**A Discordant Refrain**

The familiar melody of the castle's courtyard had been disrupted for days, as Princess Zelda and Princess Victoria continued to clash over the merits of Link as a protector. Zelda, resplendent in her golden gown, stood tall, her long, flowing hair a fiery mane that framed her determined face. Beside her, Link stood at attention, his soft, smooth skin and gentle features a stark contrast to the imposing armor he wore. Victoria, clad in dark, foreboding attire, scowled as she surveyed the scene before her. "I'm telling you, Zelda, a Hylian is not suited for protection. They're too...soft. A sturdy Goron or a lithe, agile Zora would be far more effective." Zelda's eyes narrowed. "Link has proven himself time and time again. He's brave, loyal, and—" "And woefully inadequate," Victoria cut in, her voice rising. "But I have a solution that could change that. My castle's wizard, Malakai, has the power to...improve your precious Link." Zelda's expression turned skeptical. "Improve him? What do you mean?" Victoria's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Malakai can grant Link new abilities, make him more formidable. For instance, he could make Link poisonous. Just imagine it, a protector who could strike fear into the hearts of your enemies." Zelda's face reddened. "I don't think that's necessary, Victoria. Link is more than capable as he is." Victoria snorted. "Capable? Ha! You're not taking this seriously, Zelda. But I am. And I'm also tired of your... distractions." Zelda's eyes flashed with annoyance. "What are you talking about?" Victoria's gaze turned cold. "You know exactly what I'm talking about. That thing you do with the violin. The... teleportation. I didn't ask to be transported to ancient Egypt, Zelda. I didn't ask to be a part of your little adventures." Zelda's face paled, and she glanced at Link, who was watching the exchange with a concerned expression. She had indeed used her magical violin to transport Victoria to ancient Egypt, without warning or explanation. It had been a moment of desperation, but she knew it had been thoughtless. "Victoria, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to—" "Sorry?" Victoria's voice rose. "You're always sorry, Zelda. But you never change. And now, you're putting your kingdom at risk with your...inadequate protector." The argument continued, with no end in sight. Zelda was growing sick and tired of Victoria's constant criticism, and Link's patience was wearing thin. As the tension between them escalated, the stage was set for a confrontation that would shake the very foundations of the kingdom. In the midst of the argument, Link shifted uncomfortably, his eyes locked on Victoria, his hand on the hilt of his sword. Zelda placed a restraining hand on his arm, trying to calm him down. "Victoria, let's not discuss this further. I think we've made our positions clear." But Victoria was not to be silenced. "No, Zelda. I think it's time you listened to me. I'm trying to help you, even if you don't appreciate it." As the debate raged on, Zelda couldn't shake the feeling that Victoria's words were not entirely altruistic. There was something more at play here, something that Victoria was not telling her. And Zelda was determined to find out what it was.