The Legend: Part II

The Legend: Part II: Chapter 18 - Graduation

Zelda's P.O.V

It was hard to sit still throughout the ceremony. I was itching to tell Link of the news but at the same time I feared he would be angry. A child added to this mess would complicate so much. Hyrule's fate is in my hands. Should I tell Link? If he knew that I was pregnant he would never allow Armani and I marry. But isn't that what I wanted? I dislike Armani immensely, but to deny him would endanger my kingdom. My happiness does not factor in the lives of the millions inhabited in Hyrule. They are my main priority. But still....Link deserves to know. After all he is the father. I felt so at war with myself. There was no one I could talk to to receive guidance or advice. "Oh Impa I wish you were here." I whispered to myself. "What was that?" Armani questioned as he leaned towards me. "Oh nothing!" I exclaimed as I squirmed in my chair. "Is something the matter Zelda?" Armani asked. "I'm just still feeling a bit under the weather, don't mind me!" I explained. Armani shrugged and sat back in his chair.  As time went on the recruits began to finish up their exam. Most of the group managed to pass the various tests Link had organized for them. I couldn't be prouder. He had managed to train a group of completely unexperienced men and turn them into soldiers within a few months. Link returned to my side. He arrived with a bow and then directed his attention towards the recruits who passed their exam. "Congratulations to all of you who have made it this far. You are all now solider of the Queen's Royal Guard. Now you must step forward and swear your allegiance to our fair Queen Zelda." Link spoke to the crowd. Each man in the crowd placed their right arm firmly over their chests as they repeated what Link said to them. "I swear to protect the innocent and serve faithfully under Queen Zelda's rule. I vow to fight for Hyrule and its treasures." They all said in unison. I then stood only to feel a sudden rush. I was currently dizzy and tried to steady myself. I swayed a bit before Armani caught my arm and urged me to sit down. Link came rushing to my side only to be brushed off by Armani. "I've got this taken care of." Armani snapped. Link frowned as he pushed the prince aside and reached out to me. Link placed his hand on my cheek and I subtlety leaned into it. "Why I never!" Armani exclaimed as he shoved Link back. "Keep your spoiled hands off of me." Link warned. "Or what? What is a nobody like you going to do about it?" Armani taunted. Link physically tensed. "I'd watch that tongue of yours." Link warned. "Or what?" Armani questioned again.  "I'll cut it out." Link threatened. "Such a threat is treason." Armani stated. "I am no Terminan." Link sneered through gritted teeth. "You just threatened the King of Hyrule." Armani corrected. "You are no king! You haven't even married the Queen yet." Link laughed. "Do you wish to die?" Armani inquired. "I will die one day but it will not be by your hand." Link stated. "Boys enough..." I begged silently as I struggled to keep my eyes open. I was fading and fast. The pregnancy was taking a heavy toll on me and of all moments it had to be now. "Enough! Can't you see the Queen needs medical attention." King Daltus shouted. Both Armani and Link stared at me with guilt. "Are you okay?" Link asked as he knelt by my side. "I'm just feeling a bit nauseous. Can you two please stop fighting?" I begged. "He started it!" Armani exclaimed. "Don't act like such a child!" Link shouted. "You insulted me! There will be consequences for your actions!" Armani swore. "And I accept them graciously." Link mocked. Suddenly the recruits began whopping and cheering at Link's response. Link then turned to me and scooped me up in his arms. "Fetch her majesty's carriage! She needs to return to the castle." Link commanded. The recruits spread apart to make room for Link as he carried me towards the carriage. Ronin opened the door and   nodded at Link in acknowledgment. Link then placed me into the carriage gently. "Go with Zelda and take her to your sister. She is the best healer I know. Wait for me there I will be there shortly." Link instructed to Ronin. He squeezed my hand lovingly before he closed the carriage door. "I'll see you soon." Link promised as he waved me off.