dismay, I'm certain, unlike Zizi, your first exposure to them outside of Kahli will make you love them..."

"What makes you say that?" Asakonigei halted Malik from packing for a few moments, taking his hands. "You know I'll be on your side."

"Your love as a gear head will make it so..."

Walking to the courtyard, T0-D was chatting it up with Nubi'ahlus. "...honestly, I don't understand your worries. Surely even you must understand fire is the most attractive element. Any dragon would be glad to be your mate."

Turning to the door opening behind him, he waved to Malik and his wife. "Greetings: Oh Lord Malik. Nubi'ahlus and I were wondering if you had rusted with the time you had taken to arrive. Even Zizi could roll her way over on her stomach faster than you."

"Fire is probably most attractive to Hasai culture, metal person, but in Lorleidian dragons, it is the soul." Nubi'ahlus explained to the robot. He was very curious, sniffing the man who... was not a man. It was confusing for him. "We must resonate with each other."

"Oh... my... spirits." Asakonigei sucked in a sharp breath when she saw T0-D. "What is that?!?!"

"Answer: I am combat and communication Android, designated T0-D. I work in the service of my Master, Emperor Zannah of the Kikai Empire. I have lived for thousands of years, originally designed by ancient Shiekah, but in time, have been modified by Hasai engineers. I am one of kind, and very proud of my programming. Humans have called me dangerous, intelligent, and joy to be around. I understand the human biology and mind to handle people effectively."

"That means he's good as a killer, or just getting under other people's skin..." Malik huffed, ignoring the android to get his bags loaded.

"You're a moving piece of metal! You can talk but you're not alive, and oh my spirits, look at those gears!!!" Asakonigei was definitely excited, approaching T0-D with curiosity and not having any qualms about touching the robot. "You're made out of such fine materials, look at the quality of craftsmanship! What is the power source? How exactly how the metal not degraded with time? Do you have magical components? What about---"

"Asa, please..." Zizi groaned as she ran a hand down her face. "Now is not the time."

"But it's a... it's... living but not living! I've never seen anything like this!"

"You can pester the asshole later, for now, we need to get the dragons prepped."

"Correction: I do not posses an asshole, like you do Zizi. Tell me, is yours located by that hole on your face? Would explain the fecal matter that spews from your mouth at times." After delivering his insult, T0-D turned his attention back to Asakonigei. "Intrigue: Why I have a master core in both my head and my chest, as so if one is damaged in an unlikely event, I can still function. The ancient Shiekah held a deep potential for the ultimate blend of magic and technology. And the metals found in the original Hasai homeland held a metal known as Cortosis. Very interesting metal, as it grants me an immunity to low to medium level voltages. I am indeed living, in my own way. I find your fascination of me to be most interesting, given the uneasiness Zizi and her sister view about their false philosophy of my life."

Just for that insult, Zizi threw her bag at him, the pregnancy hormones getting the best of her.

"I ought to bury you so deep in the ground that you'll never claw your way out, you piece of slag!"

"Zizi, calm down, you don't need to stress the baby." Asakonigei told her friend. "I know you two don't have a good relationship, but can we try to be civil for the sake of this alliance?"

"Hmph. Tell that to the thing."

Asakonigei sighed and shook her head.

"Well, for your information, um..."

"They call the thing Tod."

"Tod," Asakonigei then told the robot. "I am a Kovina, I control the metal elements of the earth." She demonstrated by pulling particles from the ground, forming a ball of silver. "So it is in my nature."

Kahli hurried his wife onto the dragon, getting her away from the environment.

T0-D was heavily intrigued. "Excitement: A truly amazing ability. It is so enjoyable to find a Lorleidian who has a power not rooted in in the ground."

Malik groaned. "Great. You do puns too. Alright, both of you on the dragon."

"I'm going to find a way to kill him, I swear." Zizi grumbled to her husband as Kahli helped her onto Ari'phompa. It was a little awkward with her big belly in the way, taking a couple of tries to get comfortable. It did not help things that her back was killing her from the extra weight. "Hate that damn thing."

Asakonigei climbed on Nubi'ahlus, settling in behind her husband. She assured Malik that Nubi'ahlus would fly safely and not as rambunctious as Ba'puu. She knew her husband was not overly fond of the queen's water dragon, due to his sassy personality.

"I will make sure as soon as we arrive in Danjur, you are treated to a spa my flower." Kahli helped Zizi up, holding her tight and close once they were packed and on board.

"Thank you, Kahli." Zizi sighed, rubbing her back. "As long as I'm with you, I'll be okay. That thing just pushes my buttons." She then purred at him, giving a light tug on his chin. "But a spa would be no fun if you weren't there with me."

"Good spirits, by the time you're fifty, you're going to have team of kids for a game of ball if you keep it up." Asakonigei snorted at Zizi's flirty ways. "Then an army of grand kids."

"I don't mind having a large family." Kahli nipped at Zizi's neck. He'd enjoy massaging her all over once they were airborn.

Malik helped his wife up, and waited for the Android to get on the saddle with them. "I believe we are now ready for take off."

"Hrm, with the way your spring seasons are, I think Asa's prediction might come true." Zizi yipped slightly when Kahli nibbled at her neck. That was one of his favorite things to do, and she still was not used to it. If he was wanting her to get horny midair, then he was certainly getting her ready for it. "Maybe next time, we'll try for a little girl."

"Come on, Tod, Nubi'ahlus doesn't bite unless I tell him to." Asakonigei patted the seat on the saddle behind her. "Unless you plan on walking there."

"Statement: I'd be a very undesirable snack. Could even suffer an iron overdose."

T0-D climbed aboard, sitting around the couple. Malik made sure everyone was secure before waving back to Zarazu, who was sitting by the balcony.

~

“Their king is dead! Slay the Hylians!” Hasai warriors of the Skurge tribe surged across the fields of Hyrule at the remaining Hylian forces. Raising their hands, flames shot forward and burned away the battalions, scattering them. Zelda and Klinge had retried back to the castle, and moral was crippled for the defenders.

The Kikai Empire was full of warriors. This was glory. The smell of burning flesh of their enemies was ecstasy. One warrior laughed as he cut through soldiers screaming from the flames that they had been caught up in. The fires rose and shot forth, and the Hasai took more ground.

Ghirahim had lost sight of his master, fearing the worst. Looking down from the cliff side, he watched the Hasai overtake his battalion he had left behind. The bokoblins stood no chance as the Hasai scared them all into a corner. Once they had the monsters trapped, they slowly burned them to death. The magic of these invaders was dangerous indeed. The demon decided that retreating back to the castle would be the best course of action. Taking a horn, he blew it into the air.

Soldiers of Hyrule heard the sound and took notice. This battle was lost. “Retreat! Retreat back to the castle!”

Survivors scrambled to safety, catapult fire raining down on them. The Hasai wouldn’t advance past a certain point, but that didn’t mean they’d allow the forces of Hyrule a clean get away. Men, monsters, and horses flew into the air, fire frying the land. The Hasai shot fire into the air and raised their weapons into the air, giving a roar of victory into the air. They had won this battle.

~

Seras was practically giggling to himself as went back to the main camp. Bellum had Romtan engineers building a heavily fortified base on the valley top near the Gerudo Desert. The Prince was in such a good mood from his victory over Ganondorf that he even greeted the engineers as he passed by. “Good afternoon.”

The Romtan were heavily disturbed by the Prince being so courteous to them, but continued along their work. Seras was even impressed Bellum had quickly upgraded from a simple tent to a fortified cabin of sorts. Entering, the Prince gave a wink to one of the guards. “You’ll want to wait at my bedside after you hear what I have to say.”

Grand Admiral Bellum was calculating his next strike when Seras took the attention of the room. “Prince Seras. I take it your mission was a success?”

“Yes. I, Prince Seras of the Kikai Empire, have successfully killed Ganondorf Dragmire, King of Hyrule!”

Bellum gave a smile, placing his hand firmly on the Prince’s shoulder. He so wanted to Seras to grow out of his immaturity and prejudices he had learned from being a small child. Encouragement was key to change, and this was worth celebrating. “Well done Prince Seras. I am proud of your accomplishment.”

“I live to serve the spirit of the Empire. Our fire will control the world after all.”

“I-I want my mommy.” The sounds of a little girl broke the triumph of the room as T0-D entered with his prize. “Let me go!”

“Statement: Be silent, tiny meatbag.”

Seras grinned, his victory putting him into a twisted sense of happiness. But even he would not tolerate a brat ruining his fun mood. Turning to the little girl, he gave her slap across the face. Before anyone could interject, he launched a small blast of fire on her back. Kanisa gave a loud scream and started to cry from the pain of the tiny burn, until Seras held her mouth close. “Be. Quiet. Or I’ll burn all your hair off. Nod if you understand you little snot.”

Kanisa gave a teary nod. She was completely terrified by the ordeal. If she stayed quiet, she hoped she would see her parents and siblings again.

Grand Admiral Bellum held a light glare at the Prince. “That’s our hostage Prince Seras. Please do well to not harm her anymore. Commander Ordo.”

A Hasai stepped forward, giving a bow. “Yes Grand Admiral?”

“Go take the little Princess to the bunker at Beta-04 as planned. Hold a unit there until further orders. I will send Queen Zelda an order of surrender. If she doesn’t comply, you will execute the child.”

“Yes sir.” The soldier took the little princess and dragged her away to be transported. Kanisa prayed for someone to save her.

Seras was looking around outside for his sister, ecstatic to trade war stories. “Hey, gearhead. Where’s my sister?”

Bellum noticed that his personal Android was awfully quiet. It wasn’t like him. “T0-D. Report.”

“Statement: Princess Zannah was captured by the forces of Hyrule so that I could make my escape with the target.”

Seras’ mouth dropped low, instant disbelief taking over. Bellum’s eyes widened with shock, and even anger. “How can this be?”

“Confirmation: She engaged the Hero of Courage, Link, in one on one combat. The blonde meatbag played unfairly, launching a boomerang from behind as Zannah jumped for her mount. Honestly, it was very much a fluke that she was captured in the first place.”

Seras shook his head in denial. “No. She couldn’t have. She’s perfect.”

Bellum felt the silent fury build up in his heart. This complicated things. “Zannah must not be allowed to be used as a chip against us. I will send someone to deal with her at once.”

The Prince was taken aback by Bellum’s wording. “Deal with? You mean a rescue, correct? Not an assassination?”

“I will do what I must.”

“But-“

“Our duty comes first Prince Seras. Now go rest. You will have a town that needs to be decimated for our next strike in crippling Hyrule.”

Seras left the room, pulling at T0-D’s arm. “You need to go save my sister!”

“Negative: I cannot. Hyrule would be expecting me. I cannot assist.”

“You piece of scrap metal! You left her to die!”

“Correction: She told me to leave. I did not wish to do so, but we had lost our window of opportunity.”

Seras growled louder and louder until he launched a fire bolt into the air. “DAMN IT! I need to do SOMETHING to help her!”

“Observation: You appear to be very angry Seras. If you need assistance, perhaps you should ask your brother?”

The prince visibly turned pale from just the mention of that. “N-no. I won’t. Doing so will completely discredit Zannah and I.”

“Query: Than what will you do?”

“I… I don’t know.”

“Observation: I feel that given your current level of stress, you should relieve your body with one of the females in the camp. Or go on Bellum’s mission. Perhaps killing will help satisfy you. I’m sure Zannah will be able to free herself. She is very skilled.”

“She’s loyal to the kingdom. Which doesn’t mean she’ll want to escape…”

~

Rinku made her way down to the dungeon to see her captive. Having carried a bucket of ice cold water, she threw it on the princess to wake her up. “Hey! Rise and shine!”

Zannah gasped as she was shaken awake by the ice cold water. Moving her limbs, she found herself locked in a cell with some sort of silver gauntlets over her arms, keeping them tight together.

Her instinct were to use fire, however, she found herself unable to. The bonds made it hard to cast.  “Clever girl….”

Rinku was in no mood for small talk or pleasantries. “I want to know where my sister is.”

“Who?”

“The little girl you kidnapped!” The Hylian Hero gripped the bars in fury.

Zannah wasn’t impressed. One with Rinku’s lack of control, but mostly with herself. She had been captured, bringing shame to her family, but more importantly, jeopardizing the success of the war. A dark thought came to her mind, one she held before. In order to save her honour, she’d have to die.

With a cruel smile, Zannah shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t really care. And at this point, she’s most likely dead by now.”

Rinku lost it. Opening the cell door, she walked right in and pushed Zannah against the wall, her hands squeezing around the fiery princess’ neck. “Go to hell!”

As Zannah started to feel her life be squeezed out second by second, Zelda entered the dungeon. “RINKU! STOP!”

Her mother’s voice snapped Rinku out of her wrath, dropping Zannah to the ground. “What?! She may have well got my little sister killed!”

“We can’t kill her. Not now.”

Rinku gripped Zannah by the collar. The Hasai Princess glared at Zelda. Damnit. She really did screw things up. And she was so close to dying too. Gasping for air, she gave a light laugh before speaking. “Nice to see mommy pull your collar. Not that you could kill me so easily.”

Rinku was about the yell back, when Zelda stopped her. “Tell me dear, what is your name?”

“I am Princess Zannah of the Kikai Empire. And I know you well, Queen Zelda of Hyrule.”

The Queen quirked an eyebrow in interest. “I see. Do you have other family here in Hyrule?”

Zannah growled. “Not something I’d tell you.”

“Yeah. She has this real stuck up brother.” Rinku added in. “You and your brother are real pieces of work.”

“You and your entire country can burn.”

“You first.” Both girls locked their menacing glares at each other. “Where’s my sister you bi-“

“Rinku! That’s enough!” Zelda commanded the attention of the room with her authoritative tone. “Now young lady, I’d like to know where you have taken my daughter.”

Zannah shook her head. “That’s a secret I will take to the grave.”

Rinku was about to snap Zannah’s neck. “That can be arranged.”

Klinge entered the dungeon, heavy with news Ghirahim provided him. “Zelda. Ganondorf has been defeated.”

All three woman turned to him, surprise quickly taking over. “Commander. Explain.”

“According to Ghirahim he was overwhelmed by firepower, and he fell into the river. We haven’t found a body. And the Hasai have taken the Hylian Ridge. There forces gather, for what I can only assume is an attack on Hyrule Castle’s west side.”

Zannah gave a grin. Her brother had succeeded in his mission. “So the King of Hyrule is dead…”

Rinku turned back to her. “You’ll find my dad is not so easily killed. Without a body you have no victory yet.”

“We’ll see.”

Klinge turned his attention to the captive in the cell. “So, this is one of the Hasai royals I presume?”

“You presume correct.”

“Where have you taken Princess Kanisa?”

“I won’t speak a word to you.”

“We shall see about that.” Klinge moved past Zelda and Rinku, entering the cell. “I’m sure that you are aware of key staging grounds. And I’d assume that since you attempted to kidnap Princess Kanisa, you would be aware of where you needed to take her.”

Zannah was uncompromising in her silence. “Death before dishonour.”

“There are fates far worse than death my dear.”

Before Zelda or Rinku could stop him, Klinge took his gauntlets, and pressed deep into Zannah’s skull. “Where is her location?”

Zannah screamed aloud, blood quickly draining down her face. “S-STOP!”

Zelda would not stand for this act of barbarism. “Klinge! Stop this at once! Release her!”

“I owe you nothing Zelda.” Klinge plunged a little deeper, twisting his fingers around. “The location!”

Rinku was already grabbing the Master Sword if she needed to use it. “KLINGE! You’re killing her!”

Zelda was ready to cast her magic if she needed to, but she wanted to be diplomatic. “If you respect Ganondorf, you WILL listen to my order! Release her!!!”

Klinge wanted to continue. He wanted to make this girl suffer. His squad was butchered in her mission. She wanted to avenge Samson. But Zelda’s words held onto him more than he expected. Letting go of Zannah, he stepped away. “As you wish…”

Rinku was mad at Zannah for pulling the wool over her eyes, and for taunting her at her failure, but she never wanted this for the Hasai. “Zannah! Just breathe. Don’t fall asleep!”

Zelda and Klinge meet eye to eye, furious at each other. “Commander. We don’t torture our enemies.”

“This is war Zelda. Do you wish to see Kanisa again?”

“Not at the cost of becoming MONSTERS Klinge!”

“I am a monster Zelda. One you made me into.”

Zelda was getting sick of his attitude towards her. He always held this animosity towards her at best, hatred at worst and most felt. “I was not the one who killed you. Leave Commander.”

Klinge walked away, not caring to engage her any further. Once he was gone, Zelda quickly rushed forward to the cell. Raising her hand to Zannah’s head, she focused a spell from her hand, and healed her wounds. “Rinku. Get her some water and a cloth.”

As her daughter went to the next room, Zelda finished up the final touches. “I can’t heal the scars. But no one should see them if you keep growing your beautiful hair.”

Rinku rushed back, quickly using the damp cloth to clean the blood off Zannah’s face. “Don’t lose conscious. Mom is more of a medic than a doctor. She can’t take the pain away, but she’ll stop the damage.”  

Zannah was still in a daze, but the cool water felt good on her face. Confusion filled her mind, however. “Why… why are you being…. so nice to me?”

“We treat others with humility.” Zelda answered softly.

Zannah shook her head. “Go…. We are at war. I’m sorry… but one of us dying is inevitable.”

“I believe otherwise.”

“You hope otherwise.”

“One can have hope in their beliefs, Princess Zannah…”

Rinku was unsure how to cope with this interaction. War was terrible. She tried to reach back into her memories of any lives that took part in open warfare. They were hard to find, and it was painful to look for negative memories. Her thoughts were shaken when a spy waved her over. “I’ll be back in a bit mom. I can’t stay down here.”

“I understand. Get some air out from this awful place.”

Rinku walked away with the spy. “What is it?”

“We think we might have a lead on Princess Kanisa’s whereabouts.”

Rinku nearly screamed out in shock. “Really?!”

“Yes. A Rito spotted Hasai shuffling towards a hidden cave at the Faron Grasslands.”

Rinku nodded, checking her equipment. “I’ll go immediately.”

“Commander Klinge has already headed out.”

“He has? I better hurry to assist him than.” Grabbing her equipment, Rinku could only hope she wouldn’t be too late to save her sister.

~

Klinge had left his horse behind 100 meters back. He moved stealthily through the under growth, making sure the tree line left no room for the sun to reflect off his armour. Stalking through, he finally laid eyes on a Hasai soldier crouched behind a tree. It seemed that they were having the entrance covered. Looking around, the Commander deduced three more soldiers around the perimeter of the entrance. Crawling around, Klinge made his move.

The first guard had no idea Klinge was behind him. The undead gerudo snatched him up and swiftly snapped his neck, turning the head 180 degrees backwards. With his first victim dead, the commander continued sneaking to his next target. Using his knife, the next Hasai felt a hand going over her mouth, than a felt the blade pierce her throat from behind. Her eyes looked down to see the steel poke out her throat, and it was the last sight she ever saw as her head fell to the ground shortly after.

Klinge tossed his body aside and threw the knife into the head of the third one. As the fourth heard some commotion, he turned from his tree to fire an arrow at a target. When he saw no one was there, he went back behind the tree to check his flank. This action was rewarded with a strap of leather going around the tree and the Hasai’s head. Being pulled against the tree, the Hasai screamed and kicked, even launching fire from his hands, but Klinge did not care. The Hasai’s screams grew more grotesque as his skull popped and cracked. Klinge kept pulling, until all he heard was the sickening wet sounds against the tree and felt his target go still.

Inside the cave, Kanisa was crying to herself. The Hasai barely feed her, and they didn’t give her any warmth. The torch light to illuminate the cave was no sun. Commander Ordo was sharpening his weapons and marking his map for invasion points of interest, when a heavy knock came at the door at the end of the hall. All the soldiers turned to the disturbance, not expecting anyone to enter. Ordo rose, pointing to Kanisa. “Get against the wall.”

Turning back to the door, the Hasai summoned flames in their hands and drew weapons. The knocking stopped, and the door creaked open to reveal darkness. In the middle of the darkness, a glowing sword of fire shined from the darkness, illuminating Klinge. He wanted to give these Hasai a taste of their own death that they had come boldly into Hyrule with.

The Hasai were momentarily alarmed by the giant man in black armour. Commander Ordo threw his hand down to give the order of attack. Klinge raised his shield to block the stream of combined fire bolts sent his way. With a swift horizontal swing, he cut the first Hasai in half. Moving to his left, he smashed another soldier into the wall with his shield. The soldier crumpled to the floor, and Klinge lifted his foot to bring it down and crush the skull of his enemy, helmet and all. Running behind a pillar, he threw his shield like a frisbee against the wall.  It bounced off, and the sharp edges flew into the neck of another soldier. With poor luck though, the Hasai didn’t die, garbling blood as he fell to the floor.

Another soldier clashed blades with Klinge. The flames off Klinge’s magic fire sword shimmered. He strong enough to support the blade against another with one hand, and reaching out, he grabbed the enemy by the head, and slammed them against the wall. He continued to do this, before turning them around to take the full brunt of some flames as a human shield. The undead commander kicked the body towards the group using their magic against him. Lifting his blade, Klinge showed no mercy towards the Hasai, hacking them to pieces with his sword. Their screams filled the room, one even catching fire. The undead commander dodged and parried around strikes and bolts, cutting down man after man. One woman screamed as her hand was split in half from her raising a shot of fire, before quickly being silenced.

Commander Ordo couldn’t believe his men were being torn apart. Focusing his energy, he trained his eyes on Klinge’s sword. He was an elite commander of the Skurge tribe. Fire was his element. With the sword being the perfect target, the commander amplified the flames within. Klinge was about to hack into another soldier, when he noticed his blade vibrating. Before he could react, the sword detonated in his face. Flames swarmed over Klinge, and the Hasai Commander cheered. “Got you, you menace!”

As other Hasai approached the burning mass, Klinge jumped from the flames, summoning his great sword. With one swing, he cut through the halves of two soldiers. Without flames on his blade, blood sprayed out from the corpses. Klinge would punish all those who kidnapped Kanisa. With not even a growl, Klinge ran forward, clashing against the Hasai that remained. He took a fire bolt to the side of his chest, but he ignored the pain to push forward. The Hasai could probably manage to burn him away with time, but they had ran out of that the moment he entered the room.

With flick of his finger, an energy spear pierced the head of the soldier that shot him, his body falling towards Kanisa. Soon all that was left to give Klinge a threat was the Hasai Commander. Charging both his hands together, he launched a large steady stream of fire at Klinge. The undead Gerudo threw his great sword, the blade spinning horizontally through the fire and straight into the torso of the Skurge. His red eyes widened as he looked down to see the flames flutter from his hands and the blood leak from his torso. “B-but my conquest.”

Klinge walked forward and raised the man into the air by the blade. “Perhaps you can conquer your personal demons in hell.” With a twist of the blade, the Hasai fell to the ground in half. Klinge turned to find Kanisa, only to discover her hiding in the corner. When he stepped forward, she screamed. “NOOOOOO!!! GO AWAY!!!”

“Kanisa. It’s me, Commander Klinge.”

The young girl didn’t care. To her, this entire experience had been the same. Horrible violence. One incident after the other. This slaughter was no different than the one she witnessed by that awful, awful machine by looking through the key hole. Klinge looked down to see himself covered in blood. He didn’t even notice the arrow that hit his side until it was too late. Groaning, he pulled it out to find Rinku aiming the bow at him. She was shocked to see him, but Kanisa’s screams made her on full alert with shoot first, ask questions later on the mind.

All the bodies were a terrible sight. She knew Klinge was destructive, but this was the first time she ever saw his handy work. There had to be over two dozen bodies in this hall and the last one she passed. Putting her bow away she ran past the Darknut to pick her little sister up. She was quick to shush her and rock her. “It’s me Kanisa. It’s big sis Rinku. I got you. You’re going to safe now. You’re going to see mommy.”

Rinku made sure to hide Kanisa’s eyes from the bodies. As the three of them made it to the outdoors, Rinku took a hard look at Klinge. “You do what you do best. Stay away from Kanisa for now, and you cover my flank.”

Klinge was shocked by the way Kanisa had looked at him. Screamed at him in terror. At Rinku’s command, he could only nod. “Of course…”

Without any delay, the three rode as fast as they could back to Hryule castle.

~ Zannah slept against the wall, when she suddenly heard shifting outside her cell door. A guard fell to the ground, a black eye on his face. Stepping from the shadows, her bodyguard gave a bow. “Princess Zannah. We must hurry.”

“Fisk?”

“Yes Princess Zannah. Are you alright?”

“I think I’ll be.”

Fisk opened her cell door and quickly went to work on her lock. “One moment Princess Zannah.”

“Fisk, how did you get here?”

“Grand Admiral Bellum put in the order for a select group to either rescue or assassinate you. I couldn’t allow the latter to happen, so I decided to act on my own accord.” He finished the last of her locks, setting her down. “I came through the underground and up the sewage under the castle. Had to hurry through. Sensed monsters, but it was much safer than storming the castle.”

Zannah gripped her wrists as she was finally set free. “Thank you Fisk. Your assistance is most appreciated.”

Her bodyguard looked down at the guards that he put unconscious. “Shall we leave no witnesses?”

The Hasai Princess looked down the Hylians, thinking over the kindness Zelda showed her. Shaking her head, she simply walked away. “No. They aren’t worth our time or energy. Take me back to homebase Fisk.”

“Yes Princess Zannah, as you command.”

Princess Zannah gave a silent hope that she wouldn’t have to be the one to kill Zelda. In fact, for a brief moment, she wondered if the fighting was worth it. Her mind tossed those thoughts aside. Must have been the trauma to her head. Her people needed a new home. And they’d use their power to take it. No matter the cost.

Previous Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/183221881656/the-war-of-fire-ch-3-the-kidnapping

Zannah barely stirred as she woke, her hand squeezing the Queen’s lightly. “Dream well flying in the sky?”

"I dream I was flying over a volcano, though the flames didn't hurt me, only lifted my wings higher." Annuciata stretched lightly, snuggling closer to Zannah. "I was no longer white, but red."

“Red?”

"Yes, the flames bathed me and turned me red." Annuciata stroked Zannah's hair out of her face. "Sounds silly, doesn't it?"

“Dreams are never ‘silly’ to me. They can share with you knowledge.” Zannah gave a light smile as Annuciata pulled the hair out of her face.

"Then tell me, o wise one," Annuciata said in a teasing tone. "What do you think my dream means?"

“That you desire the freedom to burn your passions as brightly as you like. That without the shackles of your society, you can burn hot and without limit.” Zannah was completely sincere.

"Such beautiful words, Zannah, such a lovely thought." Annuciata kissed her lightly with a deep, dreamy sigh. "Do you have to go back to Kikai?"

“After negotiations, I do.” Zannah kissed Annuciata back. “Talk to me. You miss me before I leave?”

"I don't want you to leave. It seems like I have so many pretty things here, but I don't want to give up the one true beauty." Annuciata held Zannah's hand tightly. "Sorry, I probably sound selfish. I know you have a duty to your people as well."

“If you married me, it would be no issue. Our Kingdoms as partners. Be selfish together with me”

"You feel that strongly? That... bond sense your people have?" Annuciata asked curiously, shifting a little under the covers. "I want to... but I will still have to have a child." She held a finger to Zannah's lips. "I was thinking, and I have a plan."

Zannah kissed her finger. “Tell me.”

"An old childhood friend of mine, well, I use the term 'friend' here, lightly, has recently brought forth an offer of marriage." Annuciata explained to Zannah. "My brothers approve, my council approves, and he has high standing within the community. I was thinking of accepting it," She then added with a sneaky smile. "And then in a tragic accident after the marriage consummated."

Zannah’s face was still, until she gave a light smile. “I don’t suppose there’s any way I can help?”

"What would be the most discreet way to be rid of him?"

“I once had a vision of what my life could have been after the war. Sold off as a whore, only for a young customer to fall in love with me. To keep me from ever taking the throne, the Theron Elite of my kingdom, tracked me down and my lover traveling through the woods. With a single arrow, they detonated myself, my cart, and my family. Worst part of that vision was watching a pet puppy being blown to pieces as well. The thought of being silently hunted down in the woods has been haunting to me ever since.” Zannah took a moment to take a breath. Her visions of possible visions always gave her worry. So vivid. So violent.

"... it didn't come true, did it?"

Zannah shook her head. “No. I’m still here, aren’t I? Was the first vision I ever had. Some of them have come true of the years, but many not. I am glad that was not one of them. Yet a similar fate could happen to another being.”

"I'm glad that the vision didn't come true. I don't like to see others suffer." Annuciata then asked Zannah. "Do you think it's a bad plan?"

“It’s the best plan. I don’t have to like it, but so long as we are together, lives are but an obstacle. I can have someone loyal, trained, and discreet to carry out the deed when needed. It would be a shame for your husband to die alone without his wife in a forest.”

"I'll get what I need from him, and he'll simply be a means to an end." Annuciata kissed Zannah's knuckles. "The council will be none the wiser."

"I love the way you think." Zannah straddled the Queen's hips, lying over her. Her small breasts were perky and she tied her hair back. "Do you think I'm beautiful my darling?~"

"You're like nothing I've ever seen," Annuciata had no reason to lie. "Like a rare gem, waiting to be discovered. I could look at you all day."

"Please do. You don't need an emerald ring when you have me."

"Tsk, emeralds could never compare to you." Annuciata sighed and closed her eyes once more. "I don't want to get up. Not yet. I just want to lay in bed all day with you."

Zannah laid on top of the queen, chest to chest. Her head snuggled close next to Annuciata's neck. "Neither do I. Let's wait an hour, shall we?"

"Sounds like a marvelous idea to me, though I do have a question." Annuciata ran her fingers through Zannah's silky hair. "How does this... I think you called it a bond? How does that work?"

"I feel a deep sense of protection for you. I can't make love with another being as long as you are alive. If you die before me... it could have the potential of breaking me. You are the fire that burns in my heart." Zannah was hesitant when she asked her next question. "Do you love me as I have come to love you?"

"You're going to think I'm daft, but as soon as I saw you in my throne room, I was half tempted to lock you in my quarters and never let you go." Annuciata turned slightly red at admitting such words. "Not only were you beautiful, but you were not afraid. I did not sense any fear from you, you held your head high, and walked with an air of confidence. Though how you talked to me, how you spoke of your devotion to your people, your family, trying for a better future... not many rulers have such passion." The queen embraced Zannah gently. "I love you now... but I know that love will only grow within time."

Zannah felt relief. Moving closer, she held her head close to Annuciata's own. "I admired your confidence. Your control of power. And I admire your abilities to use the power you have to give your people the brightest future they can receive. There's nothing daft about you."

"There's still some things I wish I could change about myself." Annuciata told Zannah as she kissed her. "I still wish I really had a pair of wings. Though, I suppose I could settle for the way you make me feel." She held Zannah's cheek. "It's a different type of flying, sure, but it's still wonderful."

Zannah lifted Annuciata on top of her to get better look at her. "How about his my angel?"

Lifting her high, she made the Queen feel warm as she was raised breathlessly into the air.

"Wow... you're so strong." Annuciata turned dark red in the cheeks. "I wouldn't object to this everyday."

Zannah spun Annuciata around lightly, before finally setting her down on top of her. The Emperor gave a cheeky, but proud smile. "More intelligent, powerful, and stronger than any man. How's that make you feel~"

"I think the word you're looking for is 'satisfied'?" Annuciata replied with just as much cheek. "Highly satisfied?"

"Unbelievably so." Zannah pulled Annuciata in for a deep kiss, pressing her lips as hard as she could go. She wanted to take her lover's breath away.

"Hmmm-mmm." Annuciata's moan was muffled against Zannah's lips. As the kiss parted, the queen then suggested with a giggle, "You know... I think an hour is enough time to have a little more fun before the meeting."

"I think it indeed is. What do you have in mind? I'm open to anything."

"I'm very, very curious..." Annuciata ran a single finger down Zannah's chest, in-between the valley of her breasts, to her navel. "Whether that fiery talent of yours can be used to give me that blissful feeling all over."

"Whatever do you mean? I can't burn you alive now."

"That feeling I felt during the massage. Is there something similar with that ability to making love?"

Zannah gave a deep thought to it, until she finally got an answer. "Do you own a strap on?"

"I thought you'd never ask." Annuciata's grin spread from ear to ear.

Once they had the right tools, Zannah stood above Annuciata, giving a chuckle as her thigh brushed the Queen's cheek. "Your Emperor demands you start her engine up. Lather me~"

"Oh, need some help?" Annuciata took the lube and started to run her hands up and down the strap on. "What plan do you have?"

Zannah jacked the strap on, her flames filling it with energy. She hadn't roll played since she was a child, but perhaps pretend would be fun here. "First you can suck my dick while you get yourself ready for my royal penetration~"

Annuciata decided to amuse Zannah with this little game. She took the tip of the strap on into her mouth, letting her lips wrap around it. Then she swirled her tongue with the strawberry flavored lube. This was while her fingers teasingly rubbed over Zannah's moist passage.

Zannah gave a low hum as her body grew excited. Watching the Queen's eyes stay on her at all times was sexy for her. Pulling out, she positioned Annuciata on her hands and knee's. Giving her ass a hot smack, her hands settled on the Queen's back, starting to massage her. Once again the Queen felt that desirable feeling she longed for, but what came next would be nothing compared to what came before. Zannah put her magic and energy into the shaft, the black rubber starting to glow blue. With a deep sigh, the Emperor pushed deep into the Queen's wet entrance.

Moaning at the intense heat, Annuciata shuddered at the feeling. Zannah had that talent of making her feel like she was swimming in a volcano. It only took a few thrusts of Zannah's working magic and Annuciata saw stars... then blackness.

When she woke, she found that both her and Zannah were clothed, and Zannah's two Theron guards were checking the Queen's vitals. "Emperor Zannah. Queen Annuciata is coming to. Her health appears to be stable."

"Hrmm-mmmh?" Annuciata felt sort of... hungover almost, but without the headache. It was that dazed feeling. "Zannah?" She tried to sit up but felt a little dizzy. "What happened?"

"I... I overloaded your senses. The pleasure was too much for you. I think it almost gave you a stroke." Zannah checked Annuciata's forehead. "Are you feeling alright? I never meant to put you into any danger."

"Death by orgasm... what a way to go..." Annuciata giggled a little. "I feel a little... lightheaded."

Zannah sighed. At least Annuciata thought it was funny. One of Zannah's guards gave the Queen some juice, and the two women stood together, Zannah carefully taking the lead. "We'll go easy, step by step, but your council and the diplomats of Hyrule expect us."

"Hrm? Oh, juice... hehehe, love juice..." Annuciata sounded like she had a little too much to drink, but took the juice and sipped on it slowly. Her feet felt like they were floating. She stumbled along with Zannah. "Meeting... right, right, I have one of those today."

"Yes. We both do. You look beautiful. I hope you like the dress I picked out for you." Zannah gave her a quick kiss before they entered the meeting hall together.

"Wait, dress?" Annuciata looked at her body, seeing that the outfit matched. "Hrm... nice, I planned to just... eat you out for the rest of the day, but stupid meetings..." As soon as the pair were in the hall together, Zannah helped Annuciata take her seat and the Queen of Danjur pulled out her fan to hide part of her face.

Malik had been wondering what took them so long. It looked as though the Queen of Danjur was not all there. To his right, he was taken aback by Zizi wearing tribal tattoos. Perhaps she wanted to look her best before the final meeting ended. He could barely stand small talk with the Queen's brothers, so he was looking forward to get over with this so he could go back home. "Queen Annuciata. Emperor Zannah. I'd like to open up today's negotiations with what Hyrule needs of both Danjur and the Kikai Empire."

"Very well, Lord Malik." Annuciata gestured with a wave of her hand. "Do continue."

Zizi had made sure to save her best outfit for last. She had a long talk with Kahli the previous night. The Zemlja was honest with her husband, telling him her fears and worries. After their long conversation, Zizi and Kahli both felt better. The couple could move forward with better understanding. Malik and Asakonigei had some words over the history books found in the library, but both arrived at the conclusion that the past would be sooner than later. After spending some time together out in the lovely city, Asakonigei made sure to tell her husband how much she loved him, and that their queen would understand the past was the past.

"For the people of Danjur, Hyrule seeks a 5% increase for our spices do to a shortage this year, we wish to extend an offer to send Lorleidian students to your academic universities, and lastly we ask for additional assistance in supply ships for the people of Uskar."

"We will comply with the spice request, and you know our universities are always open to any students." Annuciata then questioned. "Just supply ships? Heavy duty cargo ships only, Lord Malik?"

"In addition with the food, weapons would also be appreciated in their fight against the Frost Ones."

"Oh, I see, this is for the... the Direnors, correct?"

"Yes. Do my requests sound reasonable?"

"Yes, and I will see to it that the nation of Uskar receives aid from Danjur. An ally of Hyrule's, is an ally of Danjur's." Annuciata then added. "Is there anything else, Lord Malik?"

"Not for you, Queen Annuciata." Malik turned his attention to the Emperor. "Emperor Zannah. In Zarazu's interest, I think I speak for her that the information of you restarting your war factories is alarming. I assume this means you are training warriors for a new army."

"Soldiers, Lord Malik. And you are correct. My people are natural fighters. It's in our blood. However, rest assured, I have no plans of conquest. This world has showed me there are many great threats to us in the shadows. Should my allies need them, I could have a private militia trained within three years to assist against any enemy. For a price of course."

"Of course... but that sounds like a warrior to me. I know all too well the feeling to fight and kill. I can only imagine how your people must feel it burn inside them."

"Yes. You are Hyrule's most blood thirsty warrior. I'm sure you know all about the thrill of a fight, Klinge of the Gerudo."

Zannah let her words sting and hang in the air. Malik's eyes didn't flare, instead icily staring back into Zannah's golden eyes.  

"We want regulations on your weaponry."

"You want regulations. And the answer is no. The Kikai Empire will grow strong with our heads high above the sky."

"You made a deal with Zelda and Ganondorf to-"

"Who are no longer Queen and King. That treaty passed. The Hasai have complete authority to flex and evolve our military might as we see fit for our personal interest and the interest of our allies. Now I doubt that there is anything Hyrule wanted from us besides having us join as allies with Danjur. Congratulations my Lord, you have succeeded."

Zannah looked at Zizi and Asakonigei to see if they would speak up. Looking back to the Gerudo Lord she continued her menacing gaze. "The Kikai Empire will continue the regular trade. And we will contact other allies if they need assistance."

Malik was furious with Zannah, wanting to snap her neck. He also heard that damned Android laugh at him from behind. The Emperor whispered to Annuciata. "Do you know of his abilities? He is a grand warrior, but his lordship is to be desired."

"While Empress Zannah may restart her war factories, we all know this to be true," Annuciata spoke gracefully and with precision to try to lessen Lord Malik's worry. She knew this would come up eventually, and had an idea of how to address it to please Zannah and Malik. "The Kikai Empire is small and is still recovering from the hydra's poison, and I highly doubt their number of warriors could ever possibly hope to rival Danjur's, Labrynna's, and or Hyrule's put together. Your worries are for naught. Empress Zannah has no desire for a repeat of past mistakes." She then turned to Zannah with a smile. "Right, Empress? It was even part of my deal with her to say that Danjur will not be caught in the middle."

"Dear sister, are you sure this is the best idea?" Dario asked. "War factories or not, their people are highly dangerous."

"Not to mention, the Kikai Empire has made some... unfavorable choices in the past." Enzio added his thoughts. "What if the Empress decides to turn on us?"

"Dear, sweet brothers, your worries are for naught. I'll hear no more of it." Annuciata then snapped her fan blades together, and looked at Malik in interest. "Klinge... I've heard that name so many times before. I thought that was an undead husk of a man walking around? A man who desires nothing but blood."

"He has since changed, Queen Annuciata," Asakonigei squeezed Malik's hand. "Due to the kindness of our Queen."

"We are dangerous Dario. But as your wise Queen has put it, we would not stab our allies in the back. If I had a desire to turn on you, I'd tell it to your face Enzio. And could do nothing about it as you burned. But it is not my desire to bring war to peaceful nations." Zannah was tired of people trying to undermine her, so she gave the twins something to keep them quiet with their tails between their legs.

Malik eyes burned, ignoring his wife in his rising anger. "I was. Klinge was the greatest warrior Hyrule ever had. And even among the living, I still am. As I told you before, I've taken many names, Queen Annuciata. Power is my house under the three sacred goddesses. And I will use all my power at my disposal in the service and protection of Hyrule."

"Power, you say?" Annuciata mused with a small smile. "It sounds like you have a neverending thirst for conquest. How about a demonstration?"

"A demonstration?" Malik's first targets in his sight were the Hasai. T0-D stepped closer to Zannah, in case he was given an order to engage.

"Your wife has brought her metal puppets, and we all know of your... tasteful past." Annuciata rolled her wrist at the implication. "You love power so much, how about you clear your head of worries? A small duel?"

"Against my wife?" Klinge looked towards her. It felt wrong to even ask her that.

"No, silly, against the... um..." Annuciata thought for a moment and then looked T0-D up and down. "This! This majestic creation."

Zannah looked at T0-D, than back to Annuciata. "You wish for Tod to fight? He is a combat android, but Lord Malik and him have history."

"Confirmation: Yes. We do."

T0-D spoke quietly, scanning Malik closely and retrieving old combat memories. Malik stood from the table, but his body language wasn't full of confidence. It held restraint.

Zannah looked to the Danjur council, than to Zizi and Asakonigei. "Does anyone have any objections?"

"I think what everyone needs is a way to blow off steam," Annuciata simply stated. "The Kikai Empire and Hyrule have bad blood, so let's have a little duel, settle your differences, and go from there." The Queen of Danjur shrugged her shoulders. "It's a suggestion that I believe will help in the long run. However, if you do not wish to fight, then I'm open to suggestions."

"I... don't think Lord Malik should fight." Zizi finally spoke up from her seat. "There's no need for further violence. This would only tempt Lord Malik to going back to his old identity. To Klinge."

"No. I will give the Queen what she wants." Malik flicked his cap back clenched his metal fist.

Kahli nodded, agreeing with his wife, but little could be done.

"Now, Queen Annuciata, where would you like this duel to take place?"

"I'll fight!" Asakonigei stood up suddenly, grasping Malik's hand. "I'll fight. I'll use my puppets. You don't have to do this, love."

"No. He will fight." Zannah turned to T0-D. "Try not to kill. Three strike duel. Rules of engagement mean that the one to make three clean strikes on the opponent wins the duel. That agreeable to you Queen Annuciata? Lord Malik?"

"I can agree to that."

"Sounds plausible to me." Annuciata noticed how worried Asakonigei was for her husband. "No killing, shiny robot. I won't have blood on my beautiful courtyards."

"Malik, please!" Asakonigei pleaded with her husband.

"Statement: I promise you that this time, without help, I will not be turned into scrap."

"I've gotten wiser since the war Android." Malik squeezed his wife's hand. "I have to do this. To maintain my humanity and honour."

"But..." Asakonigei wanted to protest further but knew there was no changing Malik's mind. "... just... come back to me in one piece, okay?"

"I really don't think this is a good idea." Zizi said under her breath again.

"Self Reflection: How more fun this would be if Zizi was my opponent. Real piece of garbage that one is."

Walking to the courtyard, the spectators gathered around. Malik drew a single katana as his weapon of choice. He wanted a swift and agile weapon. On his back he had a short sword if he so desired for duel wielding. T0-D's eye flashed from blue to red. "Statement: I have studied our last battle closely. I wonder what chance as a human you have over being an undead."

"I have more to lose."

T0-D drew two handles. Each handle at the touch of the button drew two blue glowing blades. They were guardian weaponry, the same origin as him. The Android made the first move, striking fast and downwards, with Malik raising his blade horizontally to block the first strike.

Kahli held his wife's hand close, and looked at her seriously. "Watch close. This is why I encourage you not to antagonize T0-D."  

"You can kiss my brown ass, robot." Zizi muttered bitterly as T0-D took the stance against Malik. "Oh, I know what he can do, Kahli, Zannah told me. I have no doubt that he'd be a formidable opponent. It's not that I doubt his abilities. my love..." The Zemlja held his hand tighter in return. "It's that I simply do not like him."

Asakonigei was a nervous wreck. She kept praying silently to Kovina to keep her husband safe. The metal spirit was a fan of those who desired strength and triumph. Hopefully, the metal god would watch over her lover.

"This should prove interesting, don't you think?" Annuciata asked Zannah.

"Yes. T0-D and Klinge nearly killed each other in the war. I want to see how this fight plays out."

T0-D's torso suddenly moved on it's own, spinning like a tornado, and his blades spinning in a blur with him. Malik barely held onto his sword as the Android clanked against his defences faster the normal eye could manage to spot. The spinning came to a stop as T0-D used the cover of the blades spinning glow to mask his foot leaning back for a kick. His clawed foot smashed against Malik's chest, getting a loud moan of pain out of the man. It didn't count as a strike of the blade, but it made room for one. Or so T0-D thought. In his lighter armour, Malik took the heavy kick and rolled backwards. Once he was on his feet, he leapt forward to make a daring lunge. His katana scarped against T0-D's hip, and the Gerudo warrior spun around to face his opponent, glad he made the first strike.

Zannah was displeased, until she saw T0-D make a daring counter attack. The Android threw his blade to his foot, and his talons latched onto the weapon. Still activated, and with extra length, he caught Malik off guard, and the Gerudo received his first injury in his new body. A sword through the thigh.

T0-D pulled out his leg and kicked the sword back to his left hand. The Android quickly advance once more, pushing Malik quickly on the defensive with his leg starting to bleed out.

"Oh spirits." Zizi put her face in Kahli's chest. "I can't watch this. I don't like fighting, I don't like people getting hurt." The Zemlja had experience in battle, but she was never fond of combat.

Asakonigei, on the other hand, was a nervous wreck. Each blow against her husband, she felt her breath hitching. Her fingers itched to move him away from T0-D. She wanted to protect him against anymore harm. Malik had been through enough in his lifetime, why make him repeat more of this grisly fighting?

Malik, although a human, had nothing mere about him. He was able to defend himself against the sonic speed of T0-D's strikes. And despite his wound, he focused to ignore it, and concentrate on his opponents attacks and weaknesses. Mustering a strategy, the Gerudo Lord focused his magic, and launched two energy spears at the Android. T0-D's guardian blades could defend himself with a parry, but it left him open.

"Query: We can use magic now?"

Zannah clenched her fist in worry that the battle could escalate further in T0-D's defeat.

Malik threw another spear and T0-D parried again. When the Gerudo swiped his sword, the Android could only block with one hand. Malik drew his short blade, and made a cut across the Android's chest. He wondered, that despite T0-D not bleeding, if he felt pain. He cut deep enough to leave a large scratch.

Swinging downwards with both blades, Malik hoped to end the duel quickly, with T0-D defending himself from the vertical strikes. It was 2-1 for the Gerudo so far.

"This is proving to be far more entertaining than I thought, Empress." Annuciata told Zannah. "I thought for sure your robot would have a huge advantage over Lord Malik. It appears I was wrong."

"Please be careful, please be careful..." Asakonigei whispered under her breath as she watched the fight continue. She wanted to cheer each time her husband dealt a powerful blow, but did not want to risk distracting him.

"Just watch. T0-D will use the unorthodox."

If T0-D had eyes they would have narrowed. His arms suddenly split in half, still able to hold up the force of Malik's strength with his first two blades. Malik's eyes widened, hoping it wouldn't come to this. To Zizi, Kahli, Asakonegei, and Annuciata's surprise, T0-D took two more guardian swords, and activated them. His 3rd and 4th weapons pushed Malik back, and he suddenly had to deal with torrent of blades attacking him. T0-D spun two blades like a whirlwind. Malik hated this trick, as sparks flew up from the blades repeatedly striking the ground over and over. When the Gerudo smash against it, T0-D used his lower arms to swipe wildly. The Gerudo Lord screamed in pain as his hip was cut open. Malik growled, using both his weapons to defend himself, but T0-D held the clear advantage now.

"Oh, I had no idea your robot was so creative, Empress." Annuciata watched as T0-D increased his speed and method of attack against Malik. "He does know not to kill him, right?"

"Spirits!" Asakonigei jumped when Malik was struck by one of the blades. Her husband did not scream, he never showed pain. This was bad. "Get up, get up, come on, do something!"

Kahli held his wife's hand, wanting to protect her, the violence making him worried.

Zannah gave Annuciata's hand a light squeeze, and a quick kiss with everyone so heavily distracted on the fight. "He knows. Won't be his fault if he bleeds out first. But I have faith in him to hold on before T0-D beats him."

Malik felt his adrenaline spike. His breath grew hotter. The Gerudo Lord didn’t know how long he could keep his defenses up. Every time he tried to throw an energy spear, the Android simply parried them, having all his area covered. T0-D scanned his vitals, and knew he was winning. "Statement: You are a bold one, Lord Malik. But you lack the soul to win."

Zizi did not watch, and Annuciata was highly entertained.

Asakonigei, however, was feeling the dread creep up in her chest. The memories of fighting against Vul'kar resurfaced. How many friends fought alongside her that day? How many were injured? How many did she lose? When T0-D raised his blade once more to gain another winning strike, while her husband was down, Asakonigei could not stand it anymore. Her fear overrode her common sense. Jumping off the balcony, the Kovina landed on her feet and pulled as hard as she could against T0-D's blade. All five of her puppets rushed in front of her husband, making sure to guard him on all sides.

"You're not hurting him anymore, Tod." Asakonigei held T0-D's blade in place with one hand and with the other controlled her metal knights. "I've lost too many people already, I'm not losing my husband." Her eyes were dilated wide, an indication of her terror getting the best of her.

T0-D's first instinct was to point his head at Asakonigei and start his laser, a steady red beam pointing at her. Malik looked to his wife, shocked that she jumped down to him. "Asa, step away. Please don't get involved."

Zannah was displeased. "You dishonour your husband, Lady Asakonigei. He was fighting well, and finally held my respect."

"Shut up." Asakonigei snapped at Zannah. "I know Tod has history with my husband and I'd rather him be mad at me than lose him. I dishonor no one by protecting what is mine." The metal knights shifted into an attack stance. "I am not going to give Tod the opportunity to finish the job he felt he should have done years ago."

"Oooh... I admire your wit and fire, Lady Asakonigei." Annuciata actually laughed. "I have to give you credit when it is due; you Lorleidians protect your loved ones quite fiercely."

"Asa, what are you doing?!" Zizi exclaimed. "You're going to get hurt! You know how dangerous that robot is!"

"Shush, Zizi!" Asakonigei kept her eyes on Tod. "Dangerous or not, friend or not, I will fight him to protect my husband."

"Asa... this fight was mine to bare." Malik slowly rose, still pointing his sword at T0-D.

The Android was miffed, as Malik stepped away, he turned to the puppets, and fired. Detonating three of them, T0-D deactivated his swords. "Angry Statement: You are overdramatic, Asakonigei. If I wanted to kill him, your husband would be dead. If you value any friendship, step away."

"I am a good wife, Malik." Asakonigei's voice was hard. "I try to ask for little and I stay by your side. You will not deny me this." She kept her focus on Tod, not too upset by his little reaction to detonating her metal puppets. "Say what you want, Tod, but Zizi it seems, was right about one thing. You're a brilliant piece of technology and I admire your skills, but..." Asakonigei frowned at the robot, simply curled her wrist and the metal pieces floated back together in the shape of the knights. It was difficult to defeat a Kovina when metal was their talent. "Do you understand... fear? I was afraid of losing my husband. I still am, always will be. If you call that being overdramatic, then you do not understand fear."

"Kahli," Zizi whispered to her husband. "Asa's acting on panic right now. Look at her eyes."

"Hm. It seems you might have a point, Lady Asakonigei." Annuciata then asked the robot. "Tell me, Toddy-Gears... do you feel fear? It seems there is nothing that scares you. Most impressive, all three of you. Lord Malik's skills, Toddy's technology and Lady Asakonigei's resolve. There is much to admire."

"Conformation: I do feel fear. Why do you think I tried my best to win against him?" T0-D turned his gaze to Malik, who was now standing tall. "I do not wish to destroyed by you again."

Malik would normally take great pride in this, and perhaps even gloated in the past. But now, this fight had taught him how fragile mortality could be. The blood that dripped from him was limited, and his body ached from his wounds inflicted. If T0-D wanted to be weary of him, he wouldn't dispel that notion. In fact, he'd keep it secret as his advantage over the android.

Kahli wouldn't interfere, but his gaze was on the Emperor. If she did anything, he'd be the only one with the potential to combat her.

"I thought technology could not feel." Annuciata tapped her fingers on the armrest of the chair. "An intriguing development, wouldn't you say, Empress?" The Queen of Danjur trailed a single finger of Zannah's hand, in a flirty manner, a small smirk on her face. "Do see that Lord Malik gets the medical attention he needs," The queen ordered her servants. "And um... well, Toddy-Gears, if you need any metal to replace your parts or such, please let me know."

"What's she thinking?" Zizi whispered to Kahli. "Will Zannah react?"

"Good. I'm glad I'm wrong." Asakonigei used her magic to help Malik stay steady in his armored suit without the others knowing. She could tell he was hurting. "You're wise to listen to that sense of fear."

"Statement: Your husband is the only one to have defeated me. Although he did have help. And was undead. Will need to calculate my thoughts further on this development..." T0-D walked away, his feet clicking with each step.

Zannah gave her Android a nod of respect. "You did well in defeating Lord Malik, through interference of course, but still a victory none the less."

"Reaction: Why thank you, my Emperor."

"Go get your gear looked over. When we return to the Empire I will have you polished."

Malik held his wife close. "I suppose that this officially ends negotiations here for the trip here."

Zizi gave a notable sigh of relief when T0-D walked away, not noticing how tightly she had been holding onto Kahli. Asakonigei turned and looked at her husband, letting her metal knights relax. Her face was pale and she looked like she had seen a ghost.

"Please never do that again." Asakonigei spoke so softly, it was almost inaudible.