**The Dark Protocols**

Ryker and Kaida reappeared in the grand hall, their footsteps echoing off the stone floor. "It's time to remove the crystal, Your Highness," Ryker said, bowing low to Zelda. Zelda nodded, her eyes still flashing with unease. Kaida carefully lifted the crystal from Zelda's palm, and Ryker took it back, tucking it into his belt. "Now, if you'll permit us, we'll need to prepare the... additional security measures," Ryker said, his expression neutral. Kaida stepped forward, holding a small tray with four objects that looked ominous and foreboding. Zelda's eyes widened as she took in the sight of the instruments. The first object was a **Darksnare**, a long, thin cord with tiny, hook-like protrusions that seemed to gleam in the light. The second was a **Soul Anchor**, a heavy, iron weight with a delicate, crystal-tipped hook that looked like it could pierce skin with ease. The third was a **Shadow Mask**, a black, featureless visor that seemed to absorb the light around it, leaving only an unsettling void. The fourth was a **Heartstring**, a thin, almost translucent thread that seemed to vibrate with an otherworldly energy. Zelda's suspicion grew as she looked at the objects, her mind racing with the implications. She knew that these items were for securing someone, and she had a strong suspicion that they were meant for Link. Azura stepped forward, her voice calm and reassuring. "Zelda, everything is going to be fine. These precautions are just... necessary." But Link was not convinced. "Wait, what's going on here? You can't just... restrain me like this!" he protested, taking a step back. Azura's expression turned stern, and she gave him a look that seemed to say, "You'd better do what you're told." Link's eyes flickered, and he hesitated, before nodding reluctantly. Ryker began the process, carefully wrapping the Darksnare around Link's wrist, securing it with a small, intricate lock. The hooks seemed to dig into Link's skin, but he didn't flinch. Next, Kaida attached the Soul Anchor to Link's belt, the crystal-tipped hook glinting menacingly. The weight of the anchor seemed to pull Link down, as if it was already exerting its influence. Ryker then placed the Shadow Mask over Link's face, the black visor seeming to swallow his features whole. Link's eyes were hidden, and his breathing was the only sound he made. Finally, Kaida tied the Heartstring around Link's neck, the thread vibrating with an eerie energy. Link's eyes flickered, and he seemed to shudder, but he remained still. As the guards finished their task, they bowed and departed, leaving the princesses and Link alone. Azura turned to Zelda, her voice calm and soothing. "Zelda, I know this seems frightening, but it's for the best. We can't take any chances." But Zelda was furious. "You're using these... these instruments on Link? How could you, Azura? He's our friend, our ally!" Azura's expression turned cold, and she raised her voice. "You don't understand, Zelda. This is necessary. Link's... potential is too great to be ignored. We have to control it, for his own good and for the good of Eldrid." The two princesses erupted into a heated argument, their voices rising and falling in a crescendo of anger and fear. Link stood silently, his face hidden behind the Shadow Mask, his eyes fixed on the two women as they clashed.