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Chapter Text

At last it seemed like Hyrule kingdom was finally free of attacks from evil beings. It had been months since Ganon's last attempt to claim the kingdom for his own. He had failed gravely, and Link had not only defeated him, but also weakened him gravely. It was most likely that it would take the demon king much longer than a few months to recover... and if they were lucky, he wouldn't.

Since Link had saved the kingdom once again, the king of Hyrule had not only allowed him to stay at the castle along with Princess Zelda, but had also given his blessing on their engagement. It was now nearing the end of spring time, and the happy couple's wedding would take place the very next evening - which also happened to be the summer solstice.

Although it was traditional for him not to see his bride to be the night before their wedding, Link could not help himself, and so now here he was stood outside her bed chambers awaiting an answer to his knock on her door. Though he was nervous on the inside, on the outside it was not showing.

When the door finally opened and the beautifully angelic Princess stood before him, he smiled and all the nervous feelings faded away.

"My dear Link, what are you doing here at such an hour? You know we really shouldn't be seeing each other until tomorrow at the ceremony." She greeted him, her voice soft and warm as per usual.

"Your highness, my beautiful bride to be, I just couldn't wait that long. I had to see you before. At least for a moment, and no one has to know." He informed her, taking her hand into his and bringing it to his lips and planting a sweet kiss on her porcelain like skin.

"Okay, come on in... but be quick! My father shall not like this if he were to find out." She caved in, opening the door wider for him to step through.

With a bow of his head, he accepted her invitation and entered the room that, come tomorrow night, he would be sharing with the Princess. Once he was safely on the other side, Zelda peered around the hall of the castle to ensure that no one had seen, and once she could confirm that there was nothing, she closed the door.

"What do I owe the pleasure of this visit?" She asked politely, tilting her head to one side as she admired the sight of him in his rupee green tunic.

"I uhh.... I just needed to see you one last time before we tie the knot, your highness." Link stammered.

Even the sight of the Princess in her night gown was giving him butterflies. He normally would never go against tradition, but there was something on his mind that he was just desperate to share with her. After tomorrow, he wanted a fresh start, and that meant no secrets or misunderstandings. The sooner he clarified this with her, the better.

"Oh, is something wrong my dear Link?" She questioned with fear flashing in her eyes.

"Not at all Princess, please do not be alarmed. What I have to say might change your mind on me though." He prepared her - and himself, for what he was about to say.

Gesturing for her to sit down, he waited until she had made herself comfortable before pulling up a wooden chair and sitting down on it, backwards with his arms propping him up.

"Please continue." Zelda requested.

"As you wish, Princess." He obliged. Taking a breath, he continued. "You see,  I do love you quite dearly and I'm afraid that you might become angry at me for what I am about to tell you." He began nervously, searching for the right words and tone to use.

"For what reason would I possibly be mad at you?" She inquired.

"Well your highness, while I was on my quest to save you and the rest of Hyrule from eternal doom, there were a lot of females that I encountered on my journeys. They were all very friendly... but some were a little flirty." He admitted sheepishly, his voice glazed with embarrassment.

Link sat and observed the Princess, trying to read her expression to tell how she was feeling. She closed her eyes and bowed her head with her two hands joined together in front of her face. For a moment, a fearful thought entered his mind... until finally she her hands dropped to her sides and she lifted her head while opening her eyes at the same time.

He watched intensely as she opened her mouth to speak, but just as the words were about to escape through her lips, a song of screams echoed throughout the castle. Screams to terror and cries for help were bouncing off the wall amongst the sounds of swords clashing and concrete breaking.

Unsheathing his sword, Link jumped up from where he was sat and sprinted towards the door, only stopping when he felt Zelda's hand on his shoulder.

"My dear Link, please do be careful." She pleaded.

"Don't worry Princess, no harm will come to you or anyone else." He assured her.

She nodded in agreement as he turned back towards the door and twisted the handle.

When the door swung open, the pair were taken by surprise as a shadow being from the long sealed off Twilight Realm barrelled into the room, knocking Link off of his feat, sending him flying in one direction and his sword in another.

Filled with a fierce anger, the Princess made a dive across the room for the sword. Grasping it only seconds before the intruder could, she swung at them with full force, only for them to dodge the blow.

Having only just regained focus, Link scrambled to his feet and because he was without sword or shield, he tackled their enemy, taking them down to the floor. The only weapons being his hands.

Despite the strength that he had gained across many of his quests, this time the young hero was caught off guard. As he was about to get the upper hand, another of the creatures came crashing into the room and made a move to attack.

The next thing that Link felt was a sharp pain in his side before the room began to spin in his dizzy state. Within seconds he had hit the floor with a harsh thud and as his eyes fluttered closed the last thing he saw was his Princess in the clutches of the intruders and her cries for help filling his ears until everything faded into the distance, leaving him in nothing but darkness.

Chapter Text

As he came to, Link struggled to remember the events that had led up to his black out. His eyes flew open and he bolted up into a sitting position, frantically looking around the room for any signs of what may have happened and trying to locate the Princess.

Once he realised that she was not inside the room with him, he jumped to his feet, reaching for his sword... but it wasn't there. Neither was his shield, or any other form of protection that he had been carrying with him. He had to exit the room, he knew that, but he also knew that it would be stupid of him to leave the room without some form of protection. Scanning the area for anything that could be of use to him, he took note of a barrel lid that was discarded on the floor. Combined with some leather bounds, it could make a temporary shield.

Now that he had something to use for protection, all he needed was something that would be useful for fighting. After all, he did not know what might be laid in waiting behind the door of Zelda's bed chambers. Heading over to the closet, in which he knew the Princess kept all of her treasures, he fumbled around in there until he found exactly what he was looking for - his old wooden sword that he'd once used when he was seven years old.

Before the days of fighting much greater evils, Link was just a little boy, wandering around the kingdom in between the towns and villages, doing little jobs to help people out and earn rewards. Though the greatest job that he had ever been appointed, was protecting and fighting alongside Princess Zelda. Up until then, he had used a wooden sword for tasks such as cutting grass and helping to keep goats under control. He knew that after all these years it would be unsteady and only have a little life left in it, but until he found out where the master sword had been taken, it would have to do.

With his guard up, and the shield along with the sword at the ready, he cautiously exited the room. First looking left, then right, and seeing no potential threat lurking in the passage way, he ventured forward towards the stairs. Instantly, he noticed that there was a lack of guards and royals roaming. A feeling of uncertainty washing over him, he quickened his pace as he made his way to the throne room. He would feel much more reassured once he spoke with the king of Hyrule.

His hope soon took a downward spiral as soon as he entered the familiar room though. The disappointment was colossal and the feeling that their peace  had been disturbed was stronger than ever. Sat before him upon the throne was not the King, not even the Princess. Sat before him upon the throne was absolutely nobody. It appeared that the castle was empty and no one, except for himself was present.

That is where he was wrong.

Stood for a moment in a silence that was due to his utter disbelief of everything that had happened, he spun around defensively when he heard the shuffle of a movement on the ground and instantly, his mouth fell open wide. Closing in on him, were enemies that he had thought that he would never encounter again. Enemies that he had thought he'd taken care of. The Shadow Beasts. Four of them to be exact.

All memories of when Zant took over as  the Twilight Realm came flooding back to him and just the feel of the power that was radiating off of them was enough to tell him that his wooden sword did not stand a chance at protecting him. Doing the only sensible thing he could think of at that specific moment in time, he turned on his heel and made a run for the door - well what was left of it anyway. He managed to reach the steps to the castle but made the crucial mistake of looking behind to check if the Beasts were on his tail. The second he looked back in front of him, it was too late to stop running, and before he knew it he was flying through the air and then hit the ground with harsh thud, smacking his head on a piece of rubble.

Laid on the ground, all he could do in his dizzy state was watch as the Shadow Beasts closed in on him.... then everything went black.

*******
"Link...." A soft female voice whispered into his darkness.

"Link, wake up. It is time to begin your next quest." The voice spoke again.

'Princess?' He thought groggily to himself as his eyes fluttered open. Though he could not see clearly just yet, he made out two figures hovering above him.

"Not anymore. Thanks to you, I am now a Queen." The female voice responded.

Seconds later, his vision cleared up and those hovering above him came into focus. The male figure was the King of Hyrule, someone that Link was relieved to see after what had happened, and the female figure, who had been coaxing him into awake, was none other than the Queen of the Twilight Realm herself - Midna. He was surprised to see her at all since the end of the fight with Ganon and helping her take back her kingdom, he hadn't heard a peep from her.... Until now.

Pushing himself up into a sitting position, he stared blankly at the two. The King's presence whenever there was a threat to the kingdom was always expected, but to have Midna there too meant that something must be seriously wrong and not just within the kingdom of light either, but also the Twilight Realm. Instantly Link knew that the sleep he had just been in, was going to be his last for a long time.

"Midna?... Uh, I mean... your majesty?" He questioned, meaning to ask why she was present.

Luckily for him, he did not have to put the question that was in his head, into words. Having travelled with Midna for so long when Zant had last taken control of the Twilight Realm, she had managed to somehow pick up on a lot of his inner thoughts, especially when he didn't verbalise.

"Zant..." Midna began, and took a moment to breath, but before she could continue, the King of Hyrule spoke.

"He has kidnapped my daugther!" The King's deep voice spoke the words in a tone of anger, one that had never been used in front of the knights before.

Link looked as though he suddenly woke up in shock and stared at them confused. It hadn't been all that long ago that he had been stood in Zelda's sleeping chambers, and now he was being told that the former King of the Twilight Realm had kidnapped her?

"Link... after I left you and princess Zelda and returned to my realm  things have gotten far too quiet. My people knew about what we did to stop Zant and take back my throne, he told them…" Midna began to explain.

Link gasped. After everything that they had been through, he had assumed that everything was perfectly in order. Only now was he realising that something had been seriously wrong for a long time, but they just hadn't noticed before.

"He ran away before we could catch and imprison him for what he did to me! And my people. But then not so long ago, I was sitting in my throne talking with my servant about some Twilight business when he showed up, killed my guards and servant and before I could do something about it, I saw Zelda asleep in some kind of crystal. I couldnt belive it… but before I could use my ancestors magic on him as we did on him before, he banished me from my own realm! And I found myself back at the mirror chamber where we said farewell to one another.. So we have to get back to my kingdom and save my people from that creep .. and the Princess too." Midna finished explaining, a pained expression on her face.

As soon as the words fell upon his ears, a deep fury awoke within him and a fire that burned right to his core had been ignited. Jumping up from the bed, he knew that there was a long road ahead of him... A fight that would put an end to Zant's cruelty... or if all efforts failed, an end to himself and all of Hyrule and the Twilight Realm.

Chapter Text

Link began to head for the door before realising that he had no idea where he even was. Though he was not about to let that stop him, when he was lost, he always found a way. Even when it seemed impossible.

Before he could open the door though, the King stepped in front of it, shaking his head. Link tilted his head to the side and arched an eyebrow in confusion, he was about to ask why he was being stopped from leaving when the King's eyes narrowed and he pointed over to the other side of the room, where Midna was sat with her usual cocky expression written on her face.

"I'll allow Midna to do the honours of explaining what you will have to know before continuing on the journey." The King stated and stepped aside.

Link turned around to face the giddy little imp. He took a few steps forward and then gave her a nod to continue.

"Come on Link, we have to get moving." She urged him, standing up and going over to open the door.

"Woah, hold up! Where are we going? And exactly what are we going to do?" He quizzed as he caught up with Midna, who was already outside the door.

"Before we begin our quest, we will need to visit a few familiar places. Our first stop however, is right here in Castle Town." She informed him.

"Easy peasy. No problem there." He responded, with a dose of boyish confidence in his voice.

"Whilst here, you need to speak with Telma, you still know her right?" Midna questioned, a little concerned that he may not remember.

Unlike the rest of the Hylians though, he seemed to remember perfectly fine as he gave her a little nod to say that he did, indeed, remember Telma.

"Be safe on your journey brave Link and young Midna. I will be here in the castle if you should happen to need me." The King bid farewell.

Once they were outside and further into Castle Town, nearing the fountain, Link stopped. He couldn't help but think about the long journey ahead of them, but asides from that, his brain had only just registered with him what Midna had asked. It was an odd question since there should be no reason why he wouldn't remember Telma, the bar owner with several cats as friends.

Despite the strange question, he knew that he would most likely find out why once they reached her Tavern. Unlike near the castle itself, Castle Town was crowded with rich Hylians. Usually they would be going around, minding their own business and doing what had to be done, however Link instantly noticed how they were all running around as though they were frantically searching for something - most likely a safe place to hide - and some were even wielding weapons while others were making them out of any random object that they could find. Extremely odd for the calm population of this town, he thought to himself quietly as he stopped and waited for Midna to catch up. He hadn't noticed how fast he had been walking until he had looked back only to notice that there was quite a distance between himself and her.

"What are you standing there for?!" She asked disapprovingly as she finally caught him up. "We have to meet up with Telma, remember?" She insisted.

Link was about to open his mouth to speak and tell her that he had been waiting for her when he quickly remembered that she could easily teleport herself to him using magic. So rather than giving her that answer, he continued walking down the south side of Castle Town, past the fountain and down the little walk way and the steps that led to Telma's Tavern.

Stood near the doors, with Midna by his side, he waited for her approval before opening the doors. Once she had given him that little encouraging nod, that he was used to by now, he fiddled with the doorknob and twisted it to the left until the door opened.

"Link! What a fantastic surprise! And you've brought your little friend." Telma cheered.

She seemed a little too cheery for someone who's town had just been under attack. But because he knew that it was just the way she was, Link let the thought slide and put all his focus on finding out why they were even there. He turned to Midna and waited for her to speak first before he even said a word.

"Link, go and ask Telma about the attack that happened." Midna instructed him.

Without a word he nodded in understanding and walked up to Telma, resting his arms on the bar and leaning closer, he spoke.

"Telma. Do you know who was behind the attack on Hyrule?" He asked, his jewel blue eyes locked on the kind bar owner.

The burley woman stared blankly at him for a moment before a look of confusion spread across her face. At first he thought that she was perhaps just searching her mind for all the important information that he needed to know, just as she had once before. But then a frown appeared on her face and a look of worry.

"Attack? Where .. who?" She stammered, completely clueless.

Link looked back at Midna with a questioning look, and he instantly saw the disappointed look in her eyes. It was then that she walked to him, looking as though she had something important to say.

"She doesnt remember .. No one here will." The usually giddy imp informed him.

Link looked back and for between the two, frightened for what this meant for the kingdom and all its people.

"Look... Zant used some kind of magic on them after kidnapping Zelda. So all the Hylians wont remember a thing of the attack." Midna further explained.

Hearing about everything that he had completely and utterly failed to prevent, all Link could do was silently kick himself for not picking up on anything that was wrong sooner than he had. The past few days had been spent so caught up in Princess Zelda's aura, and planning their wedding that he had completely let everything else slip his mind or go right over his head.

"Sorry Link, honey. I don't know what you're talking about. I wish I could help you. Maybe you should ask Ilia." Telma suggested sadly, disappointed that she was unable to help them anymore.

"Ilia! Thats it!" Midna exclaimed with a snap of her fingers as a smile spread across her face.

"We must find Ilia! She isn't from this part of Hyrule. She lives just on the borders of the kingdom, in Ordon village. Your true home." She added, almost jumping in the air with excitement from being able to figure out exactly what they needed to do.

"Thank you Telma." Link smiled at the woman and turned back to Midna. "First we should check in with Kakariko village and maybe stock up on weapons and supplies, I do not think that a wooden sword from when I was seven years old is going to do much." He added to his companion.

"Where is your master sword?" Midna asked, almost afraid to hear the answer.

Link looked down at his old and scuffed brown boots and walked over to the door, pulling it open and waiting for Midna to go through before he did. Once they were outside the Tavern once again, he stopped and turned to her.

"I lost it when I fainted." He admitted to her sheepishly.

Her reaction was just as he expected, she gasped in shock and horror before going right up to him, with her body just inches away from his and then she poked him in the chest.

"You lost the legendary blade?! You know we need that sword! It is the only one that even remotely stands a chance against Zant!" She began to freak out on him.

Link nodded with a little sigh. He knew that she was right, and he was deeply ashamed of himself right now. If he had just kept his guard up then none of this would be happening.

"Midna, I didn't lose it. When they attacked and knocked me out, they must have taken it because when I woke up in Zelda's bed chambers it was gone." He stated in his defense.

The imp did not reply though, she appeared to be deep in thought.

"Hmm... didn't you deliver the Ordon sword back to the village?" She questioned, her mind going over the events that happened just before they had parted ways.

"Colin's father keeps it safe." Link stated.

"You should use that sword until we can find the blade that you lost." Midna suggested.

"Right! That would be best." He agreed.

"Then let's get going." Midna said, walking on ahead.

Without a second thought, Link followed and soon caught up with her. They were in for a long journey and most likely a difficult fight against Zant, but no matter what he would not fail his fellow Hylians, his beloved Princess or Midna again.

Chapter Text

Having been walking for hours now, Link paused for a moment to catch his breath. It was getting late - judging by how dark it was, it must have been around 9pm in the evening, and aside from the darkness it was also growing colder by the minute.

It was not safe to travel in the dark between the towns and villages because with the Mirror of Twilight being a gateway, it meant that the goblins were back roaming Hyrule Field and Eldin Province. Their best move was to set up camp for the night and get moving as soon as dawn came.

"I think it's time to camp out for the night. It's not safe to continue through the night. Let's get a fire started and camp here for the night since we know that no goblins will come here." Link informed Midna, who had stopped right behind him.

"You sure about this Link?" Midna looked suspiciously around, not trusting their surroundings.

"Yes I’m sure" He confirmed.

A little reluctant at first, Midna gave in after thinking about it for a short moment.

"Well lets make a camp fire and a sleeping place, Link could you gather some leaves and sticks?" She asked, beginning to clear away some of the stones that were in the way of their base.

Link nodded and began looking around for the needed materials. When he returned, he saw that Midna had already made a decent enough sleeping place for them and had even gathered some food to cook over the campfire.

"That should be enough, though I couldn't find any flint to get a fire going with" He told his trusty companion.

He had searched as much as possible despite the darkness and unfortunately most of the leaves were soggy and ripped from the rain or just too crusty.

"Well that shouldn't be a problem. I have an idea" Midna informed him that with only a little movement of her index finger, made the leaves and sticks that Link had gathered in flames.

He could only stare at her and the now crackling fire in amazement and wonder how the Hell he had ever gotten by before without her. Sure, he had worked with other companions like Navi, but none of them could compare to Midna. She was the most helpful and interesting person to travel with and he was grateful to have her on this journey with him once again.

"Don't look so surprised." She smiled as they sat down and began to cook their food.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Midna could not help but to ask Link the one question that had been nagging her mind for the whole day since she had arrived in Castle Town.

"Link... Is it true that your engaged... to Zelda?" She asked.

Link got nervous. He could see Midna's devilish yet flirty smile. It was the look that, during their previous adventure together, he had become accustomed to. He was aware of what it had meant of course, he would have to be pretty stupid not to know, but it had made him nervous because he did not want to do anything on this journey to jeopardise what he shared with the Princess.. or his friendship with the giddy little imp. He was Zelda's valiant Knight after all, the one who had protected her wherever she went and her soon to be husband. Midna just also happened to be his best friend in the whole world. She was the only one aside from the Princess, who did not judge him or look down on him as a little loser boy with limited abilities.

"Yes, we are. Who... Who told you?" He struggled to question. He was frightened that she might not like the changes that had occurred since their last encounter.

"Isn't that obvious?... The king told me when I arrived in Castle Town." She answered truthfully.

Of course this news had taken her by surprise and she felt a little disappointed, but she was also happy. She was happy because her best friend had finally gotten what he deserved, and because the Princess had finally seen his worth.

Link stared at the flames, he was lost in thought, but was not ignoring Midna. Deep down he had always known that she felt something for him, but he never dared to bring it up in any of their conversations. By now he was used to loads of females fawning, fighting and swooning over him. He had encountered many of them over his hundreds of adventures... but Midna was someone that he did not want to get hurt. He loved the Princess, but he wanted to make sure that the giddy little imp found her happiness too.

Settling down ready to get some sleep before the long day that was ahead of them, they talked a little more. Catching up with each other and working out what would come next, after this fight was over - but never quite coming to a conclusion on that subject before getting sleepy.

As his eyes were growing heavy, and his mind drifting away into the abyss, he heard Midna speak to him in her more softer tone that she used when tired.

"Link... I missed our adventure together. I'm glad your with me in this." She admitted with a little yawn before she drifted off to the land of nod.

Although she was already fast asleep, and Link knew this, he decided to speak back anyway.

"I missed you too." He whispered into the cold night air before he fell into a deep slumber.

*******
Awaking to the sound of their campfire crackling and fizzing out, as well as the raw daylight that cut into his eyes like razor blades, Link sat up and looked over at his companion, who was still sleeping peacefully.

Link got on his feet, and looked around to see if any goblins were nearby. Fortunately, there was not one to be found.

"Huh? Daylight already?… I just had this good dream." Midna yawned softly to break out of her dreamy state, and rose to her feet.

"Well  we should get going right Link?" She questioned, now wide awake.

Link nodded and so they began walking in the direction that they knew would lead them to Ordon village.

"Thats the woods right?"  Midna stared at Links map and pointed to a certain location on it.

Every adventure he had been on, he always carried a map just incase they got lost - though by now he knew Hyrule like the back of his hand.

"Yep." He confirmed, and so they headed in that direction.

The next few miles were spent with little to no talking. Link couldn't deny that things had been a little awkward this morning, since their conversation last night. He wasn't angry with her for how she felt, but he just didn't know what to say and was waiting for her to start a conversation first.

She didn't speak either, not because she was hurt over this news of Link's engagement, because she wasn't. She was quite happy for him. It was more about her own life though. Back in the Twilight Realm, she was lonely and had no close friends. Of course, she had her kingdom, but she couldn't help but feel the need for something more than that.

"Looks familiar doesnt it Link?" Midna spoke for the first time since waking up.

He smiled as the memories he has of his home village came flooding back through his mind. Each one was different and most of them were of the friendly villagers that he had spent most of his early days helping out.

"Yeah, I havent been here since I delivered the sword back to Colin's father." He responded, still smiling in awe at being back in a place that he loved. Of course he loved Hyrule Castle, but there was just something about this place that brought a feeling of nostalgia.

Soon they came to the bridge that was the border between Faron woods and the Ordon region and crossed it.

When they made it to the spirit fountain, Link stopped walking as he began to reflect upon a happy memory he had shared there with Ilia, back when she had first introduced him to Epona and had allowed him to take the beautiful horse on his travels on the condition that he took care of her.

"Huh?What is it Link?" Midna asked curiously.

"What? Oh, Nothing... I just had..." He was about to tell her, but trailed off without finishing his sentence.

"A flashback?" Midna questioned, with her hand close to his. The support team they had built was endless between the two.

"Yes. A flashback. Nothing more." He concluded and continued walking with Midna following not far behind.

Arriving at Link's house that he used to live in before he moved to Castle Town, things looked exactly how he had been remembering them. His house remained untouched by the rest of the villagers despite his permission for them to use it if they needed. It made him wonder what the rest of the village looked like these days.

He hoped that nothing had changed for the worse. This village meant something to him that he could not quite explain to anyone else as he wouldn't be able to word it in a way that they would understand.

It was a good thing that with Midna, he didn't have to. She had a way of seeing into his soul and always commented on anything that she believed was interesting. It was one of the reasons why he favoured her over every other companion he had travelled with, except for the Princess of course.

Chapter Text

Walking through the little alley way into the main part of the village, a smile spread upon Link's face as he took in the sight of peace and serenity that had not been broken as it had back in Hyrule.

Looking around he could see Colin, along with the other children, running around freely. Further in the distance, up towards the goat farm, he could see the once pregnant lady now humming a lullaby to her baby as she rocked them back and forth whilst sat by the edge of the river. On the other side, he could see the mayor looking over the village with a watchful eye. He thought that the best place to start would be to ask the little boy where his father was at.

Turning to Midna, with a smile plastered on his face, he wanted to make sure that she was on board with his plan.

"This place sure does look the same." She commented, looking around in awe of the peacefulness of the villagers.

"So Link, you have to retrive the sword from Colin's father... But where is he?" She questioned.

Link looked around but could only see Colin and the other children running around. The only adults in sight were the mayor and once pregnant lady. He was sure that the boy's father had to be around there somewhere.

"Ask Colin or his mother. She should know where he is." Midna said suggestively.

He nodded and headed over to where the children were all happily playing. As soon as his shadow blocked out their sun light, each of them turned to look at him. It brought back many memories of the young souls looking up to him, all hoping to follow in his footsteps and become a brave Knight. All except Ilia of course, who instead, lived inside her own world.

"Master Link!" Colin greeted with a joyful expression.

"Good morning young Colin. May I ask where your father is at?" Link questioned in a soft and friendly tone.

For a second the boy's expression remained the same, but then a frown appeared on his face as though he was trying to think of something.

"I am awfully sorry Master Link, but I cannot help you. Mama will not tell me where Papa went. You see, a few days ago he left on one of his journeys but when I asked him where he was going to, he would not say either." Colin explained as simply as he possibly could.

"Oh. I see... Well, is your Mama at home now?" Link asked, hoping that if Colin had no idea, his mother would give him the information needed.

"Yes. She is home, taking care of my baby sister." Colin informed him.

"Thank you. I'll leave you kids to play now." Link concluded and headed back the way he had came and towards the family's house.

Although Ordon Village looked the same, there were quite a few changes within the people there. Colin, and all the other children had grown taller and were shaping up to be quite the young warriors and soon there would be a new generation of children. With Colin's new sibling and all of the other younger children of the Village, things would change rather quickly.

"Hope she knows exactly where he is... Or if we are lucky maybe she has the sword herself. There she is, just coming out of her house now. Let's go and ask her." Midna instructed, heading towards the humble looking woman.

Link followed along behind and quickly caught up to the giddy little imp, following her stare to Colin's mother.

"Master Link and... your friend... to what do I owe the pleasure?" She asked in a voice sweeter and more mellow than what he remembered.

"Well you see... after peace was restored to the kingdom, I came back here and gave Colin's father the sword that he had given me to use. I was wondering if I am able to speak to him? Or perhaps you could tell us where he is located?" Link rambled, struggling to find the right words to use.

"Oh... Master Link, my husband has gone away in search of Ilia. Last we heard, she was travelling home from Kakariko Village, but she never arrived. So Colin's father has gone to find her." The placid lady explained.

"I see... so he took the sword?" Link questioned.

"No. He left the sword with me. I shall grant you access to it on one condition." She began.

"What's the condition?" He asked.

"Please... fetch me some baby supplies from Kakariko." She requested.

"That I can do." He stated confidently.

"Thank you, Master Link. This helps me a lot." She smiled.

He nodded and turned to his trusty little companion, waiting to hear her response.

"So... You have to get her some baby supplies before she will let you borrow the sword. Well let's hurry to Kakariko. Come on Link, we haven't any time to lose." Midna urged him.

Once again, he nodded in understanding and hurried down the path that they had previously taken to enter the main village, with her following closely behind him. It didn't take long to get back to the field, and once they did, he quickened his pace. He wanted to get this over with as soon as possible since buying baby items in Kakariko after every Hylian had lost their memories, it would raise some suspicions and spark some rumours that he didn't want.

"It shouldn't be us that has to travel miles just to get some diapers and such, that we ourselves have no use for." Midna grumbled causing Link to chuckle.

Of course he knew that she would have something to say about it, but if she had only known exactly how long he had been doing these seemingly pointless tasks for his fellow villagers then she would understand. Aside from the rewards and gratitude that gave him the familiar warm and fuzzy feeling, he also enjoyed just being able to make people's lives easier - granted that it sometimes made his quests more difficult, but it was always a great way to strengthen his skills and most importantly... his tolerance.

"Hey link!" Midna called out, with that giddy imp smile plastered on her face again. "Have you and Zelda thought about... Having children?" She asked curiously.

The moment the words left her lips, Link's eyes widened and his cheeks flushed a light shade of pink. Of course he had thought about it. How could he not when there were children almost everywhere he went? It was impossible not to. Although in between his many quests and battles with evil, he had never gotten the chance to properly think about an heir to inherit the job of serving and protecting the land.

"I... uh..." He began to answer, not quite knowing what he should say.

"Tehehe... You should! I bet a beast like you would make a good father." Midna complimented.

Instead of speaking, since he had no clue what he should say to that, he gave his trusty companion a smile and returned his focus to the path ahead of them as they neared the middle of the field where all the goblins would usually try to attack people passing through.

Rather than any of them waiting to attack, what they encountered was far worse. Laid in the middle of the path was a lifeless body, though he was not close enough to see exactly who it was, he could tell by the smallness of it, that it belonged to one of the young ones.

"Should I... Should I go find out who that is?" Link turned to ask Midna, stunned.

"I see that body too Link! We should hurry and see if she or he is alive." Midna responded.

Link nodded and ran the short distance to where the person was sprawled on the path. It was then that he finally saw who it was - his close friend Ilia. With a gasp and wide eyes, he dropped to the floor and pulled her in closer, placing his head to her chest to see if he could find a heartbeat.

Though he found one, it was faint. Lifting his head and looking into her eyes, he could see that she was struggling to stay conscious.

"Master Link..." Her fading voice whispered.

"Ilia! What happened?" He asked, feeling as though his heart was being strangled.

"G... Goblins." She informed him, fighting for air.

"Well... it's okay, I'm here now and you're gonna be fine! I'm gonna find a way to help you!" He stated, trying to convince both her and himself that everything would be okay.

Deep inside, he knew that it wouldn't.

"No... there's no time left. Link, you must go on with your quest and save Hyrule once again.... forget about me." She pleaded with him, desperation and fear both present in her eyes.

"But I can't just let you die!" He protested.

Just the thought of being unable to save someone, especially one who meant as much to him as Ilia did, caused him great amounts of pain. He didn't want to fail her, or the Princess, or anyone else. If he did then he knew that he would not be able to live with himself.

"Master Link... You have to..." She wheezed, ending the sentence with a coughing fit.

"Ilia, no!" He protested despite losing any and all strength he'd had a moment ago.

"Just... promise me one thing..." She requested.

Knowing that she was fading fast and he hadn't the time to get her anywhere comfortable, or even try to save her, knowing that he had found her too late, he bit down on his trembling lip and simply nodded.

"I promise anything... the lengths that I will go to have no ends when I am fulfilling a promise." He said, his voice caving and becoming more riddled with sadness and fear.

"Promise me... you will take care of Epona... take her on your travels..." The young girl struggled to say.

"I promise you, I will take care of Epona for you." Link told her.

His teeth were gritted as he tried to suppress the surge of pain that was wanting to escape him and the tears that he had fought hard to keep at bay, began to fall.

"Ilia..." He whispered with his trembling, unsteady voice...

But he knew that it was no use. The girl was already gone. Her body was left in his arms with no soul to inhabit it.

Link felt empty. He wanted to scream and yell, to lose his cool and break something... Even bargain with the almighty Gods above, but he knew that none of that would bring her back.

The only thing he could do now was fulfil the promise that he had made to her. Holding the limp body tightly in his arms, he was determined that the next thing he would do, was take the girl back to be buried in her home village and then find Epona. Only once that was done, would he travel to Kakariko to get those baby items and then continue with his quest. Not one second before he was on Epona's back.

Chapter Text

Remaining on the ground, cradling the girl in his arms, the hero of Hyrule could not bring himself to move from the spot. The unbearable grief had already come flooding through him and was causing a hysterical reaction. He didn't think that his eyes would ever dry up.

He could hear Midna calling his name, trying to bring him back down to earth but he was just too broken up to respond. After a moment he managed to gather enough strength to rise from the floor, bringing Ilia with him. He began walking back in the direction of Ordon Village, unable to to focus on anything other than taking the girl back where she belonged.

Once they reached the village, all of the familiar faces who were busy at work, stopped what they were doing and turned their attention to the imp and the hero with the girl in his arms. Each of them with concerned and horrified expressions, came running towards him, talking over one another, desperately trying to find out what had happened.

"Master Link... what happened?" One yelled over the rest.

"Oh my... is that young Ilia?" Another asked, trying to see through the few that were up front.

"Everyone, please be calm! It is with great amounts of regret that I inform you of the passing of one of our own. Ilia, the girl who cared for both humans and horses, was attacked by Goblins on her way home from Kakariko Village. Unfortunately, I did not reach her in time." Link announced, sounding stronger than he actually felt.

The gasps, anguished cries and stunned silence of the crowd gave him time to calm himself down just as Bo, Ilia's father, came running to him looking more panicked than ever before.

"Dear God! My darling daughter.... Master Link, what happened to her?" Bo inquired.

"Goblin attack, while she was on her way back from Kakariko. I'm so sorry, I didn't find her in time." He apologised, swallowing the lump that had formed in his throat.

"No! No! Noooo! Not my precious girl..." Bo cried out.

As he heard the distraught cries of the Mayor, a crushing weight that was guilt fell upon his shoulders. He couldn't bare the thought that he had failed one of his own people, and that he had not managed to save the girl.

"We should bury her in the Ordon Gardens. It was the place she loved most... I am so sorry Bo, I wish I had gotten to her sooner." Link made a weak attempt to comfort the Mayor.

"You're right.... it's what she would have wanted." Bo sighed, pulling himself together for the sake of his people.

"Thank you, Master Link, for bringing her back here to us." The Mayor said gratefully.

With that being said, Link nodded and began leading the way to the beautiful garden in which he and Ilia had spent many days together before the events that happened with the Twilight Realm.

Inside the garden was peaceful and tranquil, the perfect place for a girl like Ilia. As the goat farmer began to dig, he held onto her, getting ready for the moment when he would have to let her go. It was a moment that he would rather not have to live through.

Once the hole in the ground was finished, Bo gave Link a sad and desperate nod. With permission from the Mayor, he lowered the fallen girl's body gently into the ground, making sure that her arms nor legs were at a funny angle. As he rose to his feet, he remembered that the last time they had spoken, Ilia had gave him a pink rose that had not yet blossomed. He had held onto it throughout all his adventures and after months, it had finally began to open up. Without a second thought, he took it out of his pocket and dropped it in quickly before the farmer began to throw the dirt over.
He had already decided that the pretty little flower belonged with the girl that had spent her life caring for all living creatures.

It seemed like only a few minutes before her grave was finally complete and after paying their respects, everyone began to head back to their little homes and Bo went to take care of his distraught wife.

However, Link could not bring himself to leave the site just yet. He needed a moment of peace. Away from all the monsters and the duties he was supposed to deal with. A moment just for peace.

"Link..." He heard the imp, who wasn't giddy for once, call, but he wasn't in the mood to answer. He had already cried too much.

Seeing how much hurt her best friend was suffering through, Midna walked closer and placed her arms around him comforting him like he was a crying baby. Moments like these were never easy. She saw his pain, but also needed to figure out how to convince him to move forward with their quest without turning his grief into anger.

"We have to continue our quest ... If we dont everyone is gona suffer and more of your friends are gonna die..." She urged.

But he didn't stop crying. He couldnt accept it. He couldn't accept that she was gone. Nor that if he didn't do something, more people would follow. It was never easy to have so much responsibility at such a young age, and by now he ought to be used to it. With a deep sigh and a heavy heart, he got up from where he was sat and turned to Midna.

"I'm sick of this. Sick of watching my friends die and suffer. It's time that we put a stop to all of the attacks once and for all. Are you with me?" He stated determinedly.

If she agreed with him, then he would be relieved to have someone join him on his travels. But if not then he would go it alone.

"Link, of course I'm with you on this. But we don't really have the time to hunt down goblins, we are on a mission. Both the kingdom of Hyrule and Twilight are in danger..." She reminded him gently.

As harsh as it sounded, it was the truth.

He forgotten about Zelda. An absolutely awful thing to do, forgetting about his loved one, but during a time like this, it just couldn't be helped. He had been through a lot already and there was far too much on his mind, but he knew that Midna was right. Both kingdoms needed him. They were counting on him to save them all. Zelda's life was counting on him.

"Link,.we have to get going. What would Ilia tell you if she were alive now?" She questioned a bit more harsher than her last attempt to snap him out of his grief bubble.

"Go and get Epona." He answered dryly in a monotone voice.

"Exactly. So let's go find her!" Midna encouraged.

Without another word to her, Link's expression changed from broken and soft to tough and angry, then he began walking straight ahead. With each step, he walked faster and faster, not bothering to look behind or to the side and not stopping to allow time for his trusty companion to catch up.

He was hurt.

He was angry.

But he was also determined.

All he had to do was find Epona and continue with what they needed to do. And he would not stop until every last threat was vanquished. Every Goblin, every King of evil... they would all pay for what they had done to these kingdoms.

Heading for the farmer's barn, in which he had once rounded up goats, he stopped just outside when he saw the beautiful brown coated horse. For a moment, his pain vanished and his eyes softened when she sneezed, shook her head and turned her attention to him. With a small smile, he held out his hand to her and slowly placed it on her nose, giving her a friendly greeting.

It appeared that the farmer had already gotten her ready for their journey as her saddle was upon her back and the reigns resting on her mane.

"Well... It looks like Epona is happy to see you Link." The giddy imp smiled.

He gave a nod in agreement before turning his attention back to the horse.

"Get on her and let's go get those baby supplies from Kakariko." Midna instructed.

Placing his foot in one of the stirrups and hoisting his other leg over onto the other side of her, he picked up the reigns and guided her to turn around so that she was facing the way out of the goat farm. Giving a little kick to her side and using the reigns, he made her move forward at a steady pace - careful not to crash into anyone who may be around the corner.

"Hiiyyaa." He called out as they reached the beginning of the Faron Fairy Fountain for the third time that day.

Now that there was no children running around, he could get Epona to go just a little bit faster. They would be reaching Kakariko in absolutely no time at all, he was sure of that.

Chapter Text

After a journey that had been cut short thanks to Epona, the three of them finally made it to Kakariko Village. As they entered, Link immediately noticed that everyone there was acting like their normal selves. Unlike when Zant last tried to take over the kingdom of light, all the residents were strangely calm and it was like nothing had even happened. Clearly they'd had their memories wiped too.

Everything was just as he remembered it from when he was last there.

"So where do we buy those supplies from?" Midna asked, eyeing the small village.

Link looked around for a second and spotted Malo's mart. He was relieved to see that the place was still open. Without it, he wouldn't know where to get anything.

"Right there." He answered, pointing out the place he had just spotted.

Without another word they walked over and was about to enter when Midna questioned him."You do have rupees to pay for this Link?"

Link checked his pockets and gave a relieved sigh when he found the small gem stones that they used for currency, tucked away safely.

"Yep. Pocket full." He informed her and dismounted Epona to climb the small steps that led up to the shop.

Despite the outside of the shop being the same, the inside was quite different and had been changed around. Heading up to the counter, he was about to ask Malo for the baby supplies when he saw Colin's father already speaking with him. He had been so caught up in his feelings when he had brought Ilia back to Ordon to be buried that he hadn't noticed the absence of the man. Of course, Colin himself had said that his father wasn't there, but Link had let that slip his mind.

"Oh... Hi Link. I was just about to leave for Ordon. I don't know if you know this, but Ilia..." Rusl began but was quickly interrupted.

"Is gone..." Link finished with a grim look on his face.

"What? But I have just been looking for her... how did it happen?" Rusl questioned, a look of disbelief on his face.

"Well... you see..." Link began to scramble for the right words.

Seeing her best friend struggle Midna decided to step in and take over since she could clearly see that he was having trouble getting it out. Deep down, she could tell that he was still sad and grieving. He clearly did not have the heart to say the words.

"Well... She was attacked by some goblins when she was on her way home. Myself and Link found her lifeless body in the center field of Hyrule. We took her back to Ordon to..." Midna began to explain, slowing down to catch her breath. Sometimes she talked faster than her mind could keep up.

"Bury her." Link finished with his mouth in a straight, firm line.

"Oh... I'm so sorry Link, I didn't know. I was just about to give up the search... I had been searching for her a long time before I came here... But why are you here link?" Rusl questioned innocently.

I uh..." Link blushed, feeling the heat rise to his cheeks.

"To buy some... baby supplies." Midna finished with a giddy look on her face for the first time since all that had happened.

"Don't tell me...you and her..." Rusl began suspiciously looking between the two of them with a confused look.

"Wait, no!" Midna excalime with a smile, "It's just some supplies for your wife." She informed him confidently.

"Oh yeah, I forgot about that." He said sheepishly. "But why gather those things for my wife?" He questioned.

"Because Link..." Midna began but stopped when she looked at her best friend and saw the frightened look in his face. "Has need for the Ordon sword that he delivered back to you after peace was restored." She covered up.

She and Link both knew that Rusl would be shocked if he found out about Zant's attack.

"Ah, I see. May I ask what you need it for?" He asked curiously.

"I kinda promised that I would cut the grass for the people of Castle Town." Link lied guiltily.

"Oh-huh-hoh. In that case, you may use the sword for as long as you need. But whatever happened to the Master Sword that you gained on your last adventure?" Rusl questioned.

"I lost that in the castle somewhere and have yet to find it." He fibbed.

Rusl gave a little chuckle at the explanation and for a moment Link grew nervous that the man might have been able to see through his lies. He had rarely ever told a lie and so he wasn't a very confident liar.

"Losing things, eh Link. We've all been there. Don't worry it will turn up eventually. Either way, here..." Rusl began and handed him a tonne load of baby supplies.

"Take these to my missus and go get that sword. You'll need it with all these goblins roaming around." He finished.

Having gotten what they had came to Kakariko for, Link bid farewell to Rusl and he, alongside Midna, headed back outside to Epona. Placing the supplies in a safe space on the horse's back he then mounted her once more before heading back the way they had came, hurrying to get to Ordon.

Chapter Text

Arriving back in Ordon Village, Link located whom he needed to speak to, dismounted Epona near the house with the bee hive, and headed over to the fair woman.

"Miss, I have the supplies for you." Link greeted her informatively.

"Fantastic! I knew you would do it, Master Link. Please follow me back to my house and I shall give you the sword." She stated cheerfully.

As she began to walk back to the small house, Link followed her with the baby supplies in his arms. Reaching the house, she opened the door and allowed him to go through first before herself.

"Please, if you could place those supplies on the table there, that would be perfect." She requested.

He didn't hesitate to do what he had been asked, and once the items were safely on the table he turned his attention back to the woman, throwing a brief glance at Midna to help him out with asking for the sword.

"Ask!" Midna whispered to him with a nudge.

"The sword?" Link requested.

"Oh yeah, it's here" She stated with a click of her fingers, walking over to one of the counter tops to pick up the sword before handing it to him.

"Please take care of yourself out there Link, I dont want to lose you the way we lost Ilia..." She sighed solemnly.

"Don't worry, I'll be fine. I have picked up a lot of tricks on my travels." He assured her.

With that being said, they bid farewell to the gentle woman and headed on their way. Mounting Epona once again, Link paused for a moment as he had no idea where to go next. So far everything had been simple and straightforward, but now that he had gotten himself a sword, found Epona and laid Ilia to rest, he was unsure of what they should tackle next.

"Link, we should ride through Hyrule and if we see any Goblins, you take them out." Midna told him.

He nodded in understanding, gripping Epona's reigns ready to lead them out of Ordon Village.

"Problem is... the mirror of Twilight was blocked by some dark magic that only the master sword can break, so we can't enter right now." Midna went silent for a moment but then her face lit up as she thought of an idea.

"Link! You need to find the legendary blade.. without it we can't remove the shadow that blocks the mirror. We need to get back to the Castle as soon as possible." She informed him.

Once again, Link nodded in understanding. Gripping the reigns tightly, his expression became focused before he tugged on them.

"Hiyyaaa." He called out as Epona began to move back in the direction they had came, trotting at first but then breaking into a gallop.

They had a long journey ahead of them, and it was vital that they got to the castle as soon as possible. Luckily, the day had just begun and sun was still rising so they had all day to keep going. To get back where it all started, they would have to pass Kakariko and go across the Hyrule bridge that had been rebuilt from scratch after Zant and Ganon's last attack.

"At this speed we should be arriving in Castle town around afternoon." Midna informed him.

But when they reached the end of Faron Woods and exited, Epona stopped suddenly as though she was frightened of something.

"What? We cant stop now Link!" Midna scolded but when she looked around, she could see six goblins right in front of them blocking the road as they paced around with their clubs in their hands.

Link moved quickly, making Epona move forward and go barrelling into them, at the same time he unsheathed his sword and swung it killing two of them while Epona trampled the rest enabling them to keep moving forward. Once they had long passed the goblins they decided to stop briefly for a small break to catch their breath.

It was not long before their journey continued though. With the life of a Knight, this was the normal routine for Link. There had never been much time to stop in between the many quests that he had been sent on. It was rare for him to have a moment to enjoy the beauty of his surroundings or to stop in a village and get to know people... probably one of the many reasons why he had very few friends besides Midna.

"We must keep moving Link, if we are going to reach Castle town today." Midna encouraged every time he began to slow down.

He thought of something to ask her about but instead just nodded and continued to lead Epona through the field. A little while later they could finally see Castletown in the not so far off distance.

"Link, look!" Midna exclaimed, pointing to a huge Goron stood near the entry gates to the town as though it were a guard.

As soon as he saw the town and castle though, a look of determination became present in his eyes and before Midna could say anything, he was already galloping towards the entrance at lightening speed. The Gorons may look like a scary race, most of them were pretty chilled and easy to get past. Link knew a few of them personally too, which was an advantage to them now.

He couldn't believe that they had made it to the Castle Town in just one day. This was his best timing yet, and even with taking a little break. Both his pride, and his patience with this quest increased just a little.

Now it was time to find the Master Sword and hopefully gain access to the Mirror of Twilight.

Chapter Text

Stood at the entrance to the town, the pair wasted no time getting back to its heart - the fountain. Once there, Link stopped for a moment, unsure of where to look. For a split second he thought about asking around amongst the villagers, but quickly remembered that all of them had no recollection of any events from the past forty-eight hours. Finding the sword was a task that he and Midna would have to figure out for themselves. Staring down into the water at his reflection, he sighed. Since beginning this quest, there had been an unbearable ache in his heart. Every second that passed was a second he would never get back with the Princess. He missed her terribly and not even his best friend could ease that pain.

"Why'd we stop Link?" Midna asked impatiently.

Being so wrapped up in his thoughts, he almost didn't hear her speak. As much as he loved the giddy little imp, he couldn't help but wish that the voice belonged to Zelda. She had always been his voice of reason, the reason he braved the worst situations and fought for Hyrule. She was the one who gave him the strength to keep going, and now... when he needed her guidance and reassurance the most, she wasn't able to be there.

"Link?... Are.. are you okay?" Midna asked, the annoyance now completely gone from her voice.

With a sigh, he straightened his back up and turned around to face her. He avoided her eyes and stared only at his feet on the ground beneath him. These conversations were never really easy, and being known as the Silent Knight had only made people wonder about him, but never bring it up. Other than the Princess, Midna was the only person to ever ask him that question. It should have been simple to answer. A yes or a no. But for him it was far more difficult. He had always refused to open up to anyone besides Zelda, and baring his soul to another felt as though he was betraying her. She would not see it that way, but he would still feel incredibly guilty. The pain was not worth it at all.

"Yes. I am fine. Come on, we don't have much time. We should hurry." He answered, and took the first few steps in the direction towards the castle entrance.

Not wanting to push him, Midna dropped the topic and continued following his lead. The path was very straightforward and it did not take long for them to reach the doors after having done it so many times prior. The two guards that were stood either side of the doors took notice of their presence almost instantly. Not making a sound, Link gave them a reassuring nod to inform them that he had no ill intentions, and once he received their nod of approval he pulled on the handle to the left side door and ventured inside.

Laughter erupted from the Princess as he teasingly chased her through the Castle halls. He didn't have to put much effort into catching up to her as she seemed to feign running away; clearly a way of teasing him back. It was with only one swift swoop of his arm that he caught her around the waist and gripped onto her hip, pulling her close so that their noses were touching. Her dainty giggles were replaced by a meaningful smile as she locked her bluish green eyes on his with a look of adoration.

"Link..." She whispered his name softly.

"Yes, your Highness?" He questioned, lifting his calloused hand to caress her soft cheek.

"I know this is rather inappropriate of me and that I should think about the consequences of what I am about to say but I do not want to withhold the truth any longer." She began to confess.

"Well Princess, that depends on what kind of truth we are speaking of here." He inquired, curious to see where their conversation was headed.

"A rather personal truth... something that is so beautiful that it should not remain hidden but due to unfortunate laws that my father has set would be frowned upon by many others if they were to know." She continued, still not reaching the end of her point.

"You can trust me. As I always have, I will keep your truth confidential if you shall choose to confide in me." He assured her, growing more curious with each second that slipped by.

"Over the years you have always been known as the hero of Hyrule, and you have the respect of almost the entire kingdom... and with that, you have my respect also. You see, you're not just the hero of Hyrule to me but you are my own personal hero too... the one person whom I trust more than anyone else and I can rely on for complete disclosure of all my indiscretions. Throughout our time together it seems that I have grown rather fond of you, to the point where I am quite certain that I am in love with you." She admitted, concluding her point.

Link fell silent once more. The Princess was the only one who'd ever gotten him to speak, and the only one who he had ever poured his heart out too. Hearing her say that she harboured the same kind of love for him that he felt for her made his heart skip a beat and increase rapidly.

"I... I love you too Princess." He stammered, shell shocked by her confession.

"No! You're not understanding. I don't just love you and my protector... it is much more than that." She almost cried.

"I do understand your Highness, and I know what you meant. I was telling you that I requite those feelings that you harbor." He corrected her.

"Oh Link." She swooned feeling his arm tighten around her waist to stop her from hitting the floor.

He stared deep into her eyes for mere seconds before his own fluttered closed and he leaned in closer to her. He could feel the heat of her breath as her lips were only inches apart from his own and it made the temptation to kiss her irresistible. Without quite grasping what he was doing, his lips came crashing down onto hers in a powerful kiss that poured everything he was feeling out in the open between them.

A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he remembered the day so vividly as if it were happening right at this moment. It was in this same hall that he and Zelda had shared their first kiss and confessed their undying love for one another. The memory increased both his pain and his eagerness to rescue his love from the clutches of evil. He wanted nothing more than to hold her in his arms again and kiss her soft lips in an attempt to express his love to her once more. It was a life spent happily accompanied by the Princess that he yearned for.

Once they'd passed through that first hall and into the throne room, he spotted the King pacing back and forth in front of the gold plated royal chairs. He noticed even more distress of the man's face than the last time they'd spoken. As they approached him, Link's stomach dropped. The King no longer looked like a man of royal blood. Underneath his eyes were heaped up bags with black circles around them, and the whites of his eyes had cracked into red veins. He looked more monster than man.

"Your majesty." Link greeted solemnly with a bow of his head out of respect.

"Ah... young warrior. Please tell me that you have some good news?" The King pleaded.

"Unfortunately not. But I can say that we are getting closer to ridding the kingdom of this evil once and for all." He assured the royal.

"Very well... but erh... while you are here, could you take care of the goblin gang that have been so rudely using my dear daughter's bed chambers as a den?" The King requested.

"Of course your majesty. Leave it to us and rest assured, they will be gone before the next time you pass." Link swore, giving the gentle nod of his head to further strengthen the truth of his words.

Heading past the King, he signaled for Midna to follow him, which she obeyed instantly, and headed up the grand staircase of the castle. He dashed up the steps, his feet barely touching the surface, and then turned the corner towards Zelda's bed chambers. As they neared the door he swallowed down a lump that had formed in his throat as he began to remember what had happened the last time he'd been to this room. With a heavy sigh he twisted the door handle and entered the room.

"Your highness, I really think we ought to be more careful... if your father caught us, I would be stripped of my knighthood and unable to protect you." He queried as the Princess dragged him by the hand into her room and closed the door with a giggle.

"My brave Knight, I already told you my father is away on official royal business... he shall not be back until tomorrow afternoon so I think we should make the most of time that we have together, don't you?" She questioned, her eyes wide and bright.

"Indeed I do, Princess." He agreed, caving in as his eyes fell upon her joyful smile.

Happy with his choice to agree with her, she giggled and pulled him closer. Placing his hands on her hips and then snaking her arms up around his neck with her fingers entangled in his dirty blonde locks of hair, she closed her eyes and leaned in to him, planting a sweet kiss on his rough skinned lips. As he felt her lips against his own, his eyes fluttered closed and he began to return the action. After a minute spent with their lips locked together, his mouth began to tingle with both desire and numbness, but the feeling did not bother him. Rather than ending the kiss, he deepened it instead.

Ever since their first kiss, they had not had the chance to spend any proper time together without the risk of being caught. Although he had continued his duties of escorting the Princess everywhere, there had always been guards around or other Hylians roaming the grounds whether they were in Kakariko Village, Ordon Village or even Faron woods. Not one moment where it was safe for them to emphasise their love and make it grow had presented itself. So now that the opportunity has presented itself, the Princess was eager to take advantage of it as much as possible.

He could not blame her for this reaction, although he was better at hiding it, he felt the same too. If her father ever found out, he was certain that all Hell would break loose, but for this one night he wasn't going to worry himself with those thoughts. These precious moments with the Princess were going to be spent focusing solely on her.

Link was quickly snatched from the depths of his memory when one of the goblins that the king had mentioned barrelled into him, knocking him off of his feet. Rolling from his back onto his belly just in time to dodge a slam attack, he hastily unsheathed his sword and took a swing at the withered old monster. The force alone took the goblin's head clean off and sent it rolling down the hall towards the staircase. Using his elbows, he sprung up from his back and landed on his feet with his sword at the ready to slay the rest of the group of monsters. As they all came rushing towards him, he performed a series of attacks that he'd learned back in his training days and moved swiftly to vanquish each and every one of them.

It wasn't until they were all slaughtered that he heard Midna calling him from the inside of Zelda's bed chambers. Returning his sword to its sheath, he hurried inside to see what his loyal companion was calling him so urgently for.

"What is it?" He asked, his eyes frantically searching the room for any signs of trouble.

"I uh... I found something. I think you should see this." Midna stammered, holding up a brown leather bound book.

Reaching and taking it from her hands, Link examined it closely and came to the realisation that the book was in fact, her highnesses journal.

"Zelda's journal? Why should I be looking through this?" He questioned, just about ready to scold Midna for invading Zelda's privacy.

"Look... I didn't mean to, but one of those goblins had knocked it down from the nightstand and it was wide open, when I picked it up to return it to its rightful place, I couldn't help but notice what was written on it." Midna explained defensively.

With a sigh, Link rolled his eyes and glanced down at the little book that was still wide open in his hands. He had not been prepared for what he saw.

"Link?" Midna questioned, moving slowly towards him.

But the hero remained silent, his focus staying on the words scribbled across the page.

Chapter Text

Dear Diary,
Today I learned something. Or rather... I made a discovery. These past few days I have been feeling strange. My lady's maid had suggested that I go see the Castle Town doctor. After hesitating for a little bit, I reluctantly agreed. I hate having to go to places like that unless it is something that is absolutely necessary.

My faithful Knight, who is also the love of my life, escorted me there. However, I had asked him to wait outside since I did not want to alarm him. I told him that it was just a regular check in that had been ordered by my father... oh how I hate withholding the truth.

The hour that I have spent in there really has set the sword in stone for what will become of me. My father cannot know about this until he learns about my relationship with Link. Unfortunately, that will not be an easy thing to inform him of, so I will hold off for as long as possible. Until my secret can no longer be hidden. Though for as long as I hide it from my father, I cannot hide it from my love. He deserves to know the truth. However I do not even know where to begin. How am I supposed to tell him that I am with child? Furthermore that it is his child.

Oh, Goddess Hylia, if you can hear me right now, please give me the strength I need to tell Link the truth that he deserves. All the possible outcomes are killing me. What if he decides that this is not the life for him? Or I am not the one he wants? These thoughts are overwhelming me and he always senses when something is up with me. I do hope that I am able to.... Hold that thought, my Knight has just knocked on my chamber doors. Maybe this is the Goddess answering my prayers...wish me luck with telling him.

______________________________________________________________

"Link?" Midna questioned again.

But he just couldn't form the words he needed to speak. This new information only increased the feeling of urgency he already had. Upon reading the page he had quickly decided that from now on he was not going to take anymore breaks, and would not rest until the Princess was safely in his arms again. Aside the urgency, shock was rattling his body. His mind was buzzing with thoughts about what he'd just read.

Excitement.

Dizziness.

Fear.

He was going to be a father? It was something that he had never considered... or even thought about since he was always off on dangerous missions to save the kingdom. There was never time to think about his legacy and what he would leave behind after he was gone. He had never pictured himself in a home with a white picket fence surrounded by children, but now that he was, it was an image that made him feel all warm and fuzzy. Yesterday was the day when he and Zelda were supposed to be married, and it pained him to let another day slip by. With persistency and determination, he would rescue his love before the week's end and by the end of the following week, they would be husband and wife.

"No time for small talk! We need to get going." He stated sternly, placing the journal back on the nightstand and turning towards the door.

The master sword would not be easy to find. Link knew this for a fact from his many past experiences. There would most likely be a trial; pulling it out of a stone or using many different techniques to prove that he was worthy. It was unclear what had happened to the sword this time though. If Zant and his shadow creatures had not stolen it then someone magical would have picked it up and stored it away, awaiting for his arrival to retrieve it. Without a word to Midna, he headed out of the room and down the stairs, back towards the throne room. Then back into Castle Town centre to where he had left Epona in the care of one of the young lady's.

Speaking a quick thank you and mounting Epona, he dashed off in the the direction of the Castle Town gates. Midna followed quickly behind, trying her best to keep up. Although Link felt guilty about racing off ahead of her, he knew that she would understand his urgency after knowing what she knew. He raced off down the pathway, trampling over any goblins or hogs that came at them in the process. The first destination he was headed, meant that he would have leave Epona somewhere safe before entering, just as he had once before. Continuing on the path towards Ordon Village, he raced through the cave but rather than turning left into the village, he turned right and stopped outside the entrance to Faron Woods.

Dismounting Epona, he was careful not to trample over the budding flowers that Mother Nature had brought along with Spring. Once both feet were firmly on the ground, he waited for Midna to catch up before entering the woods that, by now, he knew all too well.

"Look, my Knight! Do you see it?" The Princess questioned, tapping his shoulder and pointing up into the sky.

Fidgeting and adjusting his position, laid in the grass next to his Princess, he followed her pointed finger and gazed upwards. In between the stars and a few barely visible clouds was a comet, hanging in the sky as though it was held by a piece of string. A smile appeared on his face and he turned his attention back to Zelda, who was laid besides him in the long green grass that covered the field on the outskirts of the woods.

"Yes your highness, I saw it." He informed her, watching the wonder in her eyes burn brighter than a thousand torches.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" She sighed contentedly.

"It sure is... but you are more so." He told her, reaching over and stroking her cheek with his hand.

Her soft skin almost melted into the roughness of his own. To him it felt like curling up with a favourite blanket or cuddly toy, but much more satisfying. The rose colour of her cheeks stood out against her pale face that shone like a pearl in the moonlight. Link dared not to blink. He didn't want to miss one second of being able to admire her beauty and her grace. The silky golden hair that was sprawled out in all directions in the grass above her head, leaving the bare skin of her neck exposed. There was not one thing about her that he did not love, and he was certain that there never would be.

"So... Link... about this new information..." Midna began, unsure of how to approach the subject without causing him to go silent.

"What about it?" Link quizzed as they walked further.

"Oh... I was just wondering if you are okay, you know? Like that's huge news to process, and I'm curious to hear your thoughts." The giddy little imp approached the subject carefully.

Although surprised that she had bothered to bring it up, he still did not stop. In his mind there was no time to. If they were going to have this conversation then it would be one that they had while on the move. He still refused to rest until the Princess was safe again... Zelda, and their unborn baby.

"Honestly... I uh... I really don't know how I feel just yet. All I know is that since reading what I did, the urgency... the desperation... and the pain all increased. If I don't have her back in my arms soon I am going to lose my mind." Link admitted, unable to control the wobble of his voice when he said the last sentence.

Though he'd been thinking a lot since they'd left the castle, he had not yet come to terms with any of it. If anything the only thing he allowed himself to feel at that current moment in time was anger.

Towards the monsters that had killed Ilia.

Towards Zant for unleashing the evil within him upon their peaceful kingdom.

But most of all, anger towards himself... for letting his guard down long enough that Zelda had fallen victim to yet another evil force. If he had just been fast enough in his moves, the Princess would still be by his side and nothing but happiness would be filling the Kingdom.

"Relax buddy... Look, I promise that we will find her in time, okay. We will not fail to save your Kingdom, or mine." Midna reassured him.

With no words left to say, he gave his companion an understanding nod to let her know that he appreciated her enthusiastic words. By now they were so deep in the woods that a thick fog had begun to surround them. Link was done talking now. If they were to make through the thick substance, it would require maximum concentration, just as it had the first time around.

_________________________________________

Chapter Text

Link was able to find his way around the woods very easily due to the many trips he had made to them with his father when he was just a young boy. Everything he knew about hunting boar, and paying attention to little details to ensure he could find his way back, he had learned it all from his father. However, this time he wasn't just sticking to the parts of the woods that he already knew. Instead he was heading for the Lost Woods, which he'd only ever visited once before and hadn't been back since. Not a single Hylian had ever set foot inside, other than himself. He never imagined that he would be back here.

"Link... Where are you leading us?" Midna asked, growing concerned as she took in their surroundings.

"Hush! I need to concentrate. You'll find out soon enough." He scolded, focusing extremely hard on remembering the route through this stranger set of woods.

As he turned his attention from Midna back to the strange woods ahead of them, he stopped in his tracks for the first time since leaving the castle. He felt his heart begin to thump harder and harder in his chest as though it were a prisoner getting frustrated and trying to break out. Every other movement from his body ceased as he stared blankly into the darkness. In the midst of the fog, he could only just make out different shapes that formed images moving around him.

"I never thought that you would be such a disappointment!"

Hearing those words, he stammered back, both confused and shocked by what he'd just heard. Turning to his companion, his eyes filled with hurt and fear, he did not understand what he'd just heard.

"Midna, what? Why would you...?" He questioned, slowly backing away from her.

"Why would I what?" She asked confused by what he was referring to.

"Say that to me?" He trembled, unable to keep the quiver out of his voice.

"Huh?... Link, I really don't get what you mean." Midna answered confused.

"You are no son of mine!"

As the realisation of who the voice belonged to dawned on Link, a scene began to play right in front of his eyes. A day of pain that he had worked hard to bury ever since. He never thought that he would be watching it play back to him. Being unable to stop the memory from forming, it became almost unbearable. Never in his life had he wanted to squint his eyes shut and scream for help as much as he did now.

"You're a weakling. I brought you out here to learn to shoot deer but it turns out that you are so faint of heart that you can't even handle a simple hunting trip!" His father scolded.

Hearing the man's words, Link's shoulders slumped and he lowered his crossbow in defeat. Avoiding meeting his father's eyes, he kept his own on the ground. He did not want to reveal the tears that were stinging his eyes as he held them back. It wasn't the hunting trip... that he could handle. But they weren't hunting for boar or anything, instead they were targeting innocent deers. Beautiful creatures that also happened to be Zelda's favourite. He just didn't have the strength to drive an arrow through their hearts for the sake of eating a bit of meat for once.

"Father please... give me another chance! I can do this... just not the deer, I'm begging you.... anything but them." He pleaded, still unable to look him in the eyes.

"Do not beg me! You are not a dog, so do not act like one." His father boomed.

"I'm sorry." Link whispered.

His father had always been tough on him but never once had he been so harsh. Ashamed was too weak of a word to describe how he felt.

"Don't apologise either. It's simple. Just shoot the dumb deer, and then I will be happy with you for once in my life. All I ask of you is that you are not pathetic." The man sneered.

"O-Okay..." He stammered, raising his crossbow once again.

Clenching his teeth together, he focused as hard as he could on the oblivious doe that was chewing blades of grass only a few feet away from them. With his lip trembling, and his hands shaking, he made the shot. The arrow flew through the air and struck the deer in its side. The fragile creature let out an agonising shriek and fell to the ground. Link's heart just couldn't take it anymore after hearing its cry. A dangerous level of guilt filled him and the bow slipped from his hands, clattering on the ground below. Swallowing hard, trying to rid himself of the lump in his throat, breathing became harder and harder until eventually he was gasping for air. It wasn't until he heard his father screaming at him and felt the man's rough hands strike the back of his head, that he realised he'd fallen on his knees in the grass with unstoppable amounts of tears flooding down from his eyes like a waterfall.

"I warned you what would happen if you did not put aside your personal feelings Link! You're a mess. A disappointment. Until you man up I shall not see you as my son!" His father spat, swinging his foot with full force into his stomach before turning around and walking away.

"Father no! Father!" Link screamed.

Midna froze besides him, completely dumbfounded by his sudden outburst. She couldn't see anything ahead of then other than mist covered path and sky high trees that towered over them like a garden of giant beanstalks. It frightened her to see him like this since he was usually so calm and composed about everything. This was different. She'd never seen him completely lose himself this way before, and especially not crying out loud in such deep pain.

"Link!" She shrieked, growing alarmed.

For a moment, when his desperate cries had stopped, she thought that she had managed to get through to him. But he did not speak at all. He just stood next to her in complete silence, still staring ahead of them as though she hadn't even spoken.

"Link!" His father's voice bellowed from downstairs.

Rushing down the stairs, tripping over his feet multiple times as he went, Link was curious to see what had brought his father's interest back to him. The man had not spoken to him since that day in the woods and he hadn't been out of his room in at least a week. Once he reached the bottom, he hastily crossed the room to where his father was waiting by the entrance to the house. Eagerly, like a puppy in training, he waited for the man to speak. He was dying to know what had finally put an end to the silent treatment that he was getting.

"Link, the King has requested to see you. I am not sure why he would bother with you but I suggest that you go and find out before he changes his mind." His father informed him.

Afraid to say something that might anger his father, he gave a nod and turned to leave. He was excited about this meeting with the King and wanted to make a good impression. It was his dream was to one day become a Knight, like the ones he saw often around Castle Town. He looked up to them and had since the first time he'd ever seen them in combat.

"IT'S NOT REAL!" Midna cried at the top of her lungs.

For the first time, Link finally tore his eyes away from the mist that plagued the woods and turned his attention Midna. At first, relief washed through her as she began to think that she had finally managed to get him back down to earth, but the feeling soon faded as she noticed that his eyes were void of any emotion, and he was not looking at her, but rather behind her.

"Link! Please... help me! He's going to kill me!"

Alarm bells rang in his ears as he heard the Zelda's voice echo through the outdoors. Without a warning he changed directions and almost sprinted down the path to the right. He never had a doubt when he heard her voice. It was always a sign on what to do, and that was something he desperately prayed for right now. As he ran, the voices in his head grew louder. It wasn't just the voice of the Princess. He could hear his father as clear as day too, telling him that he'd be failing, the pleas of the King who had become a broken shell without his daughter safe and sound, and Ilia... the one he'd failed to save. Her death still haunted him, and it probably always would... but he wasn't about to fail Zelda the same way he'd failed her.

"Link... please slow down! We need to get through these woods to find the sword." Midna called, struggling to keep up with him.

"No! If I stop moving she will die!" He yelled breathlessly.

"STOP! Link, you're gonna hurt yourself!" The imp warned.

"I don't care! The Princess needs me... I have to find the sword and fast. I don't have time to get lost in these woods." He called back.

Struggling to breathe, Link still refused to stop moving. Hearing the pained cries of the Princess had hurt his heart more than he cared to admit, and asides from that, he just wanted to have her back by his side. He felt incredibly lonely without her. Despite Midna's presence, he was drowning in his thoughts and feelings. The only person he'd ever bared his soul to was Zelda, and without her to talk him through these painful memories, he was afraid that he might break completely. If that happened then Hyrule, Zelda, Midna and the Twilight folk were doomed. He was the only one who could save them, nothing could allow him to shake that responsibility.

After a while, he began to slow. Not because he wanted to, but because his legs just take anymore. Before he could fully stop, his knees buckled and he found himself on the ground, breathing rapidly and shallow. He hadn't quite realised just how far and long he'd gone for. He glanced over his shoulder to locate Midna, who seemed to have fallen very far behind, before returning his focus to what was ahead of him. There was no time to react to what he was confronted with as soon as he turned his head. Three Shadow Beings, as black as midnight towered over his kneeling form, closing in on him. Their hideous deformed bodies blocking any view he had beyond them. As he went to withdraw his sword from its sheath, the creature in the centre let out an ear piercing shriek before violently shaking it's head. Tentacle-like structures hung from its face and slapped the sword right out of his hands as it continued to shake.

"Link! No...." He heard Midna cry.

He had no strength left in him to fight though, and the second that they reached were laid hands on him, his whole body collapsed under pressure from exhaustion and his eyes fluttered closed, providing him with just a tiny shred of relief. The last thing he heard was Midna's horrified screams.

_________________________________________

Chapter Text

"Hello!"

"Anybody there?" Link called.

Darkness. He could see nothing but pitch black encasing him. Try as he might, he just couldn't recall anything prior to this moment, nor how he'd gotten there. If he didn't find out some kind of information, he would drive himself crazy trying to theorise. It had taken him only seconds to decide that he was going to at least try. Placing both hands down on the unfamiliar surface that he could only assume was something metal, he hoisted himself up into a sitting position - and instantly regretted the move. A thumping in his head began the moment he moved it, and a stinging sensation in his side grew stronger. Wincing at the pain, he almost laid back down, but with his curiosity cancelling out the hurt, he managed to get to his feet.

"Hello?" He called again into the darkness, desperate for a reply.

When the only thing that answered him was the echo of his own voice, he gave up trying and instead decided to find a way out for himself. Taking his first few steps forward, he felt a little unsteady as he could not see where he was treading. With no light at all it was impossible to go forward. He wasn't sure exactly where he was, so did not want to chance walking into a trap.

"Link!" Zelda's voice came through the empty room.

The second her voice reached his ears, his head jerked up and a small glimmer of hope filled him. Although he could not see a thing, he looked around frantically trying to pinpoint the direction that her voice had came from.

"Link..." Her voice sounded again.

"Princess?... Where are you?" He stammered, overwhelmed by the little piece of hope that he had been granted.

Unable to stop himself, he took a few more steps forward, certain that her voice had come from somewhere in front of him. He stopped after only three more steps, once again uncertain of where he was.

"Your highness?... Please... If it's really you then show yourself, my love... give me a sign." He called out.

The hope he had been holding onto began to slip away as he waited for the Princess to present herself to him. A few minutes passed and his head dropped as he sighed in defeat, that was when it happened. Much to his surprise, something finally began to change. A small white dot appeared on the ground below him, floating upwards slowly before hovering in front of his line of vision. Although small, the light was bright enough that it stung his eyes as he stared at it in a dazed wonder. He couldn't help but watch as it began to float up higher again, this time expanding as it went. In a split second it had become big enough that Link could now begin to make out the shapes of his surroundings. Through the light, another shape began to form - this one was in the form of a person. It took Link no time at all to figure out who it was. He didn't even have to guess at all.

"Princess?" He questioned, blinking twice to confirm that what he was seeing was real.

The shadow which had formed in the light, was no longer a shadow at all now. Link could see very clearly, the person stood before him. A woman in a white wedding-type dress, with locks of dark golden blonde hair flowing beautifully down her back and cascading around her shoulders. It was not that which caught his attention though, but rather the pure white angel wings protruding from her back, spread widely out.

"My love..." Link stammered, his eyes stinging from both the light and unshed tears in his eyes.

He watched helplessly as joined her hands together in a prayer position and smiled at him. In her smile he could see both warmth and sympathy for him. As she got closer to him, stopping only a few feet away from where he was stood, he had to swallow to keep his nerves at bay.

"Link... It is nice to finally get a chance to speak with you after all these years." She began.

"Years!" He exclaimed in shock.

It had only been days since he last saw the Princess, so he could not understand why she had used the word years. He wanted to ask, but he couldn't bring himself to speak, so instead he just waited for her to continue.

"I know that you are probably confused right now, so please allow me to clarify... You, my dear, are mistaken. I am not your Princess at all..." She began.

"B..But..." He stuttered, now even more confused than before.

"Allow me to introduce myself... It's nice to finally meet you Link, my name is Hylia. Though you may know me as the Goddess." She stated, her voice warm but powerful.

Link's jaw dropped open in shock. He had always heard the stories about the Goddess, about how the Princess bared a resemblance to her, but never in a thousand years had he thought that they were almost identical. Stood there now though, looking right at her, he finally saw that all the legends and stories were true.

"Oh my... Goddess, I uh... it's a pleasure to be in your presence... b..but may I ask what this visit is for?" He stammered, feeling somewhat idiotic.

The Goddess Hylia just gave a chuckle at his inability to find the right words before moving to the side so that he could see what was behind her. It appeared that he was in some sort of tomb that led to a garden. His eyes drifted back and forth between the garden and the Goddess.

"Young hero, I am here to take you on a journey. Many do not understand, and I doubt they ever will, but the most important thing is that you understand yourself. I can see that you have some repressed memories... I am here to fix that and help you fill in those gaps." Hylia explained.

Link nodded in understanding. He knew that there were some holes in what he remembered, and he also knew that they were there because he had shut out all the bad. This journey was not going to be all pleasant, he was certain of that fact. Though he did not know how far back the Goddess was taking him, he prepared himself for the endless possibilities.

****************************************************************

"Impaz! Impaz! I need your help! Please, I don't know what to do." Midna called out, having just warped herself and Link's limp body from the Lost Woods, all the way to Kakariko.

Being in imp form, it was physically impossible for her to carry the fallen hero anywhere and so she had been forced to use the power of warping to get them somewhere safe. She had been too slow to stop the attack and by the time she had managed to fight them off, Link was already unconscious. She hadn't known where to take him and the only safe place that came to her mind was Kakariko. It was the place where the only person Midna knew could help them lived.

"IMPAZ!" Midna almost screamed.

The second she did, many of the villagers came rushing out of their houses and shops to see what all the commotion was about. Through them all, she could just about make out the sight of the woman who she was hoping to see. The small woman with pearly white hair came running over to her, stopping a few steps away when she caught sight of the hero sprawled on the dirty ground.

"Oh my... Dear Midna, what happened to our young hero?" Impaz questioned as she bent down to place two fingers on Link's neck to check his pulse.

"We were out in the Lost Woods, searching for the location of the Master Sword and we got ambushed by the hideous Shadow Creatures! Oh Impaz, please help... he got hurt really badly and you're the only one I know of who can possibly heal him...." Midna explained rather quickly.

"My Goddess! We have to move fast! His wound is deep and bleeding, his pulse is there but weak... if we don't treat him now then he will die." Impaz informed Midna.

The elderly woman then turned to Rustl, who was in Kakariko on official business, signaling for him to pick the hero up and bring him inside, where she would be able to see to him properly.

****************************************************************
"If you are to know your full story, I have to take you back some of your most painful memories that you have repressed, so that is where we shall head first." Hylia explained.

The Goddess then held out her hand for Link to take, which after a second hesitating, he did. The next thing he knew they were travelling through some sort of shadowed tunnel. As soon as they arrived, he knew instantly exactly where they were. What he did not recognise however, was the time that they were in. The first sight to catch his eye was his father and the King of Hyrule, in the throne room of the castle. A rather young Princess Zelda, and a young version of himself, who couldn't have been no older than eleven years old, were also in the room, sat on the small steps that led up to the two thrones.

"I uh... this feels familiar." Link admitted.

"As it should. Now hush... you really should focus on what comes next." Hylia instructed him.

He made no argument and simply followed her instructions, turning his attention back to the scene in front of them and concentrating hard.

"Link..." The Princess began.

He watched closely as his younger self lifted his gaze from the floor and looked at Zelda. Anxiety kicked in as he tried to anticipate what would happen next, even though he knew that he would not remember unless watched. Giving in, he brought his mind back to the scene and watched carefully.

"Your father seems awfully angry with you... so much so that he seems to be trying to convince my father to expel you from Knight training... is everything okay?" She asked, her voice laced with concern.

"Oh... yes. Everything is fine." He lied.

"Link, I do wish that you would open up to me more... it pains me to be this helpless. It also feels as though you do not trust me enough... you should know that I would never tell anyone. Especially not either of our fathers." She sighed sadly.

"Princess... I... Of course I trust you. Please do not take my silence as sign of mistrust." He pleaded, feeling guilty.

"If that were true then you would speak to me about such things. That I know for certain, as you made a pledge when you entered training, that as my potential future Knight you would be completely honest." She objected, rising from where they were sat.

"Zel..." Link began, but the Princess was quick to interrupt.

"No! It is unfair that I share everything with you, and yet you insist on keeping things from me. Until you decide to trust me, I don't wish to see you." She stated, turning on her heel and walking away.

As the Goddess and his present self travelled back through the tunnel, Link remembered that afternoon as clear as day. His father had caught him training with a crossbow and because he'd missed due to having eyes on him, the man had dragged him all the way to the castle and attempted to convince the King to expel him. Much to his surprise it had not worked and the King had decided to keep him in training. He had wanted to tell the Princess everything in that moment, but after seeing his father's angry eyes, he knew that all Hell would break loose if he uttered a word, and so he'd remained silent at the cost of his friendship with the Princess. She didn't speak to him for almost two weeks after that until finally he couldn't take anymore of his father's attitude and had snuck out late one night to meet her at the fountain to tell her everything that he owed her.

It was those two weeks that had taught him that closing himself off from the Princess was not a good idea. He remembered going home that night and crying himself to sleep out of loneliness and fear that she would never forgive him. He had tried long and hard to forget those two weeks and somewhere along the way, it seemed to have worked.

Chapter Text

"Come on Link... Wake up... Hyrule needs you. Your friends and Epona need you. The Princess needs you." Midna whispered in his ears.

"My dear Midna, I am afraid that being in the catatonic state that he is, he won't be able to hear you. All that we can do for him has already been done. The only thing left to do is wait for him to awaken." Impaz informed her while gently pulling her away from the hero that was laid on the table.

Midna sighed in defeat and allowed herself to be led away from her best friend. She wished desperately that there was something that she could do to help rather than just sitting around and waiting. She felt guilty for being unable to stop the attack or at least help Link fight them off.

"Oh I'm sorry... I just really wish that there was some way to help." She stated.

"Well if you'd really like to do something, maybe you should go and bring Epona back here, ready for when he will travel again." The small old lady suggested.

"Of course! I can't believe I forgot about her. I'll be back in no time!" Midna exclaimed excitedly and rushed out of the building.

Maybe there wasn't a way to help Link directly right now, but the least that she could do was bring his horse back to safety for him.

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"This next memory is quite dark, I should warn you. There are only three left now, but they will not be easy on you. Are you sure you're ready for it?" Hylia warned.

"Not exactly... But there's no time for me to be ready. The Princess needs my help, and I have to do whatever it takes." Link replied determinedly.

Although he was not quite sure how he'd gotten to this point, he had not forgotten the current situation nor the quest that he'd been on when he had somehow ended up here. There were so many questions that he wanted to ask the Goddess, but at the same time he knew that there was absolutely no time to waste... so he settled on the most important question only.

"Um... Erh... Goddess, I was just wondering if I may ask you how it is that I got here?" He stammered nervously.

"Oh you poor boy... You really have no clue, do you?... Very well then. I shall explain. You see, you're not physically here. That nice companion of yours and yourself were out in the woods when you got attacked. You got hurt pretty badly and right now your physical body is banged up in Kakariko, whilst your mind is here... working through your trauma in attempt to become stronger to stand a better chance at fighting Zant." Hylia explained.

Panic and fear coursed through him as he took in what was being said. If he wasn't physically here, but rather unconscious in Kakariko Village, then that meant that no progress was being made in his quest and with each second that passed, the Princess was in greater danger. He couldn't stand the idea of being too late to save her. His desperation to get back to his physical body grew stronger than ever.

"Let's see these last three memories please, so that I can finally get back to my body and save her." Link requested in a voice that was monotonous.

"Very well then, let's go." Hylia agreed and began leading him down yet another tunnel.

This one led him back to his former home village, where he had been residing when the Twilight invasion had begun. Being back now, Link felt a mix of both comfort and pain. The people here had treated him like one of their own for as long as he was there, they were like family to him. But he couldn't help feeling the absence of the one who mattered most out of all there. Ilia. Though he knew that because this was only a memory, she was still alive here.

"When was this?" Link asked curiously.

"Stay focused. You shall remember when you witness this." Hylia told him.

Link did not bother to argue with this and instead turned his attention to the scene that was unfolding in front of him.

Ilia, with Epona's reigns in her hands, leading the horse along with her, approached Link's old house. The young girl turned around to face Epona and placed a hand on her muzzle, stroking gently with her fingers.

"Do not worry girl, I know that Link will take good care of you. He has the most gentle heart in the entire kingdom, other than the Princess herself of course." She soothed the horse.

Turning around, she lets go of the reigns and heads towards the house, up the wooden ladder and knocks gently on the front door. In only a second, it opens and Link stands before her. She smiles at him sweetly before gesturing for him to step outside with her for a moment.

Present Link watched intensely as his past self smiled back and followed through with Ilia's request, coming outside and shutting the door behind him before gesturing for her to climb down first. Once they were both on the ground below, the girl walked forward, bringing him to Epona.

"Master Link... This my loyal mare, Epona. Unfortunately father says that we can no longer keep her because we do not have enough rupees to feed ourselves. Since I know that you travel a lot, which must get tiring, and I know that you will look after her properly, I would like for you to become her owner." Ilia explained, her voice solemn but hopeful.

Link's heart sank as he heard her little speech. He wished that there was some way that he could help Ilia to keep the horse that clearly meant to much to her. But there was only one thing he could think to do.

"Yes, Ilia, I would be honoured to own Epona. However I see that she means a great deal to you, so I will take her in as long as you promise to come visit her as often as you can." Link requested.

"Oh Master Link! I would love that!" The young girl shrieked in delight.

"Thank you for trusting me with her." He replied as she fussed over Epona's windswept mane.

"You're welcome. I will take her now to get her ready for you. Meet me at the Faron Spring in exactly one hour." Ilia told him as she began to lead the horse away.

"Yeah, you got it." He called after her.

As the memory came to an end, Link turned back to the Goddess. Though he was particularly fond of it, he had buried all of the meaningful moments that he shared with Ilia, ever since her death. His heart had not been able to bear it and he couldn't afford to let himself weaken before Hyrule was not under threat and the Princess safely in his arms once again.

"Why would you show me that?" He questioned, barely able to form the words.

"Because... In order to stop the creature's from Twili getting into your head, you need to feel your pain and deal with it accordingly." Hylia stated knowingly.

"Here's the thing though, I just don't know how to do that." He admitted.

"It is very simple Master Link. All you have to do is talk." She answered.

"But I do talk..." He corrected her, confused by her words.

"Talk to the Princess, she is the one can help you heal." She explained.

"I do... But it is impossible for me to do so right now because-" Link began to ramble.

"Don't be so sure about that." Hylia interrupted.

"What are you...?" He began to question but trailed off when he turned around.

Mouth open wide in shock, Link almost couldn't believe his eyes. Stood by the entrance, the glowing light of the outdoors outlining her perfect body, was Zelda.

"It's okay Link... This is her spirit. I am keeping her safe from Zant, while her physical body is in his presence." Hylia assured him.

"P... Princess." He greeted in a stammer.

"Hello Link, my valiant Knight." She greeted, as he walked towards her.

There was so much that he wanted to say, yet he knew that he did not have much time with her. He wished with his whole heart that he could stay in this moment forever, but it just wasn't possible. Instead, he would make the most of these precious minutes that he did have.

Chapter Text

Staring in disbelief, Link didn't quite know what to say. He had mustered up the courage to walk over to her and take both of her Porcelain like hands into his own, rough and calloused ones.

"It's good to see you Link."

"It's good to see you too, Princess."

"My dear Knight, I see that you have been struggling a lot since starting this quest..."

"Oh Zelda, it's not a big deal, really it's not. I can carry on, it's not a problem at a-"

"Hush, it's okay. You are allowed to admit that you're struggling, we all need help at times." She interrupted.

Dropping his hands to his side, his face twisted into an expression of pain as he struggled with his memories.

"But I have no recollection of the events of that night. How am I supposed to save you and the rest of Hyrule when I can't remember?"

"Oh Link... You can do it. I believe in you, and I always will."

"Please, I need to know what happened that night."

With his pleading eyes burning into her own, Zelda tore her eyes away for a few seconds, weighing up their options. If she were to fill him in on those events, it might be the final straw that could break him. But then again, if she kept the information to herself, Link wouldn't stand a chance against Zant.

"Alright, I shall tell you but in return you have to promise me one thing."

"Anything. Of course, anything you want."

"Please Link... Do not let the recollection of those events crush you."

"I promise."

Satisfied with his cooperation, the Princess stood silent for a second, going over the events in her head before speaking them aloud to ensure that she had everything in order.

"You see, after you passed out, those despicable creatures attempted to attack you while you were down. I couldn't just stand by and watch so I made a move. Before they could touch you, I grabbed the Master Sword from where you had dropped it, and I managed to slay them somehow... But then Zant himself showed up, and I just... I wasn't strong enough to take him down alone."

Link stared at his love in shock at this new piece of information. He wasn't surprised at all about the Princess fighting, he always knew that she was capable of that. Instead he was more surprised at Zant showing up, and was desperate to hear the rest of the story.

"Stupidly, he tried to lay his hands on the sword, which shocked him. That gave me just enough time to call on Hylia and have her store the sword away deep into Faron Woods, inside the Sacred Grove where the Temple of Time is located. Before I could use the power provided by the Triforce, Zant had already recovered and he used his powers to weaken my own. As soon as I was too weak to move, he closed in on me and used one final hit to knock me unconscious. After that he left you lying on the floor and took my body with him into the Twilight Realm, storing it in a glass coffin." She finished explaining.

Silently seething, Link tried his best not to let her see his anger. It was not directed at her, but instead the King of Twilight, Zant. It wasn't enough that he had cursed Midna, but he kidnapped Zelda and had even gone as far as to harm her physical body. He wanted not only to murder Zant, but to make him suffer in the process.

Though he knew that the Princess, no matter what the monster had done, would be disappointed if he ever took pleasure in any of his killings besides that of goblins and monsters. He would not disrespect her by being so full of hate and malice. All he would do is take down Zant and banish him to a place where he would never be able to hurt anyone ever again.

"Link, are you okay?" She questioned.

"Yes. I'm fine."

"I think now you will stand a much better chance at going up and winning against Zant."

"Don't you worry Princess, I won't let you down. I know that you need me right now. Both you do."

Confused by his last sentence, Zelda tilted her head to the side with a questioning look upon her face.

"What do you-"

"I know."

"You know? Know what?"

"I know about the pregnancy."

"Oh... I... Link, I'm so sorry. I was going to tell you, I swear." She rambled in panic.

"Hey, hey. It's quite alright. I know that you had good reasons for hiding it from me and I forgive you... Furthermore, I promise that I will not let you down. From now on I am going to stay strong in the face of any challenges and I will have you safe in my arms once again." He stated.

Touched by his noble words, Zelda couldn't help but tear up a little at how loyal he remained to her, even after all this time and after she had kept the biggest secret from him. Before speaking again, she threw her arms around him in the biggest embrace she'd ever given anyone.

"I have no doubt in you at all. I know that you will succeed." She assured him.

Withdrawing herself from his arms, she took both his hands into her own and this time held his eyes with hers. Looking into his lapis lazuli eyes, all of his anguish and his struggles over the past few days had become visible to her. In a matter of only three days he had been tormented to the point of breaking by the darkness in Sacred Grove and lost his childhood best friend.

Zelda's heart ached for Link after seeing everything that he had been through and all for the sake of her safety.

"Oh my... You poor soul... There's so much pain in your heart."

"It's nothing really, especially in comparison to the pain that your absence brings."

"Link, please stay strong. Have faith in yourself as I do in you. I know that you will conquer this quest and we will be reunited." She reassured.

"But Princess, I am not that strong."

"Yes you are. You just have to believe it."

"There is just one more thing before you go... I was meant to tell you that night but I never got the chance."

"Go on, tell me now... We don't have much time."

"I was going to say that... Well... A few years ago... Back after the Twilight take over, I was hanging out with Ilia, allowing her to spend some time with her beloved Epona and... we were talking about life and then she kinda... Uh... kissed me."

The smile on Zelda's face fell and a knot began to form in Link's stomach. Was this something unforgivable? He dreaded her response.

"Y... You kissed her?" She stammered.

"No! She kissed me... It didn't go any further than that though. As soon as she planted her lips on mine, I pulled away and made it clear that you are the one I want... You know I would never hurt you like that."

"Right. Of course."

"Awe Zelda... I'm sorry, I didn't-"

"Just answer me one question."

"Sure."

"Did it mean anything to you?"

"No. Of course not. The only one who has ever meant something to me is you. No one else has my heart captured the way you do."

"Well... If that is the case then I can forgive you."

Relief washed over Link as he gave his love one final look before she faded away as their time to talk had come to an end. He was glad to get that off his chest, and despite the guilt, he did not feel as bad now that she knew about it.

"Now come, young hero, it is time for your final memories." Hylia called to him.

Turning his full attention back to the Goddess, he finally felt ready to see this through.

Chapter Text

Following the Goddess through the same tunnel that he had previously, he felt less afraid of what awaited him on the other side. Now that he had spoken to the Princess, he was more confident that he could handle whatever he was confronted with.

As they neared the end, he began to recognise exactly what was at the end of it. Stepping out into the light of day, the first thing he laid eyes on was his father. He knew instantly that this memory was not going to be a good one.

"Link... Son... Come." His father, Marcus, called out.

The hero watched intensely as his younger self stopped practising the unique moves that he had been learning, lowered his wooden sword and headed over to where his father was stood.

"Yes father?" He questioned.

"There is someone here to see you."

With that news, his eyes lit up in the hopes that that someone there was the Princess. Eagerly, he followed his father's lead into their small house only to be hit with colossal disappointment when instead of Zelda, it was his grandfather stood waiting for him. He knew, without a doubt, what was coming next.

His father was already considered to be the strongest Knight in the Royal army, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and great grandfather. So naturally, he was expected to follow that same path and when he did not... When he broke the mould and followed no instructions but his own while in combat training and sword fighting, it caused his father and grandfather to become greatly disappointed in him. Since then he had become known as the weak point, a liability.

"Oh..." Was the only word to slip out of his mouth.

"Oh?... Oh! That is no way to great your elders boy!" The older man boomed.

"I'm sorry Grampa."

"Sir! You call me Sir!"

"Yes Sir."

"Son, my father has come to talk some sense into you. Since you refuse to listen to me, I was hoping that he could get through to you."

"What? No! Dad, don't you get it? I am never going to be like you or follow in those same footsteps. I'm different, I didn't ask to be and I don't know why, but I just am and there is nothing that you can say or do that can change that. Why can't you just accept me for who I am?" He protested.

"Because it's not right! You are a freak and it doesn't look good on this family's name. I hate to think what your poor mother would say if she were alive today. Either you start behaving appropriately and following instructions or you forfeit the family name."

"I'm a freak?" Link repeated, hurt but not surprised by his father's words.

"Your fighting method is weird, you're quieter than the others and you don't fall in line... What do you think that makes you?"

"Different. That's what it makes me. I'm not a freak just because I don't want to follow in your footsteps."

"Listen to your father boy, you will only regret it later if you don't."

"No! I won't. I'm going to continue to do things my way and one day I am going to be the one to protect the Princess!" He raised his voice determinedly.

A roar of laughter erupted from both his father and his grandfather as soon as the words left his mouth. It left him wondering what he had said that was so funny but before he got the chance to ask  the laughter faded and their faces changed becoming serious.

"Ah the Princess... I should have known that it is your silly infatuation with her that's preventing you from becoming the Knight that you are destined to be."

"For the love of Hylia! This boy has some serious issues if he thinks that the Princess of Hyrule is ever going to appoint him as her Knight." His grandfather chuckled.

Anger boiled up inside Link as he stood before the two men, watching them belittle and mock him for his ambitions and his connection to Zelda.

"Stop it! Stop It! STOP IT!" He cried.

"Oh my poor son, how very gullible you are. You, a mere commoner trying to ignite a flame with a royal... ahahaha dream on kid, that's never going to happen."

"You don't know that! What we share is special."

"No Link, you're special... In the sense that you actually believe that you have a shot with her. Let me tell you this now, a snotty nosed bratty Princess like her is never going to want such a loser like you. She is nothing to you but a distraction and if this carries on I will have no choice but to convince the King to forbid her from seeing you."

"But you can't do that! She is not a snotty little brat... Zelda is kind and caring, she is loyal and honest and she has the purest heart I've ever known... And you are wrong about her. She doesn't distract me at all, instead she motivates me... Which is more than I can say for you."

"Link I-"

"No! I wasn't done. I've tried so hard to get you to accept me the way I am. I will make a good Knight despite my unique fighting style and one day I will be her highnesses sole protector and more. I don't care what you say, I am done trying to please you. If you don't want me to have the family name then fine! From now on I shall be known as Link, and only that. I don't want your last name and I don't need it. I respect you always, but I need to step away and find my own path. Goodbye Marcus!"

"Link, wait!" Marcus called as his son turned to leave.

"What?"

"I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't have been so hard on you but it's only because I want you to be better than I ever was. You seem to have already mastered that though."

"This thing I have with her... It's not just an infatuation. Look at yourself and mother... You love her and you hate yourself for being unable to save her that day. You know what is real and not which means that you should know how serious I am about protecting her."

"You're right. But the truth was... The reason why I let your mother die was because I allowed myself to put my duties as one of the royal Knights before her. You will never make that mistake, with the Princess or anyone else... I know that."

"I'm sorry that I couldn't be the son that you wanted dad... I tried, I really did. Now I just need to lead my own way in life. Please... Let me go."

"Of course. As much as it pains me, after everything I have put you through, you deserve this much. Goodbye Link, and good luck out there."

"Thank you." Link whispered as he took his father's outstretched hand into his own and shook it.

After saying goodbye, he mounted Epona, his only constant companion and rode off into the night, towards Hyrule Castle, determined to speak with the Princess and tell her what his intentions were. He would not make the same mistakes that his father had.

The memory of that day came to an end and their surroundings faded away like a blackout at the end of a movie, and once again he found himself with Goddess, back in the same place that he had been talking with Zelda's spirit only minutes ago.

"That was..." He began to speak but trailed off.

"That was the day that you finally stood up to your father and began your journey to become the protector of the Princess." Hylia finished.

"It was that night that I also confessed to Zelda that I wasn't just humouring her, that I was serious about becoming her protector."

"Yes. This topic brings us to the final memory that you need to remember before you continue with your quest."

"Memory that I need?" He questioned.

"Exactly. The first real time you and Zelda got to spend together away from the castle and its ground."

This time, rather than a tunnel, Hylia led him through a heavenly looking door. On the other side was a memory that Link had never quite forgotten, but had simply been buried by many other amazing memories of times that he'd shared with Zelda.

Link watched as his fifteen year old self ran and hid behind one of the bushes near the castle as one of the guards passed by; He could not be seen on castle grounds at this hour, it would give him a bad name with the King and guards.

Once the coast was clear, he stood up straight and pulled a twig out of his blonde locks before gathering a few small stones in the palm of his hand. Taking one at a time, he began throwing them at Zelda's bedroom window, causing a tapping sound.

It was only seconds before she appeared on the little balcony that encased the wall outside her room.

"Link? What are you doing here? You will be in so much trouble if my father finds out."

"Just come down here... Please, I can explain."

"Alright. Give me five and meet me near the fountain in Castle Town." She instructed him.

"As you wish, Princess."

Satisfied with her response, he happily headed away from the castle and back into the town, stopping once he reached the fountain. Taking a seat on the edge of  the stone base, he patiently waited for the Princess to arrive. Though he could not keep the big grin off his face.

The five minutes that had been requested flew by and it wasn't long before Zelda appeared, walking towards him. Rather than her usual white and purple gown, she was instead wearing a royal blue dress, not long enough to be a gown and too long to be a night dress. It was only when she stopped a few feet in front of him, that he realised it was silky tunic type dress.

"Thank you for coming, your highness."

"Link, please... It's Zelda. Now what brings you here at such an hour? It's really early." She questioned.

"Well your hig- Uh... Zelda, remember how you've been wishing that you could do more, but due to the restrictions of the castle and town, there are some things that you can't...?"

"Yeah?" She said questioningly.

"I have decided that I am going to make your wish come true."

"What on earth do you mean?"

"Come with me somewhere."

"Where?"

"Ehh... That would ruin the surprise."

"But-"

"Please Zelda, just trust me. I promise that you will be safe."

"Alright. I believe you. After all, you have come to my aid so many times that it would be rude of me not to trust you."

Happy with her choice, Link offered up his arm like a true gentleman, and once Zelda had taken it, he began walking, leading her away from the fountain and towards the exit of the town.

It didn't take long, with the help of Epona, to reach the destination; Upper Zora's Upper River.

"Oh Link, it's so beautiful here today. Just listen to how peaceful it is, with only the sound of the birds song and - Look! Did you see that?"

"A Hyrule Bass!"

"Those are incredibly rare yet the first thing I see when we get here is one jumping around in the pond." She beamed excitedly.

Link felt his heart melt as her face lit up with wonder and excitement, highlighted beautifully by a ray of sunlight that was shining down upon them both.

"This place is beautiful..." She gasped.

It wasn't often that she got to go as far as Zora's river, her father had never allowed her to explore through fear of her finding herself in danger. She had only ever been twice, and this was her second.

"Yeah, it is... But it can't hold a candle to your beauty."

Hearing his compliment, her attention turned from the pond to him. She smiled politely as her cheeks turned a rose shade of pink.

"This is a wonderful surprise Link, you really shouldn't have gone to the trouble."

"Oh this? No, no, this isn't the surprise."

"You mean there's more?"

"We're just getting started." He confirmed.

Taking her hand, Link led her across the small and tranquil land, to the house that was located at the far end. He stopped, just inches from the door and gave it a gentle tap with his knuckles.

In a few short seconds, the door opened and Hena, the owner of the fishing hole, stood before them.

"Hello Master Link, I see you have returned... And with your lady friend too? Hehe, I'll admit, she's prettier than the last one you introduced me to."

"The last one?" Zelda questioned.

"Hun, don't take it to heart, I'm just playing with him. There was no last one... Aha! His face was comical."

"Alright, alright. You got me there. Annnywaaays, I came to ask you something."

"Ohhh... I see where this is headed. The canoe boats are ten rupees each."

"I am aware. I was actually wondering if you could bring out the double canoe, and join myself and the Princess for a total of fifty rupees."

"Sure thing Master Link, but may I ask why you would want me there?"

"Trust me, you're not gonna want to miss this..." He stated with a gleam in his eye and a smirk on his face.

"Very well then. Let's get these boats out."

After their conversation Hena ushered the pair inside and helped them to get ready before finally taking the boats out onto the lake. The first half an hour was spent with Link and Hena taking it in turns to cast rods, pulling in some regular carps as they did before releasing them back into the water, keeping a close eye to ensure that Zelda was learning a thing or two from them.

"Hey... I have an idea! We should get closer to the lilypads." Link suggested.

"Okay, if you say so." Hena said and began moving her boat towards the little green surfaces floating in the water.

Link quickly moved his and Zelda's boat towards them too before stopping in the perfect spot.

"Are you going to cast your rod?" Hena asked curiously.

"On the contrary... I think I'm gonna let my Princess take this one."

"What? Why? Why couldn't I cast over where we were? There's no fish here." Zelda pouted.

"Be patient. You're going for the big one. Not those common ones."

Before she had the chance to react, Link had already gotten the frog lure ready and handed her the fishing rod.

"Now as soon as you feel a tug, you start to pull okay."

Zelda nodded before turning her full attention to the lake and waiting for the right moment before casting the rod. Whilst she is focused, he hands Hena a note.

Opening it out, Hena gives him an understanding nod, readying her camera to capture Zelda's first time fishing in a picture.

A few minutes passed by and nothing was happening, then suddenly the line began to tug, and upon reflex Zelda started to reel it in.

"Damn this thing is strong!" She calls as she struggles to keep her grip on the rod.

"Hey hey... I believe in you Zelda, you've got this. Just keep pulling, when it is close enough, pull harder." Link encouraged.

Taking in his words, although she remained unsure, she decided that if anyone knew what they were doing, it was Link, and as she felt the fish come closer, she pulled and pulled with every ounce of strength she had.

"Hena, get ready!" Link half yelled.

After seemingly endless amounts of pulling in an unfair game of tug and war with the fish, it finally breaks through the surface of the water and hangs from the rod. Quickly, she pulls it in and unhooks it, a big smile spreading across her face as she laid hands on it, realising that it was a Hylian Loach. Hena seized the opportunity and snapped the photo before the Princess could move again then put the pictograph down to get a good look at the fish.

"Oh my Hylia! Link look! Are you seeing this?" Zelda exclaimed overjoyed, holding the Loach up for him to see better.

"Awe well done Princess. Your first catch and it's a huge one! I knew you could do it." He cheered.

The catching didn't stop there. A few more hours were spent with Link and Hena watching and cheering as Zelda caught a few more various fish. Though the hours flew by and it was soon time for Link to take Zelda back to the castle so that her father would see that his daughter had come back at a decent hour.

Bidding Hena a heartfelt goodbye, she kindly handed Link a copy of the picture that she had taken earlier and kept one for herself.

Before long, the two arrived back at the castle - Much to Zelda's dismay. Stopping outside the doors, she turned to Link, the smile from earlier still written on her face.

"Thank you for this. It was an incredible experience that I will never forget. It was more fun than I ever thought I could have."

"Anytime Zelda."

Extremely happy with how her day had gone, she gives him a tight hug, which he returns, and then turned around and headed inside - Link watching as she went, his heart full of love and joy.

Meanwhile, back at the fishing hole, Hena was just closing up for the night when she turned to the pictures that were laid on the front desk, admiring the loach and the Princess stood holding it, with her mouth open wide in a smile.

*****************************************************************
"Oh my Hylia!... I remember this. The first real day that she and I ever spent together."

"Yes, she really loved that day. Just as she has loved every day with you since."

"I must keep fighting for her!" He stated, more confident and determined than he had ever been before.

"Now you have to choose. Come with me, or go back to your body."

"I don't even need to think about this one. Thank you for showing me these Hylia, I wish to go back to my body."

As soon as he said the words, the white light from earlier returned and grew bigger and bigger until it completely surrounded him.

Chapter Text

"Don't worry girl, you shall be reunited with your master very soon." Midna soothed as she led Epona towards Kakariko Village.

Being on her own, it had been a silent journey to collect Epona from outside Faron Woods, and even now all she could do was speak soft and soothing words to the horse. They weren't awfully far from the Village and as they neared the gates, Midna began to slow down a little with worrisome thoughts about Link's comatose state filling her head.

She feared that he might never wake and then both the Kingdom of Light and Twilight would be doomed by Zant forever and the Princess of Hyrule... She dreaded to think what would become of Zelda and the baby that she carried. But she knew that she couldn't let those thoughts take over her. Right now, the fate of everyone was in her hands, and right now she needed to remain focused on finding a way to bring Link back to the waking world.

"Oh Zelda... If only you were here with me now, you would not only know what to do, but I know for certain that Link would wake up for you..." She whispered into the silence of the open air.

With a defeated sigh, she continued through the entrance, hanging her head in shame.

"I know you are taking great care of my dear Link..." A soft voice came from behind her.

Lifting her head and turning around, she was confused and surprised to see Zelda... Or rather, a spirit version of the Princess, standing before her. Without hesitation, she bowed as best she could in her imp form.

"Your highness... I really don't know what more I can do... I've tried so hard to wake him and nothing seems to be working. He needs to wake or... Or more bad things are going to happen." Midna half cried.

Zelda gave a sympathetic smile to the Twilight Princess, her face warm and glowing. She stood just a few inches away from Midna and when she began to speak, her face softened.

"Don't be so hard on yourself... The service you have done for Hyrule and for Link is outstanding and I will forever be grateful for it. Thank you for guiding him along the journey, he needs you in this."

"Not as much as he needs you... I'm lost on what to do, and I need your help."

"Well as you can see, in this form there isn't very much that I can do. However, there are a few words that you should pass on to him. Perhaps that would help."

"Pass on words? You really think words are going to bring him out of it? I highly doubt that."

"Trust me on this... When you get back to him, get close to his ears and whisper these exact words to him..."

As if to demonstrate, Zelda moved in closer to Midna, put her mouth next to her ear and whispered four words to her.

"Those are nice words and all... But are you sure about this?" Midna asked, doubtful of this advice.

"Almost one hundred percent." Zelda confirmed.

"Well... Okay then... I'll take your word for it. I just hope that you are right."

"I have to go now... Zant is coming to check up on my body. If he sees that it is doll-like due to me being here then who knows what he will do... I am counting on you, Midna!"

Before she could even begin to question the Princess about Zant, she was gone, leaving only the two of them there to continue the path back to Link.

"What do you think, girl? Is Zelda right about this?" Midna asked as they slowly headed up the path back to where Impaz lived.

As though she understood what she was being asked, Epona whinnied and nodded her head as if she were trying to give an answer.

"Yeah, I guess you're right. She is the future Queen of Hyrule after all, so I really shouldn't doubt her."

In just a few short seconds, they were outside the house. Midna made sure to hook Epona's reins over the little holding pole before heading inside. The sight that confronted her was not so pleasant.

Link, still in the same state that he had been in since the woods, was laid out on one of the beds now, with Impaz cleaning the wounds on his chest. She had to turn away as she saw the bloodstained cloth that was being used to dab one of the wounds that was oozing thick crimson.

The woman stopped what she was doing as she heard the creak of the floorboards when Midna entered. Putting the cloth down, she turned the Twilight Princess.

"Ah, you're back. Unfortunately there has been no progress in his state; however I could not wait any longer to treat his wounds. Now that you are here, we should really try to wake him." Impaz greeted.

Midna simply nodded to show her understanding and then moved over to where Link was laid, deep in slumber.

"This is a long shot... But it is worth a try."

Leaning in closely just as Zelda had done with her, she made sure her voice was steady before beginning to recite the words that she had been given.

"Remember Link... You have the courage." She whispered the exact words that Zelda had told her, and then she decided to add in her own.

"You can win this fight. I know you can. I believe in you, Zelda believes in you.... Heck, even Epona believes in you. All you have to do is have faith in yourself."

Stepping back, she and Impaz waited. Nothing appeared to be happening at first, but just as Midna was about to give up, Link woke abruptly with a loud gasp as he bolted upright into a sitting position.

"It worked!" Midna cried in relief.

"I saw her... I spoke to her." Link muttered. "She needs me!"

With that last statement, he attempted to lift himself off of the bed to stand, but winced at the pain that his wounds caused him. Impaz immediately forced him back down to sit on the bed.

"No! You are not yet well enough." Impaz warned him.

"But she needs me, and I know what I have to do now." Link protested.

"If you go out there with fresh wounds, you will leave yourself vulnerable to attack. Give it a day; only a day."

"We already lost too many days..." He began but quickly stopped complaining when Midna shot him a look.

He sighed in defeat as he let the women win this one and forced him to stay put whilst they bathed, cleaned and even stitched his wounds. As soon as that was over with, Impaz was already cooking him up an omelet and some hearty truffles for dessert. The strong smell of eggs and truffles was enough to make him admit that he was, in fact, hungry. Almost as quickly as it had been placed in front of him, the plate was empty.

"Can I go now?" He whined.

With his belly full and his wounds having been patched up, he could not think of anything more that he needed to do to prepare. He did not need any sleep, that was for sure.

"Someone is an eager beaver." Midna joked to Impaz.

"Not quite yet. You agreed to twenty-four hours. Besides, your wounds are not healed, simply patched up. They can still rip open with too much movement." Impaz reminded him.

"Okay. Twenty-four hours it is." He surrendered.

"While you wait, it might be worth preparing Epona. You promised Ilia that you would take good care of her."

For a brief second, the mention of Ilia caused a pang of grief to strike his heart, but he quickly brushed it aside and slowly stood up before heading outside to where his loyal horse was waiting patiently.

"Hey girl... You miss me?" He spoke softly as he approached her, patting her on her muzzle.

He watched as her eyes blinked once as if to tell him that she had and it made him smile. Although Ilia was gone, Epona brought him great comfort. Even though he could not do anything for his best friend, he would do everything in his power to look after the horse that she was so fond of.

Picking up the bucket that was placed on the first step to the porch, he fished out a brush then began to gently pull it through Epona's mane. As soon as the brush made contact with her, she lowered her head to make it easier for him to reach without reopening his wounds.

It was early evening and the sun was just beginning to set, but Link couldn't bring himself to leave her side. Instead he stayed put, brushing her mane and tail, cleaning her shoes and feeding her apples from the nearby tree.

For the first time in a long time, he felt content.

Chapter Text

Link stayed outside with Epona up until every inch of the blue sky was replaced by a thick black and then he headed back inside to the others. Back in the house, it turned out that Impaz had provided sleeping arrangements for both himself and Midna. It was getting late, his body still ached and they had a long day ahead of them tomorrow. He would need as much rest as possible for his wounds to heal. Heading upstairs, he saw that the room in which Impaz slept was already closed off, indicating to him that she was already fast asleep. He turned in the opposite direction and headed into the room with the twin beds that the kind woman had made up for them both.

"Have fun on your date with Epona?" Midna joked sarcastically.

"Ha... Ha... Very funny." Link retorted, unphased.

Before getting into bed, he removed his hat, boots and his belt. After setting them down on the dresser besides the bed, he was about to take off his green tunic when he remembered that he was not alone in the room. Dropping his hands back down by his side, he turned around to see if Midna was looking or not.

"Ahem?!" Link cleared his throat, catching Midna's attention.

"What? If I see something I haven't seen before, I'll throw a rupee at it." She teased.

"Make it a blue rupee, or turn around."

With a roll of her eyes, Midna made a one-eighty turn so that she was facing the wall. As soon as Link was sure that she was not looking at all, he lifted his tunic up over his head, leaving his battle scar covered chest bare. Quickly and quietly, he slipped on a white night top in its place.

"Okay. You can turn around now." He informed her.

"Finally... What was that about? Afraid I might have seen something I shouldn't?" She teased.

"Not at all... Now, we should probably get some sleep so that we can head out bright and early tomorrow."

"Wait! Before we do... I just want to know... When you were comatose, did you...see anything?"

"Whatever do you mean?" Link asked, clearly confused.

"I mean...like Zelda."

Thinking it through for a moment, Link exhaled a breath he'd been holding before beginning to explain the things he'd experienced whilst living as a spirit, trapped in his own mind. He admitted everything, even though it left him feeling exposed. From speaking with Zelda, travelling through his memories and his encounter with the Goddess Hylia, he left no detail out of his explanation.

By the time he had finished, any light coming into the room from the outdoors had faded into darkness. Midna was stunned into silence, and if it weren't for her glowing orange eyes, he might have thought that she had fallen asleep.

"That sounds scary... And in a way, epic." She summed up.

Link, having taken the time during the silence to lie down in bed, yawned and rolled over onto his side.

"Goodnight Midna."

"Goodnight Link."

******

Link was awake as soon as the sun began to rise, and had already begun preparing for their travels before Midna or Impaz had risen from their slumber. By the time that they had woken up, he had already replaced Epona's horse shoes, saddled her up and given her five apples for breakfast. It was only once he headed back inside that he saw that Impaz had already prepared a meal for them all to start their day.

"Sneaking out at the crack of dawn to see Epona, eh? Something you need to tell us?" Midna teased.

"Really? You're a great companion Midna, but you seriously need to stop with the jokes." Link retorted.

Before she had a chance to defend her jokes, he'd already sat down and filled his mouth with some of the food that Impaz had made. Within minutes he had cleared the plate.

"Great! I have slept, eaten, fixed up Epona... Can I go now?" He asked.

"Not so fast! First, I need to check on your wounds. Then, if they are looking good enough, you can be on your way." Impaz informed.

This earned a groan of annoyance from Link as he was desperate to get going. Although despite this, he knew that it was for the best. He would fail epically if an enemy hit him in his weak spot. He had too much to lose and needed to be at his strongest in order to succeed. Without another word of protest, he lifted his green tunic to reveal his wounded chest. At first glance it appeared that they were grizzly since the plasters and bandages were already dyed red with blood, but as Impaz removed all coverage it appeared that they had mostly healed.

Tossing the used first aid items into the trash, the woman replaced the plasters and bandages with fresh ones and then confirmed that both Link and Midna could be on their way. Heading outside to where all of the Kakariko villagers had lined up to say goodbye, Link mounted Epona and they began their journey bidding each villager that they passed farewell.

As they exited Kakariko, Link used the reins to make Epona speed up; Midna was also able to keep up this time. It would not take them long to reach Faron Woods again, and unlike the last time, Link was prepared for just about anything.

Once outside the entrance, he repeated the same actions of leaving Epona in the safest area possible before he, along with Midna, took their first steps back into the forest. The vivid hallucinations hit Link almost instantaneously, but rather than succumbing to them, he pushed through the once overwhelming visions that were bombarding him and was able to make his way deeper than before.

"Link... How are you holding up?" Midna asked, ready to come to Link's aid if need be.

"I'm okay. Images are flashing through my mind... But I am able to see through them." He informed her, not bothering to stop walking.

"Oh, good."

Unsheathing his sword, Link sensed the enemy's arrival before they had even appeared. Without hesitation, he lunged forward just as one of the Shadow Beasts approached and thrust his sword straight through its heart - if it even had one.

He spun around just in time as another crept up behind him and bashed it away with his shield, blocking its attack. Whilst Link kept one distracted, Midna used her Twili powers to grab hold of it and held in place long enough for him to stab his sword straight through it, just as he had the last one.

With two defeated, there was only one more to go. Link and Midna glanced at one another, more determined than ever, and a smirk escaped onto his face.

Dodging the creature's first attempt at an attack by rolling underneath it and springing back to his feet. With the creature distracted by Midna, it did not notice Link behind it, giving him the advantage. Raising his sword, he leapt into the air, hurling himself at the creature and performing a downward slash attack, killing it instantly.

"Well that was easy." He quipped.

"Right. Come on, let's keep going." Midna instructed.

She didn't need to say it twice. He was already walking on ahead just as the words left her lips. Within seconds, they were stood outside the Sacred Grove located in the Temple of Time.

"This is it?" Midna asked, surprised.

"Yep."

"Looks kind of... Unsafe. Why would this be the hiding place?" She questioned.

"It's not as dangerous as it looks. The sword is always safe in there. Trust me." Link informed her.

"Okay, then let's go get it." She concluded.

Heading down the marble staircase of the Temple of Time, the sword soon became visible as they neared the bottom step. A ray of sunlight shone down upon the sword, highlighting the solid silver blade and the golden Triforce that was embedded on the blue handle.

"Link... Are you sure about this?" Midna asked, uncertainly.

"Yes." Link answered; no uncertainty present in his voice.

"I mean, it's been a while... What if you can't take it now?" She clarified.

"Trust me, Midna... Remember."

"Okay... Well then, what are you waiting for? Go get it!" She encouraged.

He nodded, turning his attention back to the sword and descending the final step before gracefully walking up to where the Master Sword was set in the stone. Slowly, he reached out with both hands, placing them on the handle that he had grown familiar with, and put all his strength into one pull.

Without any difficulty, the sword slid out of the pedestal and once it was in his hands, Link raised it skyward, admiring the gleam that the sun had cast upon its silver.

"Thank Hylia you have your sword back! Now we finally stand a chance at beating that cretin Zant. Come on, Link... We should go."

"Hold up..." Link called her back just as she began to walk away.

"What?" Midna asked as she turned around.

"Place your hand on the sword."

Surprised, Midna raised an eyebrow at his request. "Why? Won't that thing kill me if I even tried to touch it?" She asked skeptically.

"Trust me." Link repeated his earlier words.

Though apprehensive at first, Midna decided to concede and trust her friend. "Alright."

Hesitantly, Midna reached out with her hand and had it hover above the blade, still unsure. She looked at Link, who nodded in reassurance and then turned her attention back to the blade. Closing her eyes, she placed her hand upon it and flinched, expecting to be stung. Instead, a pure white light, bright enough to blind them enveloped her Imp form and within a matter of seconds, it had faded.

Opening his eyes, Link's smile turned into more of a grin as he took in the sight of his loyal companion.

"Midna..." He gasped. "Welcome back."

"Huh?" Confused, the Twilight Princess looked down at herself and saw that she was no longer an imp, but rather her true form. She could not control the smile that crept onto her face as she began to feel much better, knowing that she was back to her usual self. Overcome with joy and relief, she ran up to her friend and embraced him in a grateful hug.

"Thank you so much, Link. You truly have no idea how much this means to me." She beamed.

"You're welcome." He said, returning the hug.

Chapter Text

Having made their way back out of Faron Woods, with Midna now back in her true form, Link mounted Epona and they set off for Ordon village.

Since she was no longer an imp, she couldn't hide in Link's shadow and so he had suggested that they go speak to the goat farmer and see if he could loan them a horse for her to ride on their travels.

As they neared the worn down old wooden bridge, a thought crossed his mind as he began to think about how they were going to travel to the Twilight Realm and launch a sneak attack on Zant. He stopped right at the end of the bridge and turned to his loyal companion.

"What is it?" Midna asked, concerned by their sudden stop.

"No... No, it's nothing. I was just thinking... After stopping Zant the first time, you destroyed the mirror. How are we going to get back into the Twili Realm?" He questioned.

Midna pondered Link's question for a moment, remembering how she had destroyed the mirror after the Twilight invasion of Hyrule had been stopped. Afterwards, she never truly discovered what had happened to the shards. The only thing that she knew about them now was that they had been scattered. Each of the four pieces hidden in a different location.

"I'm not exactly sure on the locations of the shards, but I do know that after I shattered the mirror the shards were scattered." She informed him.

Link thought hard about the last time they'd had to hunt down the mirror shards and the locations they'd been in. The last time he'd seen Midna, before she had gone back to the Twilight Realm, he had stuck around for a few minutes more before finally being able to accept how things had ended and leaving. Before that though, he had stood witness to the mirror shards levitating and then vanishing into thin air after appearing to have imploded.

"So I guess this means that we have to figure out the locations, then put the mirror back together so that we can enter the Realm and take down Zant." He stated confidently.

"Yeah, but where do we even begin looking?" Midna questioned, her mind running over several possibilities.

Unable to answer her question, Link continued moving across the bridge and towards Ordon Village. Once they'd spoken to the farmer, they would need to think carefully about where their next stop would be.

The pair remained silent as they passed by Link's old house and went through the little walk way that led back to the bigger part of the village. Link dismounted Epona, leaving her at the entrance before continuing on foot. After crossing the little foot bridge, he realised that there was something different about Ordon compared to the last time they'd visited. Usually the place was full of life; children running around together, people fishing and socialising with one another. But today there was no sign of anyone outside.

"Wow... It seems that losing Ilia really has taken its toll on the people here." Midna commented, looking from side to side as they passed the mayor's house.

Making their way up to the little farm that was just on the outskirts of the village, Link felt huge relief as he saw that the goats were out as per usual and the farmer was keeping a close watch. At least one person seemed to be holding up.

The farmer, having already spotted Link and Midna making their way over, gave them a wave and waited for them to approach him.

"Master Link, and uh... I don't believe that we have met before?" He questioned, taking in the sight of Midna standing next to Link, towering over him ever so slightly.

"It's good to see you too, and this is Midna. She's a friend of mine." Link introduced the two.

"Ha, trust our boy to make yet another female friend." He joked.

"You just had to crack that one, didn't you?" Link retorted with a chuckle.

"Sorry bud, I couldn't resist. Anyways, what can I do for you?" The farmer questioned.

Glancing at Midna who gave him an encouraging nod, Link turned his attention back to the farmer and politely asked him if he had any available horses. After confirming that he did, the farmer led them into the back of the barn where there was a choice of three horses; A midnight black stallion, a grey and white mare, and a brown filly that was almost identical to Epona with the exception of a black mane instead of white.

"These are the only three that I currently board, go ahead and take your pick." The farmer informed them.

Looking over her options for a moment, Midna felt herself being drawn towards the black stallion. Cautiously reaching out with her hand, the majestic horse startled her as it snorted and blew out warm air before lowering its head to allow her access to pet it. She slowly placed her hand on the top of its head and stroked its mane gently with her thumb.

"Awe, he likes you." Link gushed, feeling his heart warm at the sight.

"He- He does?" Midna questioned in surprise as she let the reality hit her.

Most of the animals in Hyrule became spooked by her presence due to how different she was to a Hylian, Zora or Goron. Likewise, she'd never felt a connection to any animal in her entire life. But this horse... This black beauty, she felt a strong bond to already.

"This the one?" The farmer asked, admiring how trusting the stallion was of her.

"Yeah, he is." Midna confirmed.

"Balthazar! What a great choice. Unfortunately due to his appearance, not many folk choose to take him out." The farmer explained, excited that the horse had been chosen.

"Well, I think he's just wonderful!" She stated as her face lit up with joy.

As he lead the stallion out of the stable, the farmer gave Midna a friendly smile as he continued to prepare Balthazar; combing his mane and saddling him up. Once the horse was ready, he handed the reins over to her and muttered a few tips on how to control him and take care of him, before watching the two heroes head back towards the village.

As they reached the exit, Link quickly mounted Epona and then led the way back out towards his old home and eventually back to the field. Having no idea where the four shards would be was going to set them back. Hyrule was  fairly large and they didn't have the time to search the entire Kingdom.

"Hmm... Where do we even start?" Midna questioned.

Link looked around, his mind wandering for ideas on where the shards could be. The people of Castle Town would be no help since they'd all had their memories wiped, so that was one idea off the list. Their only options were the people of Kakariko, lake Hylia, speaking with the King or Royal Guard and if all else failed then the only places were Gerudo Desert and Snow Peak Mountain. Unfortunately, they couldn't possibly visit all of those regions in one day so they would have to choose carefully.

"Well, neither the King nor the people of Kakariko had anything to say about any of that... I think we should only search in unlikely places." Link answered.

"Alright, but you know this place better than I do, so you should take the lead on this one." She told him.

Agreeing on the matter, Link began leading the way, thinking hard before he decided on the first definitive location; Hyrule Field. Racing past all the bulblins that attempted to charged at them, both he and Midna made it to the Castle Town gates in no time. Although the people were still clueless about the recent attack, Link hoped that they at least had memories of before that would help to clue them in on the location of the first shard.

Stopping near the fountain, he thought hard for a moment about the friends he'd made in Castle Town and which, out of them all, were known to have a good memory. He had already planned a few stops whilst travelling and knew for sure that it would be a good idea to visit Agatha, Telma and Dr Borville.

"What are you doing? We don't have time for breaks!" Midna scolded.

"I know, this isn't a break. I'm trying to work out who is closest to us right now." He explained.

"Oh." She mouthed, thinking about it herself now.

Before either of them could make a suggestion, a high pitched and excited voice squealed Link's name from behind. Turning around, he stretched out his arms as Agatha came barrelling into him, knocking them both to the ground. Shaking off the shock, he blinked twice as he tried to see her clearly through all the butterflies that she had fluttering around her.

"Excuse me, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you." She rambled.

Link chuckled at her crazy entrance. "Haha, that's quite alright." He said, getting to his feet and brushing himself off before helping her up as well. "So, to what do I owe the honour?" He asked.

Agatha giggled playfully before speaking. "Well, I came to tell you that while travelling out in Hyrule field last night, I saw something rather interesting." She began.

Not wanting to be rude, but knowing that they did not have the time to waste, Link gave the girl a friendly smile. "Interesting huh? What was it this time? A butterfly?" He questioned.

"Ha! No silly! This wasn't an insect. I saw a bulblin." She announced.

While Link kept his expression neutral so as not to offend the bug queen, Midna rolled her eyes and before he had the chance to respond, she was already talking.

"A bulblin? That's it! Seriously? That's your big news. Well, I have a news flash for you, that isn't anything new! There are thousands of those things out there every single day, thanks for wasting our time!" Midna snapped.

Link's eyes widened as he took in what his companion had just said, rather rudely, to his friend. He glared at Midna and turned his attention to Agatha, who was looking at him with a sad expression. The last thing he needed was to be held up by pathetic melodrama.

"Uh- She didn't mean that. I'm sorry Agatha, sometimes my companion here can forget to bring her manners with her. I hope that you can see past that because she is actually, believe it or not, a nice person. So, a bulblin huh? That sounds unfortunate." He stepped in before the queen could shed a tear.

"Oh no, Master Link, it didn't come near us. Though... It was carrying something rather interesting." She informed them.

"Hmm..." Link thought for a second. The only thing he'd seen those hideous creatures carry in the past were their weapons, so for them to be carrying another object seemed strange. "Could you please tell us what this object looked like?" He asked.

"Well... I can tell you, but I don't want to tell her." Agatha decided.

"Alright, that's a deal. Midna, please take your horse and wait near the gates, I'll be with you shortly." Link instructed.

Surprisingly without a fuss, Midna listened to him and took the black stallion away, heading towards the gates. Now alone with Link, Agatha smiled.

"I can't be certain of what this thing was, but I can tell you that it was very reflective. It looked like a broken shard of glass or something." She told him.

Her description of the object caught his full attention. The way she had described what the bublin was carrying made him almost one hundred percent certain that it was the first shard of the mirror.

"Right, and where abouts in Hyrule field was this Bulblin?" He questioned.

"Ah, it was... around the west side, more nearer the castle walls." She informed him.

Having gotten the information he needed, he thanked Agatha for her time and went on his way, reuniting with Midna at the front gates. After filling her in on the details, they decided to head over to Hyrule field; hoping to find the bulblin in question.

**********

Chapter Text

Watching the bulblin like a hawk, after having located it amid a group of three, Link dismounted Epona and crouched down behind one of the larger rocks in the vicinity. Deciding that it would be better to take out the other two before attempting to retrieve the mirror shard, he reached behind his back and pulled out crossbow, along with three arrows; Midna, having guessed what he was up to, dismounted her own horse before falling back into Link's shadow, just as she had done before she'd been restored to her true form.

"You shoot, and I'll retrieve the piece before that thing explodes into nothing." She whispered into his ear.

Link said nothing but simply nodded in understanding to ensure that he did not break his concentration. Drawing back the string, aiming an arrow at the smallest of the group, he closed his left eye to get a better focus on the target. Once he was certain the arrow would hit, he released it and watched as it flew through the air before piercing the bulblin in the head, causing it to shriek as it burst into ashes. Moving the bow in the direction of the second bulblin, he readied the arrow and repeated the same method he'd used to strike the first. Within half a second of releasing the arrow, it had struck the bulblin through the chest and he watched as it too, burst into ashes.

Moving on to the third bulblin, Link lowered the bow when he saw that the demise of the other two had alerted the monster. He ducked even lower as it came towards the rock, as though trying to investigate where the arrows had come from. As Link watched it intently, Midna slipped out of his shadow and picked up a few nearby stone, launching one at the bulblin to distract it and then throwing another at the wall that circled the perimeter of Castle Town. Just as she'd hoped, the bulblin turned its attention to where the stone had hit the wall, and ran towards it to investigate. Returning to Link's shadow, she continued to allow him to take over from there. Now that the bulblin was distracted, Link raised the bow again and took the opportunity to shoot the arrow. He watched in both excitement and anticipation as the arrow flew through the air and landed in the bulblin's throat. It let out the same ear piercing shriek that the others had, and Midna moved quickly to retrieve the first mirror shard. As the ashes began to shower the grass, she grabbed the shard and raced back to Link, who had just put away his bow.

"You got it?" He questioned anxiously.

"I got it." She confirmed.

"Wha-ha! I could hug you right now!" He exclaimed in excitement.

"Eh- I'd rather you didn't. I'm not a hugger." She quipped.

"Of course not. It was just an expression." He explained, mounting Epona and patting her on the side of her neck.

Midna mounted her own horse, and watched Link as he caressed Epona with gentle hands. She saw the excitement from a moment ago had disappeared and been replaced with sadness, evident in his eyes. She bit her tongue, wondering if she should speak or not, then decided to try and start a conversation.

"You miss her, don't you?" She questioned, feeling dumb for having nothing better to say.

"Huh?" He muttered.

"Zelda..." She clarified.

"Oh. Yeah... But I know all will be okay. I won't rest again until she is safely by my side." He vowed. "It's just..." He began, but trailed off with a sigh. "Don't worry about it, we've got more pressing matters to deal with." He shrugged.

"You won't be able to think straight if your mind is troubled though." She pointed out. "Talk to me." She pleaded.

"It's just... I can't believe I failed my duty that night, and in doing so failed her... And our unborn baby." He confided. "I didn't even know and found out through her diary; which I shouldn't have read... I feel as though I let her down." He admitted solemnly.

Midna thought for a second, unsure of what to say that would comfort him. She didn't know the Princess very well and had really only met the girl twice during her previous travels with Link. It wasn't something that she was experienced in either. She'd never been so close to someone as to know what it was like to feel like she'd let them down. It was one of the few perks of being a Twili.

"You haven't." She told him simply. "I don't know the Princess very well, but from what you have told me, she is a kind and compassionate soul. If what you speak of her is the truth, then I highly doubt that she is disappointed in you. She had her reasons for not telling you right away, but I'm sure that it has nothing to do with how she feels about you." She reassured him. "For what it's worth, I just know you're going to make a great husband... And father." She added.

Link let out another sigh. He wanted to believe what Midna was saying, but without Zelda around to confirm it, the words just couldn't reach his heart. Not wanting to seem rude, he gave her a weak smile before striding ahead with Epona, glancing briefly over his shoulder to ensure she was following.

"So... Where do we go from here?" Midna asked, wondering about the second shard of the mirror as she quickly caught up with Link.

"Your guess is as good as mine." He replied, guiding them back towards the entrance to Castle Town.

"Link!... Enough with the doomsday voice! Where did this doubt even come from because you were just fine a moment ago?!" Midna questioned, unhappy with his sudden change of mood.

"You don't get it!" He yelled. "And why would you? You've been on your own for Hylia knows how long! How could you possibly know how it feels? You don't, so don't try to tell me how I should feel or that I was just fine a moment ago!" He snapped.

"I..." She began, but trailed off as her voice became uneven.

"Forget it! I'm going back to Ordon go gather a few things before we set out to find the next shard." He stated, yanking Epona's reins so that she broke into a gallop.

With a heavy sigh, Midna gave her own horse a little kick to get him moving, slower than Epona to keep her distance to prevent provoking Link further.

Ordon Village; Link's House

Slowing Epona into a walk, he quickly halted her besides the ladder that led up to the front door of his old home. Midna still hadn't arrived yet, but he could tell that she was not far behind as he could hear the faint sound of horse hooves in the near distance. Without waiting, he dismounted Epona, offering her an apple for the journey that she took from his hand gratefully, and patted her head before beginning to climb the old wooden ladder. Once up top, he tried the door, which opened easily with a click of the catch.

He stood in the doorway, taking a moment to admire how well the old house was holding up and breathing in the familiar smell of farming tools, earth and bread. Coming back here, he felt as though he'd entered a time tunnel and gone back in time. Everything had been so much simpler back when he was just an ordinary farm boy, but he wouldn't give up the life he had now for it, no matter what struggles he faced. The only thing he wished for was to have Zelda back safely.

As he heard the sound of Midna calling his name, he ventured further into the house, not ready to talk to her yet unless necessary. He hurried down into the second ladder inside the house, this one leading into the basement where he kept a chest of old stock he'd gathered during his travels at the time of the Twilight invasion. He knelt down on the wooden floor and reached out to open it when a shuffling noise caught his attention.

"Great. I guess this place has an infestation of mice now." He muttered to himself.

He turned his attention back to the chest and once again reached out to open it when the shuffling sound got louder and closer. Withdrawing his hand, he turned around and rose to his feet.

"Midna, stop playing games with me!" He demanded.

"I'm not Midna." A familiar voice spoke.

Link turned his attention in the direction where the voice had came from and he almost couldn't believe his eyes when he saw who'd stepped out of the shadows of the room.

"You?... Buh- Wha- Wait, how did you even get down here?" He questioned.

"I've been waiting for you to return here Linky boy. I have a letter to deliver." The postman informed him.

"Letter? For me? How come it didn't arrive at the castle instead?" He questioned.

"Well, you're not at the castle and this is a rather urgent matter." The postman answered.

"Urgent?... I'm so confused right now. I told absolutely no one, except Midna, that I was coming here, how did you know that I would be here?" He asked, growing alarmed that Zant's power may have become greater over Hyrule.

"I really can't recall how I know, anyhow, here's the letter." The postman stated, offering out the letter.

Although hesitant, Link took the letter and picked up a small hunting knife from one of the wooden crates in the corner, using it to break the wax seal. He placed the knife aside and opened up the envelope, sliding the letter out and unfolding it.

Link,

Long time, no see. It has been while. Yeta realises that you are used to hearing from husband, Yeto. Unfortunately, Yeta needs to inform Link that Yeto is sick. He need some famous pumpkin soup, but due to storm, Yeta cannot get out to find the ingredients needed, as well as a healing fairy. Yeta was wondering if Link could gather ingredients and fairy and bring to help Yeto. In return, Yeta has something that you might be looking for.

Regards,
         Yeta, of Snowpeak.

Lowering his hand, Link looked up from the letter wanting to ask how long the postman had been waiting there for him, but it seemed that he'd already slipped away silently while he was reading.

Without another thought on how long ago the letter had been written, Link drew in a breath and headed upstairs. He walked up to the little wooden desk that hadn't been used since he'd resided in the house, and pulled a quill from a vase before dabbing it in some freshly made up ink and listing down all the ingredients needed for the pumpkin soup. He was curious about what Yeta had meant when she'd mentioned being in possession of something that he was looking for. The first thought that came to mind was a mirror shard, but he brushed it off, deeming the idea laughable. Yeto and Yeta holding on to a mirror shard was as likely as Ganondorf making peace with himself and Zelda. Even still, if it was an item that could aid his travels and if the soup was the one thing that could save his old friend, then he would invest his time and effort into lending Yeta a helping hand.

Once he'd gathered the list, he placed the quill down on the table and folded up the piece of paper he'd written on, tucking it away into his pocket before heading outside to where Midna was waiting for him. Despite her expectant look, he didn't speak a word and instead mounted Epona and set off Faron Woods. Midna, growing annoyed with his ignorance, mounted her own horse and raced to catch him up. She would not let the subject drop this time until he told her what he was up to.

Chapter Text

Link slowed Epona to a walk so that he was able to check the list of ingredients that he'd written down. The first on the list was probably the easiest of them all to come by; a simple orange pumpkin. As long as held on to enough rupees, there would be no issue purchasing one from the market place in Castle Town. Before setting off in that direction though, he looked behind to face Midna, who was only now catching up to him.

His mind flashed back to what he'd said to her back in Hyrule field as she aligned her horse with Epona, and he mentally kicked himself. It wasn't just what he said, but the way that he'd said it that made him regret it. Midna had grown to be one of his best friends and hated the thought of treating anyone he cared about like dirt. With a sigh, the last of his stubbornness faded away.

"What are we doing here, Link?" Midna asked. "We don't have any time to waste." She added.

"I'll explain in a minute, but first of all... I owe you an apology, Midna." He stated.

Midna thought about this for a second. Her first instinct was to yell at him and give him a good piece of her mind for how much he had not only made her worry, but also how he had used such a disgusting tone with her. Though she knew that fighting with him more would only hinder their search for the second mirror shard, so instead she gave him a small smile, appreciative of the fact that he admitted to being wrong, and keeping in mind how much pressure he has been under in the past few days.

"Yes, you do owe me an apology, Link." She began. "I may not be human, but I am still a person and a person has feelings... You really hurt mine." She admitted.

"I know. I was such an idiot and I'm sorry. You're my best friend, but with everything that has happened in the past few days; losing Ilia, Zelda going missing, finding out that I'm going to be a father... I guess I just snapped. But I shouldn't have taken it out on you, I really am sorry." He apologized sincerely.

"It's okay, Link. I forgive you." She told him.

"Really? That easily?" He questioned.

"All I wanted was an apology and you delivered it. So yes, you knucklehead, I forgive you."

Chuckling at her choice of nicknames for him, he smiled at her before remembering that he had yet to tell her of what they needed to do next. "Aye, uh... Listen, I received a letter from my friend Yeta who lives up on Snowpeak mountain. It turns out that my other friend, Yeto, is sick. He needs the special pumpkin soup to get better, but unfortunately Yeta cannot get out to get them due to a terrible storm. We need to gather those ingredients and bring them to Yeta so that she can make the soup for Yeto." He explained.

"So, that's where we're headed now? To help Yeta and Yeto?" She questioned.

"Yes." Link confirmed, getting ready to make tracks again before he remembered to tell her one more thing. "Oh, and Yeta says that she has something that might be of use to us."

"Yeta?" Midna questioned in disbelief. "Hmm, I wonder what that something could be." She thought aloud.

"Beats me. But the sooner we gather these ingredients and get them to Snowpeak, the sooner we shall find out." He stated.

Midna watched as the determined glint that was in his eyes at the start of their quest returned even brighter than it had been before, and she knew that from this point forwards, there would be no hesitation from him.

Link rode on at a steady pace, following the path that would lead them to Castle Town, Midna was only slightly behind but still within reaching distance. During their travels, he thought about where it would be best to find the rest of the ingredients needed for the pumpkin soup; Reekfish heads and Ordon goats cheese. After purchasing an Ordon pumpkin from the market, he supposed the next thing they should be doing was heading off to Lake Hylia, to retrieve a bag of Reekfish. Once those two were out of the way, they would return to Ordon Village to collect some goat cheese and gather a few things that he'd left inside his house before they finally would start to head to Snowpeak mountain.

"Link... How exactly did you get hold of so many rupees?" Midna asked, curious to hear if he even had enough.

"Well, I may live in the castle now, but I haven't stopped doing those little jobs for everyone; delivering a few things here and there, herding goats, catching loose chickens... It's all good fun though really, as I do love a nice conversation with Town folk every now un'then." He told her, thinking back to the job he'd been doing the day before the night of the attack. Oddly enough, he'd been planting some pumpkin seeds in the farm up at the top of Ordon. It was one last run he'd decided to take on before the wedding.

"Oh. I mean, good. Those pumpkins aren't exactly cheap." She commented.

"No, they aren't. But I'm going to purchase three to ensure that Yeto gets enough soup to bring him back to full health." Link admitted.

"Three! Jeez, Link, that'll cost a bomb." Midna gaped.

"Rupees aren't worth much when it comes to a friend's health. I mean, I can always work some more jobs to earn more rupees... Can't do that with a friend though." He pointed out.

"Yeah, good point." She agreed, choosing not to dive further into the topic.

The rest of the journey to Castle Town was spent with less conversation and passed by in a blur. Before anything else important could be brought up, they had already reached the gates. Link dismounted Epona and tied up her reins before offering a hand out to Midna, who took it to make dismounting her own horse easier. Once both horses were tied up, the two friends headed through the gates and into the centre of the town.

"Now, remind me where the fruit and veg stall is..." Midna prompted.

"Heh- Come on, follow me." Link instructed and began heading down the right path, past bug Queen Agatha's house and stopping when they reached some little wooden stalls with beams, usually used to attach horses in order to travel, holding it up evenly as the wheels remained stationary.

Folding his arms, Link's eyes scanned over the entire fruit and veg laid out on the little wooden surface until he spotted a row of bright orange that stood out amongst all the reds and greens of the other food items. It was just their luck that the seller seemed to have recently stocked up on pumpkins, and he found himself straightening up as the stall owner came over to speak with him.

"Master Link, how canna help ye?" The raggedy old man greeted with a smile.

"I would like to purchase three Ordon pumpkins, please." Link requested politely.

"Right away." The old man granted, shaking out a medium sized sack and going over to pumpkins. As he lifted the first one up, he looked over his shoulder at Link. "Say, ah, someone sick up at the castle or somethin', not many people buy these anymore?"

"No!" Link began, but quickly remembered that everyone in the town had no recollection of events. "Yes." He answered, softening his tone. "Yeah, something like that." He finished.

"Ahhh." The old man mumbled in understanding. "I bet thee Princess is still up to her adventures, aye." He began, clearly trying to make conversation.

"Yup, you could say that." Link fibbed, giving a nervous chuckle as he hoped that he sounded believable.

Much to his relief, the old man did not fire any more questions his way and instead loaded three of the biggest pumpkins into the sack and took it over to them. Link reached into his wallet, waiting to hear the price.

"Alright then, normally that'd be sixty rupees. But, since you did save our kingdom from that awful Twilight corruption, I'm gonna say thirty." The old man stated.

With that, Link handed over the exact amount of rupees and took the sack of pumpkins from the man. The two friends then bid him farewell before heading back towards the town centre, where Link pulled out the list of ingredients and tore off the piece that had the words Ordon Pumpkin written on it.

"So, what's the next ingredient?" Midna questioned.

"Reekfish heads and Ordon goats cheese, that's what's left." He informed her.

"Okay, and what's our game plan?" She added.

"Hmm, on the way here I was thinking that it would be best to go to Lake Hylia for the Reekfish heads first, since they're going to be harder to come by. After that we can make our way back to Ordon and pick up the goat cheese before setting off for Snowpeak." He suggested.

"Yeah, I concur." Midna concluded.

"But first I think we should leave our horses somewhere safe. Lake Hylia isn't exactly an Equestria." Link pointed out.

"You make a good point. Perhaps we leave them in the care of the royal stables?" She put forward.

"It's the closest one after all, alright." Link agreed, heading over to talk to one of the nearby guards.

After sealing a handshake deal with the guard, Link, with Midna beside him, watched as the horses were escorted throughout Castle Town until they were out of sight. Turning around to the path ahead of them, Link thought for a moment about which route would be best to take. After a few seconds, he decided upon the Southern gate route since they had no idea how serious Yeto's condition actually was, and because the sooner he'd completed the task, they could get back to piecing the mirror together.

"South Gate?" Midna suggested, as though she'd read his mind.

"Yep. South Gate it is." Link confirmed.

Giving her an affirmative nod, he took off through the gates into Castle Town, with Midna hiding herself in his shadow once more, and headed down the Southern path. It irked him to see a of the town's folk going about their day as though nothing out of the ordinary had been happening. He was still trying to get used to everyone having no memory of events, but he doubted that he ever would. He also had to wonder if their memory loss would be permanent or if it would end once he'd taken down Zant; perhaps it would be better if they didn't remember in the end.

Following the Southern path, he stopped when he reached the exit to Castle Town. Just beyond that point, the Great Bridge of Hylia was waiting for them. But since it was quite the dive down, wearing his simple green tunic would not be ideal. Before anyone could see, he ducked into the nearest narrow alleyway, and hastily changed into the fish suit that he had acquired during the Twilight invasion. Throwing his tunic back into his bag of inventory, he exited back out on to the main pathway.

"Link..." Midna began.

"Yeah?" He questioned as she came out of his shadow.

"Be careful. The bridge up ahead isn't stable... A step in the wrong place could be fatal." She warned him.

"Alright. Got it. Thanks for the warning. I'll proceed with caution." He responded.

As Midna fell back into his shadow, he hurried through the exit and on towards the bridge. He stopped again, just one step shy of stepping foot onto the concrete surface, and examined the the cracks to estimate where the weakest points were located. Cautiously, he stepped forward so that he was standing on the bridge. He took extra care not to stomp or make any heavy movements that could cause the cracks beneath his feet to worsen. Swallowing hard, he exhaled a breath he'd been holding, and then took his second step, feeling splinters of gravel grind underneath his boots.

After the third step, he found it easier to move as his feet loosened up at the stable feeling, and he moved hastily across until his foot became entangled in an old vine protruding from the edges of bridge, sending him flying and crashing to the ground. His head jerked back, smashing against the concrete, causing him to yell. In his disoriented state, he failed to notice that the impact of his body weight being slammed into the ground had caused one of the cracks to worsen, and it was only when the surface began to split through the middle that he made a move to avoid falling. Before he could reach the other end of the bridge safely, it had already split in two beneath his feet, sending him down. Instinctively, he grabbed and desperately clung to the jagged edge that had formed. He used his strength to try and pull himself back up, but the sharp edge dug into his hand, slicing through the skin. Feeling the sting of the wound, his grip loosened and his hand slipped away, sending him plummeting down into the water below.

Falling through the air, all he could see was the crumbling of the bridge as his mind slipped into a dream-like state until a loud crunching sound brought him out of it. A severe pain shot through his back as he realised he'd landed against the bank. He reached out to grip onto a tree root, but was pulled away by the rushing water of the lake. With the current as strong as it was, he couldn't gather enough strength and as a result, his head kept ducking below the surface of the water. As a final attempt to save himself, he gasped for air and tried to swim, only to find that his legs wouldn't work. Once again, his head dipped below the surface and this time, he hadn't the strength to force himself back up. Unable to stop it, his mouth flew open and water rushed in, filling his lungs. That's when his eyes grew heavy, fluttering closed as his body began to sink lower and lower.

Back on top of the bank, having made it to the other side of the bridge after jumping out of Link's shadow as he fell, Midna looked down below, trying to locate her friend. As the minutes passed, she became increasingly worried for his safety. For a moment, she thought she saw him in the water, but he disappeared from sight before she could be certain.

"Link..." She shouted, hoping that he would somehow hear her above the rushing water.

She wasn't surprised that he didn't answer her. She was more concerned about finding a way down onto the bank in the hopes that she would be able to find him. Though what scared her the most was the echoing crack that had sounded at the same time he would have landed down there.

Chapter Text

Fading in. Fading out. Fading in. Fading out. TFading in. Fading out. Fading in. Fading out. That was the pattern that Link's consciousness followed after the incident at the bridge. After he'd fallen unconscious in the raging water, he'd laid in a state where he couldn't tell if he was awake or dreaming. He could hear everything going on around him and feel the water throwing his body around like a rag doll. What felt like hours to him, couldn't have been more than minutes before he felt arms slip underneath his own and grip him around the chest and shoulders. He felt his body being dragged through the water and then suddenly, he was no longer in the lake. He felt his rescuer, whoever they were, pull him up on the shore and lay him down flat. Then nothing.

* * *

"Come on, Link... You have to get up." Midna whispered, perched in a chair beside the makeshift bed that Link had been placed on.

She'd been frantically searching after finding her way onto the banks, when she caught sight of a zora. Desperate to locate him, she'd spoken with the zora and had asked for their help. Since they already seemed to know Link, they'd happily agreed and shortly after had rescued him from drowning. However, by the time they'd found him, he was already unconscious and nothing had changed since they'd moved him to Zora's domain. It had been almost a day, yet despite the Zora's elixir that had healed his shattered spine and other injuries, he still had not stirred. As it the daylight began to fade, Midna began to panic; it had been too long. What if he didn't wake soon?

Midna's focus shifted as she heard footsteps enter the room. Looking over her shoulder, she saw a zora; the same zora that had saved Link from the brutal forces of the lake water. Queen Rutela. She wanted to speak, to ask if Link was going to pull through this, but she suddenly found herself unable to get the words out.

"Greetings... Midna, was it?" Queen Rutela began.

"Yes, your highness." Midna found her voice politely.

"Ah, please... Rutela is fine." Queen Rutela corrected her. "Now, I should probably inform you of your friend's current state." She began.

"Oh, yes please. If you would." Midna replied, desperate to know the answer to her question.

"He is alive... If that is what you are concerned about. Unfortunately the impact of landing on the bank after falling from the height that he did, caused his spine to shatter..." Queen Rutela informed her.

"What? But... It can't... I mean, there's so much that still needs to be done, and there's no way I can do it alone. This is worse than I thought..." Midna began to ramble in a panic.

"No, you do not understand, Midna." Queen Rutela told her.

"What do you mean?" She asked, fearing for Link once more.

"Us Zora have incredible powers and we were able to fix Link up... His spine is now fully in tact, however he will need to drink some of our healing elixir when he wakes up, just to seal the deal." Rutela explained.

"And what happens if he doesn't?"

"I'm afraid that he might take a hit that could be fatal to him."

"Oh my..." Midna gasped.

"Please, do not panic. As long as he drinks the elixir, he should be fine."

"Should be..."

"I stand to correct myself; he will be fine."

"How long before he wakes up though?" Midna questioned, concerned that their time was running out.

"The magic we used on him was pretty strong, but he's already been out for almost a day, he should come around soon." Rutela explained.

"Oh." Midna mouthed.

"Now, I should leave you to it at the moment... Please, do call on me if you need anything though."

"Thank you."

With that being said, Rutela left the room and Midna turned her attention back to an unconscious Link. For a moment she just gazed at his face, taking in little details like the strand of blonde hair that fell into his eyes and the bruises that covered his face being the only visible evidence left from the fall. She couldn't help but wince at his injuries, knowing that he'd suffered more pain than they let on.

*_*_*_*_*

Link willed his eyes to open, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't move. It felt like he was paralysed. After a fall that bad, he should have been. He heard voices over his body; one he recognised as Midna's, and the other he also recognised but couldn't quite believe it. The same voice he'd heard while drowning in the lake just before he was pulled to the bank; Queen Rutela.

But there was no way that she was alive. It was simply impossible. Unless he had died when he fell and this was just some sort of after life. Though he couldn't allow himself to think that way. Not wanting to panic, he forced his mind to think of something else. Something that would sooth his head rather than cause extreme anxiety. He searched his mind, trying to remind himself of the reason why he should fight the pain in his body and get back into action.

It was Zelda's image that popped into his head before anything else could. Her smooth, porcelain skin illuminating her stormy blue eyes. Her tall and slender figure with her purple and white gown fitted perfectly around each and every curve, the white gloves that protected her dainty hands and only stopped below her shoulders where it replaced by golden shoulder pads, and her fair brown hair that framed her face; the sides bound into bunches by ties, with the rest flowing smoothly down her back, stopping just a few inches shy of the small of her back, and the headpiece that rested around her head; golden leaf shapes, gradually getting bigger until they reached the centre of her forehead, where it all came together in a V shape with a baby blue diamond that marked her hairline.

He could hear her voice in his mind, encouraging him not to give up and keep going for the sake of others and specifically those that cared about him too much.

Everyone that cared about him.

A few familiar faces flashed through his mind at that thought; Zelda, soon to be his wife. Midna, his two time companion and close friend. Epona, his loyal mare. Ilia, his childhood best friend whom he'd been too late to save. Yeto... A great friend who wouldn't live much longer if he did not get those ingredients to Yeta on time. He failed one friend already, but he would not fail another.

Forcing his mind to focus, Link channeled all his energy into opening his eyes. Keeping the thought of Yeto and Yeta freshly at the front of his mind, his eyes flew open almost instantly and without any control over it, a gasp escapes through his lips.

"Link!" He heard Midna cry before he'd even laid eyes on her.

"Mi- Mid-" He attempted to speak, but broke off into a coughing fit as the dryness of his mouth began to effect him.

"Here, drink this!" Midna instructed him, showing a little glass vile into his hand.

Link held the vile in his hands, sloshing the liquid inside it about as he silently analysed what it was. He gave Midna a questioning look, which was followed up by an encouraging look from her, so without any further hesitation, he unscrewed the cap and took a sip of the contents, though not without sniffing it first. The relief he felt afterwards was almost instant. His pain was no longer debilitating and had been reduced to a mere ache. It should have taken weeks, months even, to heal, yet with just one sip of whatever was in that vile, he was almost as good as new.

"Better?"

"Yes. Very. But how-"

"Queen Rutela. She was the one who pulled you from the lake while you were drowning, and she provided the elixir." Midna explained before he could finish the question.

"Wait, what? No, that can't be possible."

"Link-"

"Am I dreaming or is this- have I died or something?"

"No-"

"Queen Rutela is dead. She died a long time ago, you know that, Midna."

"Indeed she did, but it doesn't matter. She was the one who saved your life."

Link frowned, trying to piece together the events that had taken place after they'd retrieved the pumpkins, and gasped as he remembered Yeta and Yeto. He hadn't a clue how long it had been since he'd been to Castle Town, and he worried that they would be too late to save Yeto if they did not move quickly.

"Midna, how long was I out?"

"Almost the entire day."

"Oh no!"

"Don't panic, we still have time-"

"No, we don't know that." Link protested, sitting up on the side of the bed. "We need to get moving."

"Are you sure you're up for it just yet though? I mean, you literally just had your broken spine healed by a drink! You know how crazy that sounds?"

"I am aware, but I'm ready. Let's go get those Reekfish heads."

With that being said, he stood up and wobbled for a moment as he regained his balance. He quickly threw on his now dry green tunic and his brown goatskin boots, followed by his green hat and attached his sword and shield. He moved swiftly for the door, with Midna hiding in his shadow once more, and stopped abruptly, backing into the room as Queen Rutela stood before them.

Chapter Text

"Qu- Qu- No, this isn't possible. You are-" Link stammered, under the impression that he was imagining her.

Queen Rutela simply smiled, and stepped further into the room. Link backed up once more, feeling Midna move in the safety of his shadow. He reached behind him, ready to draw his sword if anything should occur.

"Master Link, please... do not concern yourself. I know that this may seem strange, but I have roamed here ever since my demise. It is now that I realise, my duty is not finished."

Link's hand dropped back down by his side and he nodded, waiting for her to continue. She pulled out a ragged old wooden stool, and gestured for him to sit. Without hesitation, he sat down and rested his elbows upon his knees, focusing solely on Queen Rutela.

"Word around Lake Hylia has it that the former King of Twilight is once again reaking havoc upon Hyrule, and I have been made aware that your current task is to save your friend Yeto, up in Snow Peak. Correct?"

"Yes, that is correct."

"Then please, tell me more."

"Ah, while I don't know the specifics, I know that I need to gather three ingredients. So far, I have managed to get one of those. But I still need Reekfish heads and Ordon goats cheese."

"I see." Queen Rutela nodded her head. "Usually, I would ask of some sort of service whenever I'd give a handout. This time, however, the troubles have not reached Lake Hylia... It is with this knowledge that I grant you a bucket of Reekfish heads." She finished, reaching behind her and producing a small metal bucket.

"Your Majesty, this really isn't necessary... I am willing to work for these things."

"No need! You and your companion have suffered enough already, and I don't want to risk you hurting yourself after having saved you from your fall... please, take this as a gift of gratitude."

"Really, I mean- wait! That was you?"

"Well, yes. There were no other souls in the vicinity."

"I- I have no words." Link stammered. "Thank you." He smiled as he got back on his feet and headed towards the door.

"Oh, and Link..."

Pausing for a moment, he turned around so that he was facing her once more. He could feel Midna growing impatient within his shadow, but he ignored it momentarily.

"Yes?"

"Do be careful out there. Hyrule is not a safe place during these times."

"Don't you worry, I will be just fine. Thanks again, your Highness."

With a nod, Link turned back towards the door and made a swift exit. He'd managed to get his hands on two of the ingredients so far, which left only the goat's cheese; the easiest of the three. Though it would not take long to pick some up, he was quick to cross Lake Hylia, and map out the shortest route to Castle Town. It would be easier getting to Ordon Village by horseback rather than on foot.

*_*_*_*_*

At the entrance to Ordon, Link knew he didn't have much time, but couldn't help but stop as they passed by the fountain. He smiled, and caressed Epona's neck, as he remembered Ilia making him promise to take care of her. Shaking the thought from his mind, he pushed on forward until they reached his old home and from there, onwards through the village and up towards the ranch.

He stopped just a few feet shy of the fence surrounding the herd, and dismounted Epona. As his feet hit the ground, Midna appeared from his shadow.

"Link, something tells me that Fado is in distress. Proceed with caution."

"Noted." Link nodded, raising his shield and approaching the barn slowly.

As he neared the entrance, he could hear the sound of struggle; a man yelling out for help, and the snort of pig-like creatures that he recognised as Moblins. Knowing that it would be unwise to enter unprepared, he drew his sword and crept quietly through the doors.

He glanced around and spotted Fado cowering in the corner of the penn, surrounded by at least four red, slobbering monsters. A smirk etched its way onto his face as he realised that they hadn't noticed him. Sticking to the shadows, he moved silently across the ground until he was close enough to strike and with one swift spin attack, slicing through all four of them at once and killing them. His smile didn't fade as he pointed his sword skyward and sheathed it before offering his hand to he Fado to his feet.

The ranch owner hesitated before accepting Link's help, and brushed himself off once he was standing upright.

"Master Link, oh what great timing you have. I felt for sure that those Moblins had me this time." He expressed his gratitude. "However can I repay you?"

"Oh, no that's not necessary at all. I'm just doing my duty." Link felt Midna nudge him, but paid no mind to it.

"Ah, please... there must be something that I can do." He insisted with pleading eyes.

"Hmm... Well, come to think of it... there is one thing that I am in need of."

Fado's face lit up with excitement and he clapped his hands together. "Tell me, Master Link, what is it that you need? If I can provide it then I will. It's the least I can do."

"The thing is, I have some... erh... friends up on Snowpeak Mountain, and one of them is sick. Unfortunately, he won't get better without Pumpkin soup, so I am seeking the ingredients, one of which is Ordon goats cheese."

"You are in luck. I just got some in this morning... say eh, how much are ya looking for?"

"I'm sure one or two blocks should be enough."

Without further conversation Fado moved from the penn that he'd been trapped in, and gestured for Link to follow him. He stopped back near the entrance to the barn and reached inside one of the wooden barrels, producing three blocks of fresh goats cheese.

"Here... please, take these as a token of gratitude."

"I really couldn't-" Link began, but was cut off by Midna nudging him again. "OW!"

"What?" Fado scratched his head.

"No, don't worry. In fact, the cheese would be great. Thank you."

"Ah, tush! I should be the one thanking you."

"Trust me, I've been through worse. It's no big deal."

Accepting the goat's cheese from Fado, Link then shook his hands as they walked together, over to where he'd stationed Epona. He slipped the cheese into his bag, and mounted the mare quickly. He pulled on the reins, allowing her to break into a slow walk as he waved goodbye to Fado. Once they were away from the ranch, he yanked on them again, causing her to break into a canter and as they reached his old home, he pulled them for a third time, and she broke into a gallop.

"We did it! We have the ingredients! I won't let another friend fall." He howled, pumping his fist in the air in joy.

"And now we should head to Snowpeak, time is of the essence, and we don't know how much Yeto has left." Midna advised. "Link, what is the quickest way?"

"That would be through Lake Hylia, remember?"

"Ah, yes. Of course." She agreed. "It would be wise to head there... although it appears that the night is upon us, are you sure about travelling through it?"

"Certain. As you said, we don't have much time and... each second that passes, who knows what Zelda could be going through." He sighed, all traces of joy having vanished from his voice.

Midna picked up on his change of tone immediately, and was struck with an idea. It would take them half the night to reach Lake Hylia once again, and she could see that during their travels, Link's mind tended to wander. With a small smile, she stepped out of his shadow.

"Hey, Link..."

"Yeah?"

"I know that aside from being worried about her, you miss her... I was thinking... perhaps it would help to talk."

Link opened his mouth, but closed it again and scratched his head as he had no idea how to respond to her offer. He'd never spoken properly to anyone other than Zelda herself, but he would be lying if he said that this journey hadn't strengthened his friendship with Midna. He bit his lip, contemplating it and then nodded.

"It's just... knowing that there are things that were left unsaid between us, and that by now... we should have been- you know... it hurts me to think that this is what we get instead of being happy. I can't stop thinking about her either... or the first time I truly realised what she meant to me- what she does mean to me."

"Tell me about it." Midna requested.

"Well, it was not that long after the Twili invasion... a few days, and I was staying at the castle... one morning, I was walking about and I accidentally walked in on her sitting in her garden, she was so caught up in her thoughts that she didn't notice me..."

*Flashback*

Link stood atop of the stairs, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He couldn't help but appreciate the sunlight that was shining through the windows all the more. Once his vision cleared up, he descended the staircase and continued down the hall, purposely avoiding all of the servants due to them constantly asking if he needed anything or if he was okay. It was appreciated, but sometimes just not necessary.

He turned the corner, and carried on until something caught his eye from the window he'd just passed. Taking a few steps back until he was standing in the doorway of the garden, he leaned against the archway and stared out into the small square of land that was filled with the greenest of grass, the brightest of flowers, a small Hylian Bass pond, and a birdhouse up in the tree that shaded it, and a swinging bench that was supported by two equally spaced branches.

Sitting by the edge of the pond was the Princess, her dress threaded through the grass and her long dark blonde hair cascading down her back with her bangs blocking his view of her face. He adjusted his head so that he could see little more than just her back, and smiled. In her lap was a small bird that couldn't have been more than a baby, and she appeared to be caressing the top of its head while attending its wing.

"You poor, poor thing. Don't worry, I'll have you back in the nest with your family soon."

As if it understood her, the bird chirped a couple of times. Link watched intently as she reached for something beside her; a small roll of bandages, and gently lifted the bird's wing, wrapping it up. Once she seemed happy with her work, she secured the bandage in place and cupped her hands. The bird hopped into her palm without any hesitation, and she rose to her feet, stretching her arms out until the bird was level with the lowest branch.

"Go on, little one. You'll be okay."

The bird chirped again, and then hopped from her hand onto the branch. She stood back and watched as it made its way up to the second lowest branch, where the birdhouse was. Link attempted to turn around before she could notice his presence, but misplaced his step, sending him to the ground on his backside. The Princess jumped and spun around, startled by the commotion, and let out a sigh when she saw that it was just Link.

"I uh- I wasn't spy- I erh- sorry, Princess."

"Not to worry, and please stop with the Princess, Zelda is fine, and it is also preferred."

"Of course, sorry Pri- uh- Zelda." He stammered, getting back on his feet and brushing himself down.

Zelda bit her lip to keep a laugh from escaping her and Link looked at her questioningly before she straightened up again. She settled for a smile as she reached over and pulled a leaf from his hair.

"Did you need anything?" She asked curiously.

"Oh. No. I just... I was- I-"

This time Zelda did laugh, and it came out as a girlish giggle. "It's okay, you know. You need not to be nervous."

"Me? Nervous? Nope. Never. I don't even know the meaning of the word."

"Yeah, sure you don't."

"Right. Well, I best leave you to it." He said and went to leave, though he stopped and turned back to her. "Zelda-"

"Yes?"

"I-" He began, but froze up. "Nothing. It doesn't matter."

"O- okay."

With one last smile, he walked away, leaving her in her garden in peace. Though the words he had wanted to say were still very much on the tip of his tongue, he just couldn't get them out.

*Present Day*

"After that, I ended up stalling for another week at least."

"But... you did tell her, at least."

"Well, that's not entirely true. She was the one to speak first. Even then... I couldn't say it. She could see it was there but... I- I've never said it to her, not until the night she was..."

"The night she was taken."

"Exactly."

"Awe, well... don't worry, Link. You will get your chance. I promise."

"Thank you, Midna."

"It's no big deal."

"No, I mean it. Thank you... of all those I've travelled with while saving this place in the past, you are the one I'm most fond of. I could never express how truly grateful I am for all that you have done for myself, and for Hyrule."

Chapter Text

Epona slowed down to a walk as they entered Castle Town, and once they were through the gates, Link dismounted her and led her by the reins to where he used to board her during the Twili invasion. After paying a small fee of ten rupees, he and Midna set off for the castle entrance. It was almost dawn, which would make it easier to get to the Snowpeak entrance.

"So, Link… once we've helped Yeto, we should get back to finding the shards. Only three remain now."

"I agree." He nodded. "I just- I'm not even sure where to start. We have been very fortunate in finding the first."

Midna stopped as they reached the doors of the Castle, and turned to Link. "But, where do you think they could be?" She sighed. "We don't really have the time so search the entire kingdom for them."

Link's neutral expression twisted into a frown as he thought hard about the likely locations of the remaining shards. That first one had been in the randomest of locations, and if Midna hadn't pointed out the bulbin then he would never have guessed it to be on them. Throughout the entire journey, he'd been pushing aside his fear of not finding the shards in time and ignoring the voice in his head that had been planting doubt, but now that she'd brought the subject up, he could no longer ignore it.

"Link?"

Realizing he'd spaced, he shook his head. "Let's not worry about that. I'm sure it'll work itself out."

"But we should really talk about-"

"No!... Midna, I can't. Not yet. It'll only distract me from what I need to do. I can't let that happen."

"I know. But if we don't plan then-"

"I said I can't! So, please… just drop it."

"O- alright."

"We can figure it out when the time comes."

Link walked on ahead, leaving Midna standing still for a moment before she trailed along. From the beginning she could see his doubt, and it had only grown bigger with each day that passed. She feared that if she couldn't get him to talk soon then it would surface horribly at a time when he couldn't afford to lose.

As he hastily made his way through the halls, he pushed back all the memories that were attempting to flood his mind, and instead focused on getting to where they needed to be. Midna caught up as he neared the throne room and then turned off of the path and headed out towards the waterfall.

"Uh Link, do we still have to-" Midna began, but watched as he dived down before she could finish. "Dive." She muttered and followed his lead with a shrug.

Link kicked his legs as hard as he could, swimming down to the bottom right and through a narrow gap. Breaking the surface of the water and climbing onto the path, he gasped as air rushed to his lungs and then turned, waiting for Midna who appeared only seconds later. Though she looked rather unimpressed.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" He scratched his head.

"Hmm, I don't know… maybe because I could have just warped us here!" She pointed out, clapping him around the back of the head.

"Oh well, it hardly matters now." Link rolled his eyes. "Let's get going. We have a life to save."

Side by side, they walked down the path that led up to two large double doors; the entrance to Snowpeak. Link looked to Midna, who gave him an affirmative nod, and then he pushed his body weight against the right door. He struggled a bit before the door gave way and opened just enough for them to be able to slip through.

The howl of ice cold wind echoed through the air, sending chills down his spine. He sucked in a breath and folded his arms against his chest in an attempt to keep his body warmth. Unlike the last time he'd been here, he wasn't totally prepared. He carried only weapons with no change of clothes or armour. Midna, although she wore only her Twili dress and cape, did not react to the cold. She didn't even shiver.

"Shouldn't you change? Your clothes are soaked."

"I can't."

"What do you mean you can't?"

"I didn't bring anything to change into."

Midna planted her face in her palm. "But you can't stay in that…"

"Why not?"

"You'll get sick! Does hypothermia sound fun to you?"

"Not really, no."

"Then you have to take those off…"

Link's eyes widened in horror and he frowned, shaking his head defiantly. Midna stood tall, unmoving as she waited for him to realize that continuing in wet clothes would be unwise.

"But-"

"Come on, you're not gonna be able to save Zelda if you freeze to death! And, you'll freeze a lot quicker in those clothes."

"Fine." He huffed, knowing that she was right and hating it.

"Tick tock, get on with it." She demanded, turning around to give him some privacy.

Begrudgingly, Link put his weapons aside and grabbed the hem of his Hylian tunic and lifted it up over his head, revealing his scar bearing chest. He hesitated for a moment, then sighed before removing his trousers too, leaving only his blue undergarments and picking his weapons back up.

"There." He grumbled. "Happy now?" He questioned as he shoved the wet clothes into his pouch.

Raising her eyebrow, she turned around and couldn't stop the laugh that followed. Link's frown turned into a scowl as he took a few steps forward.

"If you are done laughing, I'd like to get to Yeto and Yeta now." He grouched, trembling in the cold.

Midna ignored his complaint and the two continued walking through the thick blanket of snow that covered the land. Not even ten steps further, Link stopped once more as his body began to stiffen, making it hard to move. His shivers only increased as he did so, making it hard to speak, but Midna quickly realized that he was no longer beside her and turned to see him drop to his knees.

"Link?"

"I- I- I'll be f-fine." He stuttered. "I just need a m- m- minute."

Kneeling down in front of him, she reached out and placed her hand on his shoulder. His skin was ice cold to the touch, and she could tell that he wouldn't make it all the way to Yeto and Yeta's mansion if he continued like this.

"Link, I have an idea… but I won't do it unless you agree."

"A- agree to what?" He asked, trying to steady his breathing enough to talk.

"During the Twili invasion, you had a certain ability that aided you in some ways. I do believe that this would be one of those times where it would be of use."

"You mean…" He drifted off.

"Yes. I mean becoming a wolf again." She confirmed. "And because I would be granting you these powers this time, you wouldn't be stuck in that body."

"B- but what about w- w- when we enter the r-realm?"

"You'd still have the choice, though it would be better to blend in until we reach the Twili Castle."

Link pondered this thought and after weighing up his options, decided that it was the only one that would get them anywhere. Although reluctant, he gave her a confirming nod. She brought her hands up so that they were parallel and in a matter of seconds, a ball of green light with a gold-ish glow hovered in between. She released the ball, and watched as it drifted towards Link, and disappeared when it hit his chest exactly where his heart beat underneath.

His shivering stopped but nothing happened, and he shot Midna a questioning look which she returned with an assuring smile. Glancing down at his hands, he could feel something stirring within his body and before he could say anything, his fingertips turned a midnight black, which quickly spread to his wrists and up his arms. His whole body was soon nothing more than a shadow and that's when the change occurred. The human form that was being assaulted by shivers had morphed into the form of a beast and the shadow that had covered it, faded away to reveal a wolf with thick grey fur, a white belly chest and nose, metal ringlets piercing both ears and unique markings in between its eyes.

"That's better." Midna smirked.

Link, now completely a wolf, wasted no time in moving. The thickness of his fur meant that he didn't feel the cold as much as he had before, enabling him to run faster. He continued through the snow until the steep hill came into his line of vision, causing him to skid to a halt, stopping just inches shy of the drop. Midna glanced down the drop, and turned to Link.

"And how do you suggest we get down this hill? It's different this time, you had a snowboard."

Despite being unable to verbalize his thoughts, Link lowered his two front paws to the ground and lifted his backside higher, with his tail wagging like a boisterous labrador. Midna remained standing as her eyes danced back and forth between him and the hill.

"I'm not jumping in your shadow only to have you surf down this thing. Forget it!"

Link straightened up again with a whine, and as he took in her stubbornness, another idea struck him. He huffed before lowering his entire body to the ground in one swift flop, and rolled over so that he was on his back. Midna's eyes widened in concern.

"Now isn't the time for a nap or a belly scratch, Link." She rolled her eyes.

Without warning, he rolled back on to his stomach, and then leapt up at her. She fell backwards, sending her tumbling down the hill; though not before she grabbed hold of his fur, pulling him along with her. Small mixes of growls and whines escaped him while she squealed the entire time until they crash landed in a heap at the bottom. Dazed from the fall, Midna got to her feet and rubbed her head. Link jumped to his feet, unaffected by the tumble, but as Midna finally regained her focus, she bent down and flicked him in the nose. He let out a loud whimper and backed away, with eyes as sappy as a puppy's.

"Don't look at me like that. I don't feel guilty at all, you deserved that!" She huffed. "And don't you think that you should change back before we go and greet Yeta. I'd hate to think of the chaos if she were to see you this way."

Lowering his head, Link morphed quickly back into his human form and wrapped his arms around himself. Now that Midna was satisfied, they walked up to the front doors of the mansion and noticed that the door on the right was ajar.

"Y- Yeta?... Are you home?... It's me, Link." He called out. "And my friend Midna. I got your note, we have come to help Yeto."

The distant sound of shuffling feet got closer and Yeta appeared in the doorway with a huge smile plastered on her face and a hopeful look in her eyes.

"Link come to save Yeto?"

"That's right." He nodded.

"Yeta sent note. Yeta glad you got note. Yeta invites you inside."

"Th- thank you." He stammered, trying not to shiver too hard.

Yeta widened the gap in the door to allow them through and as soon as they set foot inside the mansion, the heat from the crackling fire warmed Link instantly. He exhaled in relief, finally being able to drop his arms back down by his sides.

"Yeta see that Link is bare. So, Yeta offer these clothes as gift for troubles."

Link was about to speak up, when Yeta produced some fresh garments from beneath her wrap. He eyed the outfit, trying to hide his horror in order not to offend her. In her hands was a white gown made of wool, just the thought of it made him feel itchy, and he bit back a laugh as he briefly pictured Zelda in one of her nightgowns that were similar to what he was being presented with.

"Oh, no. I couldn't possibly-"

"Ahah!" Yeta interrupted. "Link must accept."

He opened his mouth to speak again, but Yeta gave him no chance as she rushed towards him and shoved the gown over his head and body, trapping his arms. Midna hid her face, trying not to laugh as Link struggled to ease his arms into the sleeves.

"There. Yeta sure that Link much better now."

"Yeah, thank you." He muttered, trying not to squirm.

"Did Link and friend bring ingredients for Pumpkin soup?"

"Ordon pumpkins, goat's cheese and reekfish heads. Check, check and check."

"Yahoo! Come, Link… hand Yeta ingredients to make soup. You go speak with Yeto."

"O- okay."

Link reached into the bag where he'd been keeping all of the soup ingredients, and handed over the goat's cheese first, followed by the Reekfish heads and finally the pumpkins to Yeta. She took them all in her arms at once before setting them down on a small wooden table, located next to a cooking pot. He hovered for a moment, watching as she began to prepare to make the soup, but she was quick to notice.

"Yeto want speak with Link. Must go now."

After hesitating for a second more, he turned and headed towards the door but looked back as he realized that Midna was not behind him. His eyes quickly fell upon her leaning on the table, taking in everything Yeta was doing, and he smiled before slipping quietly through the door; leaving the two undisturbed.

Inside the room he'd just entered, it was almost bare. The only thing that truly stood out was the bed over by the wall; a large king size with white linen sheets covering the surface and a canopy held up by four posters. In the middle of the bed, Yeto was laid down, his eyes just barely open. Closing the door behind him, Link paced over and sat down on a wooden stool that was beside the bed.

"Yeto?"

"Ah-" Yeto began to speak, but broke off into a coughing fit. "Link come see Yeto?"

"I have… and I've brought ingredients with me to help Yeta make the soup that's going to help you get better."

"Link help Yeto. Link is good boy."

"Right." Link squirmed as heat rose to his cheeks, feeling slightly embarrassed. "Anyway, Yeta mentioned that you wanted to speak with me?"

"Yeta right. Yeto want to give Link gift for troubles."

"Oh. No… you really shouldn't-"

"Ah, but gift help Link to get where need."

Link frowned. "What do you mean?"

"Yeto sense Link on important mission and with old friend too. Yeto has something that belong to friend."

"Really?"

"Link be kind and get bag over there for Yeto?"

With a nod, Link looked to where Yeto was pointing over to the top of a closet that he'd failed to notice upon entrance. He got up from where he was sitting and walked over, retrieving a bag that was discarded at the top and then handing it to Yeto.

"Yeto know Link need this, so Yeto give to Link…"

Yeto pulled himself into a sitting position before reaching into the bag. Link watched, anticipating what he was about to be presented with. As he removed his hands from the bag, Link bit down to stop himself from gasping at what was now in Yeto's hand.

"Th- That's the-"

"Shard of mirror. Yeto found while out. Though it zapped Yeto when touch it and make Yeto ill. Link need shard, so Yeto bring home."

Taking the shard from Yeto's outstretched hands, he examined it closely. Then everything clicked into place. Yeto had fallen ill after bringing the mirror home, and if that was the case then… could it be that it was also a mirror shard that had caused the memory loss of the Castle Town residents?

"T- thank you, Yeto." Link whispered, still staring at the shard. "Now, we should focus on getting you well."

Chapter Text

Upon finishing the fresh batch of pumpkin soup, Yeto wiped at his mouth with the back of his arm and then handed the bowl back to Yeta, who set it down on the little table. It had been only a day and Yeto's condition had improved. As a thank you, Yeta had given him a bottle of the soup and even allowed them to spend the night at the mansion.

Link felt slightly more at ease, seeing Yeto's speedy recovery and being given another shard, but with two still left to find he couldn't allow himself to rest for too long. Having barely slept a wink, he was out of bed at the first sign of sunrise; dressed in the same green tunic, with his weapons and shield strapped to his back. He headed for the door when the slightest sound of movement followed by the creaking of floorboards froze him in place. He turned around and saw Midna standing beside the bed opposite to the one he'd slept in.

"Link? It's six in the morning… where are you going?"

His shoulders slumped and with a sigh, he moved away from the door and towards her. "We don't have the time to hang around too long, as much as I love seeing Yeto get back to his usual self, we need to find the remaining shards."

"And we will." She assured him. "But we can't rush or else we may miss something."

"I'm not rushing!" He snapped, instantly regretting it as he rubbed the back of his neck with his hand. "Sorry, I uh- I didn't mean it like that. I just wanted to make an early start, hopefully meaning that we can find the missing shards and finally be able to go and challenge Zant."

Midna rested her hands on her hips, unimpressed with his tone, but choosing to ignore it. "Yeah, I know. I get it. You want to find these pieces, get to the Twili Realm and get Zelda back. I get it, okay? But trying to rush it will only cause mistakes, and we can't afford those. Not when we're this close to putting an end to Zant once and for all. Also, consider yourself lucky! You have someone to fight for, and not just a kingdom. You have an entire land filled with friends who are willing to jump to help you after all that you have done for them! Not all of us are as lucky as you, Link. We cannot rush this. Everything will be fine; Zelda will be fine. Missing something important will only hinder our quest. So, think about that before you go rushing out of the door."

Link stood frozen for a moment with his mouth agape. He wasn't rushing at all, and he hadn't meant what he'd said in the harshest way, but it was as though her words had flipped a switch in his brain and he realized that she was right; not everyone, in fact only a fair few, were as lucky as he. It was something that he easily forgot throughout all his travels and the mayhem that went down in the Kingdom that sent him trekking from a to b.

"Midna, I-" He stopped, unsure of what else to say. Instead he remained silent as he crossed the room and retrieved his bag, having only just noticed that he was about to leave it behind. "I'm not rushing. I just don't want to sit around doing nothing to progress." He sighed. "I'm sorry, sometimes I forget how lucky I am. Perhaps because it seems like I'm always off on these crazy yet dangerous quests… but I never really stopped to think that there are some that don't have what I'm fighting to keep. I guess I'm flawed in that way."

Rolling her eyes, she dropped her hands back by her sides. "It's fine, Link. No one is perfect, and I don't expect you to understand… it's okay to be flawed, just be considerate of the situation that others are in too."

Link remained quiet, responding with a small smile and a simple nod. He quirked an eyebrow, waiting for her to make a decision on what she wanted to do next; wanting to allow her some control over the quest too. This time, she was the one to move towards the door, but she stopped when she realized that he hadn't moved from the spot and turned around with a wide smirk upon her face.

"Are you just gonna stand there, Romeo, or are you going to join me in continuing our quest to save your girl?"

"I uh- I- yes." He stammered, almost tripping over his feet as he moved back towards the door. "Let's see if we can figure out where we go next."

Midna pursed her lips as she thought about Yeto and the second shard. "May I make a suggestion?"

"Please. If you have any ideas, I'm all ears."

"I think by now, it's pretty obvious what the cause of Yeto's illness was. It seemed to clear rather vastly after he passed the mirror shard on to you…"

"Yeah, I noticed that." He agreed. "But what's your point?"

"My point, Link, is that the mirror shard was causing havoc here, what if it's a mirror shard that's causing the chaotic memory loss within Hyrule Castle and Castle Town?"

Link opened his mouth, about to speak, and then closed it again and frowned as he remembered Castle Town, and how no one other than himself and the King had any recollection of the invasion. It was a thought that had gone right over his head at the time, but looking back now, he couldn't deny that it was a plausible possibility.

"Hmm, I think you might be onto something; perhaps it would be wise to check there next."

"I concur. We should head out now, that way we'll get there before noon and have the rest of the day to check every nook and cranny."

Link gave an affirmative nod, and then continued through the door with Midna following closely behind him. Back in the kitchen, Yeta was stirring up another batch of pumpkin soup as Yeto waited patiently at the table.

"Yeta see Link leaving?"

"Unfortunately, I always knew it would be a small visit. We have to move on now, but thank you for letting us stay, and for the soup." He said, giving them a small smile.

"Link no thank us. Yeto want to thank Link for making Yeto better."

"That's really not necessary. It was my pleasure, really." Link assured them.

"Yeto wish Link safe travel. Link come visit soon?"

"Once things have settled down again, yes. I promise I'll come and visit."

"That makes Yeto very happy to hear."

"Of course." He smiled again. "Goodbye, Yeto… Yeta."

Tightening the strap that held his weapons on his back, he sighed as he headed towards the front door to the mansion. Outside, the air was just as bitter as it was when they'd traveled to the mansion, but this time Link didn't take the time to stop and shiver. Instead he forced himself to keep moving in order to prevent freezing. As he neared the lake that would lead them back to Hyrule Castle, he paused and turned to Midna.

"What is it?" She asked, placing her hand on his shoulder.

"I don't want to be held back by freezing after swimming." He admitted.

"Then change into the wolf. You can always change back on the other side."

"Oh. Right."

Link closed his eyes, with the wolf pictured vividly in his mind, and dropped to his knees as a darkness enveloped him. It began in his hands; morphing into the paws of a beast, and soon spread throughout his entire body until all human features had been replaced with that of a wolf. He stretched out, and looked back at Midna with his blue eyes bouncing the reflection of the water. With the same mischievous look he had earlier, he sprung towards the edge and then dived into the water, lifting his head above the surface and waiting expectantly for Midna to join him.

"Don't look at me like that, I'm not diving in." She rolled her eyes as she walked over and eased herself down into the water.

Once they were both in the water, Link dived down and was followed by Midna, who remained close as they broke the surface on the other side. He climbed out of the water, and waited until she had climbed out and dried herself off, then shook himself off like a dog; spraying her with water droplets that flew off his fur.

"Link!" She shrieked. "You are such a kid when you're in this form. Change back now!" She demanded, folding her arms across her chest.

With one last look, Link let the same darkness envelope him once again and the morph of his body from beast to man happened vastly. He got to his feet and a boyish grin spread across his face.

"Happy now?" He teased her.

"Yes." She hissed. "Happy, but also wet."

"Sorry about that." He chuckled. "I just couldn't help myself.

"Of course you couldn't." She giggled.

Link smirked, but said nothing in response as he started to walk back up the pathway that would lead them straight into Hyrule Castle's throne room. Upon reaching the door, he froze and instinctively reached for his sword, drawing it and reached for the handle.

"What is it?" Midna asked, noticing the tensing of his muscles.

He brought a finger to his lips, signaling her to remain silent as they proceeded. With no further questions, he opened the door slowly so that it wouldn't make too much of a sound, and then raised his shield ready for if anyone - or thing, should attack. His eyes scanned the room for any abnormalities, locking on the door to the side of the main entrance.

"Looks pretty normal to me." Midna whispered.

Link frowned and lowered his shield. He couldn't deny what he was seeing; the room looked just as it did every other time he'd been in it. But he also couldn't shake the feeling in his gut that his eyes were deceiving him.

"I don't know… this doesn't feel right to me."

"Ugh!" Midna complained. "There is nothing wrong with this room!" She raised her voice.

"But I-" He began but stopped as Midna rolled her eyes and pushed past him, going to stand in the centre of the room. "I don't think that's a good-"

"Stop it!" She interjected. "Look, see? I'm standing right in the middle here and nothing is happen-"

Cut off by a loud rumble, Link shifted into a fighting stance and steadied himself as the ground began to shake. He watched wide eyed as the floor cracked beneath his feet and rolled out of the way before he could fall through the gap. As he landed back on his feet, he looked back at Midna, who was trapped on a small part of the ground that had been surrounding by cracks.

"This can't be good…" She gulped.

Link rushed forward to attempt to help her, but before he could reach her something slithered out of the cracks. He stepped back, but swung his sword horizontally, slicing at the three Chu Chu that were advancing towards him, and ending them with a single hit. He moved forward once more, but was forced back again. This time, it wasn't Chu Chu that had emerged from the cracks, but Shadow Beasts.

One. At first.

He readied himself as it crawled towards him, and struck it with a vertical slash, watching as it shrieked, split in half and then burst into ashes. Though he didn't have the time to linger on the kill he'd just made as another one crawled out of the chasm that had now formed from the cracks, followed by another.

Soon there were three. Then four. Eventually there were six. Two tormenting Midna, who continuously knocked them about with the hand that formed and stretched from within her golden hair, and the rest surrounding Link, giving him no way to escape.

"Hate to say I told you so, but-" Link yelled, being cut off as one of the beasts pounced.

Thrusting the Master sword forward at the right moment, the sharp edge of the blade pierced through the creature, causing it to shriek and explode.

"I told you so." He finished.

"This is so not the time to get cocky, Link!" She called back, giving one of the beasts a face full of giant fist.

Link didn't have the chance to say anymore as another creature advanced towards him. Without enough time to swing his sword, he raised his shield and allowed the beast to run into it, disorienting it. Seeing his chance, he thrust the sword forward, stabbing the it through the chest.

Four Shadow Beasts remained, and Link had an idea. With two of the beasts still focused on Midna, he made a run from the ones that were gaining on him, towards the chasm. The other two followed him, just as he'd hoped. Before they could reach him, he was the wolf again. He drew back his upper lip in a snarl, revealing pearly white canines and waited until all four beasts were close together. As they closed in on him, he performed a spin attack that wounded them all in equal measures. Now blindsided, the beasts slowed for a split second, giving him enough time to perform another attack, injuring them further. He shifted back into his human form quickly, and held his sword horizontally at arms length, then swung it in another spin attack. All four beasts shrieked as they withered up and then burst into nothing but ashes.

He glanced around the room, and once he decided that it was clear, he sheathed his sword and turned his attention to Midna, still stuck on the small piece of ground amid the chasm. Thinking for a moment, he got as close as he could to the edge without danger of falling in and reached out with his hand.

"I can't get to you, the gap is too wide!" She pointed out.

Withdrawing his hand, he looked around for anything that might be of use, but before he could locate anything, the ground rumbled again and he fell backwards; landing on his back. He scrambled to his feet, once again weary of any enemies that may appear..

"Jump."

"What?" She called out in disbelief. "Are you out of your mind? I can't jump this!"

"Yes, you can… Jump, and I won't let you fall." He instructed.

"No way!"

"We don't have time for this, Midna. Just…. Just trust me." He pleaded with his eyes.

The ground rumbled again, this time more violently, and Midna looked around in desperation before realising that she had no other choice. Link was right. They had neither the time to search for another way, nor the resources to create one.

"Please don't fail me, Link." She prayed under her breath, and then backed up as much as she could, running and leaping off the ledge.

Her arms flailed in the air as she flew over the chasm, but relaxed as Link caught her with little effort. She breathed a sigh of relief and closed her eyes, but as he was about to set her down, another violent rumble erupted, causing him to stagger and his grip on her to loosen. She slipped from his arms and fell down into the chasm. Link dived to the floor, landing on his chest, but catching her by the hand before she could fall too far.

"Nice save… now, could you pull me up?"

Link nodded, pulling himself to his knees and then gripping her with his other hand to double his strength as he pulled. With a small struggle, she was soon able to reach the ledge with her feet and with one final pull that broke his grip, she climbed out of the chasm, falling forward and knocked Link flat on his back.

"I- uh- sorry." She muttered, flushing from embarrassment as she scrambled back on her feet and offered her hand to help him up.

He accepted, and let her help him to his feet before brushing himself down. "It's- It's okay." He said breathlessly.

"But why on earth would they booby trap the throne room?" She questioned. "It wasn't like that when came through here on our way to Snowpeak."

"That's just it…" He began. "They wouldn't unless there was something to hide."

Midna frowned. "You don't think they hid the mirror shard in here, do you?"

"I don't know, but it's worth a look. Though we need to hurry before these quakes get too bad. We barely made it out safely from the first three."

"Yeah, that was a close call." She agreed. "Well, you know your way around the castle better than I do, where do you think it could be?"

Link thought for a second. "Perhaps we should start where this all began; Zelda's chambers."

"Great. Let's go!"

With that being agreed upon, they moved swiftly towards the main entrance to the throne room, and not thinking of anything else, they slipped through into the hall. But as they turned the corner leading to the staircase, Link skidded to a halt; eyes wide and cat-like, and his mouth agape in shock. Midna stopped a few inches behind him, peered over his shoulder and followed his stare.

"Uh…" She began.

"This can't be a good sign." He finished for her, and swallowed as he drew his sword once more.

Chapter Text

Turning around to head back the way they'd come, Link stopped abruptly as a horde of monsters barged through. Both he and Midna backed up as the horde advanced towards them. He glanced behind them, knowing that the swarm of Bulblins, Lizalfo and Shadow Beasts were also closing in on them. He looked at Midna, who gave a nervous smile and shrugged her shoulders.

"What do we do now?" She questioned as they were forced back to back.

"I don't think we have a choice really…"

"Huh?"

"We have to fight our way out." He determined, suddenly raising his sword and bringing it down to pierce through a bulblin's head.

Midna smirked, and extended the large hand from her hair once more, smacking multiple enemies in one hit at the same time as Link sliced through another three with a horizontal slash.

"There's no way that we're gonna be able to fight off all of these!" She said, grabbing another bulblin and throwing it across the room, where it crashed into a wall and landed on the ground.

"If I can just make the transformation again then-"

"No! It's too risky! The few seconds you spend in between human and wolf form leave you vulnerable and open to attack."

"Well-" He began, stopping as ducked sideways to dodge an attack. "We can't-" He paused again, slicing through another Bulblin. "Take them all on like this."

"Heck yeah, we can!"

Feeling a surge of power, Midna advanced forward and used her powers to create a wave of energy that blasted half of the mob away, enabling them to have more movement. Using the created space, Link rolled away from an incoming Shadow Beast and swung his sword; taking its head off in one swift movement. He moved on quickly to another Bulblin, meanwhile Midna slid to where Link was previously standing and levitated off the ground before throwing another wave of energy, knocking over all that were hit with it. While they were down, Link moved in to attack. The pair continued to move and attack the horde this way until they were down to a mere handful.

"Okay, now you can transform and take them out, Link." Midna stated, smacking the remaining enemies away continuously.

"Gotcha!" He said as he became encased in darkness, only to reappear as the wolf.

With a wider range of attacks, Link focused his attention on the three Shadow Beasts that Midna was smacking away repeatedly, then he pounced on the nearest one and ripped into the surface of its withered skin, killing it. Once it had fallen, he pounced onto the next one, repeating the same attack and moving onto the third, slaying it in seconds. As he morphed back into human form, he looked back at Midna, who had just about finished off the remaining Lizalfo and Bulblin, then sheathed his sword.

"We should hurry before more hoards of monsters swarm this place." He stated, taking off up the staircase.

Upon reaching the door to Zelda's bed chambers, Link slowed near the doorway and peaked around the door, ensuring that the coast was clear. He stepped forward into the room when a tap on his shoulder caused him to turn around again.

"There's no one here, I doubt that if the shard were here that they would leave it unguarded." Midna pointed out.

"Unless it's not unguarded." He said. "The throne room was booby trapped, who's to say that this room isn't too?"

"Also true." She agreed.

"Ladies first…" He stepped aside.

Midna shook her head. "Nuh-uh, not this time!"

"Suit yourself." He muttered, venturing further into the room with caution. "Okay, it seems like this room is safe… but where could the mirror shard be?"

"Not here, considering the lack of enemies."

"Then I guess we should move-" Link began, turning for the door only to have it slam shut. "On. Uhh…."

"Don't just stand there! Open the door, Link!"

Reaching for the handle, he struggled as the door wouldn't budge no matter how hard he tried. Even as he slammed himself into it, shoulder first, it wouldn't move. Giving up, he sighed in defeat and leaned back against the door.

"Great! We're stuck here."

"I'm sure we could find-"

"There's no way out other than through the door, Midna."

"Oh, well what about the window?"

"It's useless. Nothing but a death drop below."

"Hmm…" Midna hummed. "I guess someone is trying to keep us from getting our hands on the shard."

"And we fell for their tricks and can't do a damn thing about it!" He growled, kicking the door with the back of his heel.

"Seriously! Chill out, Link! We're not going to be able to think clearly if we get worked up!"

Inhaling deeply and then exhaling slowly, he sank to the floor. "I know… I just… I don't want to be trapped here feeling useless while Zant gets to carry out whatever he's planning."

Midna's expression softened and she sat down beside him in order to think for a moment. "Link… I'm not saying this to be mean, I'm saying this as your friend, but you've been really snappy recently and you've been trying to rush through this. Don't you think that maybe… well, maybe that might be what's holding us back?"

Link lifted his head and his expression flashed from hurt, to shock, to realization and his shoulders slumped. "You're right." He sighed. "I'm no good to anyone like this."

"No, Link… I didn't say that!" She groaned. "You mistook that. What I'm saying is that you're the only hope that this kingdom, and my own for that matter, have at getting rid of Zant, and I don't think you realize that sometimes you're holding yourself back by getting worked up or letting your desperation overtake you. But I can't help you if you don't talk to me."

Closing his eyes, he began to feel slightly awkward and uncomfortable. It wasn't due to Midna, but simply because he wasn't one to speak up and pass the burden onto others. Though sometimes it wasn't always best, and just as he feared; this was one of those times.

"I just don't want to fail them, or you or- or her."

"And you won't." She assured him. "You have never failed at this before, I doubt anything will be different this time."

"Something already is."

"What?"

"Ilia. I'm talking about Ilia."

"Oh… You never really spoke about that, is that what this is about?"

Link nodded his head. "She was my best friend, Midna. I don't want what happened to her to happen to anyone else, especially not you or Zelda." He admitted. "I know that there's still time to save the kingdom, but I- I failed her and-"

"It's okay, Link… you don't have to tell me all of this if you don't want to."

"No, it's okay." He insisted, taking in a shaky breath. "If… If I don't make it in time and something happens to her, I will never forgive myself." He finished, planting his head down.

Midna's eyes widened as the sound of sniveling reached her ears and her face fell as tried to think of something to say. Unable to find the right words, she reached out and placed her hand on top his own that was resting on the floor. He lifted his head with a gasp, and instantly scrambled to his feet.

"I- I'm sorry. I shouldn't be- If anything I should be looking for a way to get us out of here. I'm no hero if I just sit around and give up." He rambled.

"It's fine… that doesn't make you any less of a hero, and I'd bet that if Zelda were here, she would say the same thing." Midna pointed out. "Though I do agree, it's been a while, we should try and get out of here."

"There has to be a way to get this door open." He huffed, examining the door closely.

"Or I could just… warp us." She suggested with a laugh, looking down at her feet when he turned to her.

"Are you telling me that you could've done that this whole time?"

Her laughter died down quickly. "Yes, but before you get mad at me, let me ask you… does it feel good to get those buried feelings off your chest?"

"I…" Link paused for a moment. "Actually, yeah. It does." He answered. "And I'm not mad, I understand why you did it."

"Good." She sighed in relief.

"But can you get us out of here now? I feel like I'm gonna go crazy if I have to spend another minute trapped in this room."

"As you wish." She smirked.

A few seconds later, green Twili power enveloped them both, breaking them down into small blue particles before reanimating them out in the hall. Link examined his hand, blinking a few times as if he half expected it to disappear, then snapped out of it as he looked down the hall.

"Odd." He commented.

"What?"

"Shouldn't there be monsters crawling this place right now?"

"Right. The swarm. I almost forgot about those… Yeah, it is odd. We should proceed with caution."

Link nodded and raised his shield as they started deeper down the hall. It was an odd feeling, having to keep his guard up in the castle after such a long period of peace, but not an unfamiliar one. They turned the corner, and he was just about ready to reach for his sword in case of any surprise attacks, but let his hand drop down by his side again as the hall appeared to be empty.

"This is getting weird." He commented.

"I'll say… It's almost as if they want us to succeed."

"Hah! As if…" Link almost laughed. "I don't think we should be gloating just yet. Perhaps there's something we missed."

"How could we miss a mirror shard though?"

"It's possible… especially if it was hidden in plain sight."

"Hmm…" She thought for a second. "I see what you're saying, shouldn't we head back just to be sure?"

"Well, with the throne room in pieces we can safely rule that out. Checking Zelda's bed chambers once more would be wise though, for all we know continuing down this hall could mean walking into another trap."

Turning around, the two started to head back the way they'd come until they reached Zelda's bed chambers once more. The first place Link thought to check was the wooden closet that housed all of the Princess' garments. With caution, he opened the left door slowly and peered in.

"Uhh, Link…"

"Later, Midna. I'm busy searching."

Planting her face in the palm of her hand, she sighed. "No, Link… Look!" She instructed.

Link groaned, but turned around and his gaze followed the direction that Midna was pointing in. He quirked an eyebrow and headed over to the Queen sized bed with a canopy of white curtains being held back by little ties. Laid on the bed as it had been ever since Zelda had last used it, was her gold plated hairbrush. Though it appeared to have been untouched, its appearance was noticeably different. The gold plating remained, but appeared to be tainted by an illuminous green that was glowing.

"Could it be?..." He whispered, reaching out and picking up the brush.

Upon closer inspection, the green that was tainting the gold was created by something that had been attached to the back of the brush. He hesitated for a moment, but ran his fingers along the surface until he touched upon a spot that seemed to detach from the gold, and with a slight pull it came away, revealing itself to be exactly what he'd thought it would be.

"The third shard." He concluded, his mouth agape.

Chapter Text

Link stood still in shock with the mirror shard resting in the palm of his hand. He stared down at it, half expecting it to disappear or for him to wake up back into Yeto's mansion. But neither happened.

"One shard to go!" Midna cheered.

Snapping out of his daze, he turned around to see Midna, and his eyes widened. "Y- you're- You're glowing."

Midna smiled. "Thanks, but I don't need the compliment. I already know I'm awesome."

"No, I mean you're literally glowing."

"Oh." Midna's eyes drifted over her body and she took a step back as she noticed for the first time that she was, in fact, glowing. "But… why?"

"That's what I'd like to know." Link mumbled.

Before any more could be said or done, the beam of the glow intensified, growing brighter and brighter until Link was forced to shield his eyes from the light with his hands. Midna yelped, and he forced himself to look back despite the blinding light. He squinted his eyes, unsure of what to do as she continued to jerk and writhe until the light began to fade. In its place, another mirror shard- the final mirror shard - appeared, levitating in the air. Midna blinked twice, unbelieving of what had just happened, then reached out and took the shard in her hands. Link stared on in astonishment.

"H- how is this even possible?"

Link thought hard. "Maybe when you destroyed the mirror after the Twili invasion, part of it stuck with you."

"Erh, I think I would have noticed if I consumed a mirror shard, Link. I'm not slow."

"Of course you would have, had it been an unsubtle move… but not if it wasn't right away."

"And how do you explain that?" She questioned.

"I- I can't. I don't know if I'm right, it's just a guess… but from everything we've been through, you can't tell me that it's not possible."

Midna shrugged. "Yeah, I guess." Then grinned. "Hey, Link… This is the last one! We have all the shards."

Link's neutral expression turned into a smile, a toothy, beaming smile and the light that had disappeared from his eyes for so long finally returned. He slung his shield back onto his back and almost jumped with joy and pumped his fist in the air.

"We did it!"

"Now, let's go destroy that Usurper!" She said, holding the shard out for him to take.

With one hand, Link pushed the shard back towards her. "Not here, anyone could find and stumble through it. We should put them together somewhere more secure…"

"But where? The entire kingdom is filled with people and monsters."

"Everywhere save for one place."

"Oh yeah?"

"The Princess' Garden… No one enters without permission when she's not around, not even myself or the King."

"Sounds secure enough, let's head there now."

Link nodded, backing out of the room and leading the way down the staircase to the ground floor of the Castle, then through the passageway, stopping when they reached an archway that was closed off only by a simple wooden gate. Midna stared out into the few small acres of land; the fresh green grass, the Hylian Bass pond that was shaded by a tree that held a little birdhouse on one of its branches and sighed. There was not a place she could think of that was more beautiful than Hyrule, and this garden in particular.

"This is beautiful… Are you sure we should build the mirror here? I would hate to ruin such a place."

"I am sure." He confirmed. "Grass and flowers can grow back, but that will mean nothing if Zelda isn't here to witness it."

Reaching out and placing her hand on his shoulder, she gave him a sympathetic smile. "We're so close… If things continue then maybe- though I can't promise this… but we might just put an end to this before the break of dawn, and then you will have her back."

"I hope so." He swallowed.

Once again, Midna held out the mirror shard for him to take. This time, he took it without hesitation and set it aside in the grass as he reached into his bag for the other three. He pulled them out one at a time, aligning them with one another, but as he reached for the last piece, a booming voice echoed through the garden. Link's head snapped up and he saw the King rushing towards them. Midna stepped aside just as the burly man barreled into Link, knocking them both down.

Link coughed from the impact of landing flat on his back and stared up at the King, who'd already gotten back on his feet. Midna chuckled, but extended her hand to help him up. After brushing himself down, he turned to see the King reaching for the mirror shards.

"Your Majesty, stop! We need those."

The King stopped and straightened his back, looking at Link in confusion. Link arched an eyebrow as he looked back at him.

"Your sword…" The King began.

"Excuse me?"

"Hand it over!" He demanded.

Link hesitated, but after a second he reached for his sword, swallowing hard as he turned the blade so that it pointed inwards. The King eyed him with stone cold, emotionless eyes and then took the blade. Link's shoulders slumped as he relaxed, though his relief was short-lived as the tip of the Master Sword's blade was placed under his chin, digging into his throat.

"Who are you?"

Link froze, looking to Midna for help, but she simply shrugged. "Are you alright, your Majesty?"

The King huffed. "I find that highly disrespectful, now answer my question!" He demanded, adjusting the blade so that it cut into his skin.

"I- it's me. Link." He stammered, feeling his heart hammering away in his chest.

"I do not know of a Link."

"What? Y- you must- I- I- I am the knight that protects your daughter!" Link claimed, taking a small step backwards.

"Daughter? I have no daughter!" The King snapped, advancing towards him.

"Your daughter, Princess Zelda."

"Nonsense! I do not know of a Link, nor do I have a daughter." The King continued to force Link back at sword point, until he was trapped against the wall. "You are but a mere trespasser, and what's more is that you gave me lies instead of truth. For that, I have no choice but to eliminate the threat that you pose…"

Midna stood wide eyed, watching Link's confused and frightened expression, not interfering due to the fear of making the situation worse. She thought hard, almost not hearing Link as he called to her.

"Midna, the mirror!" He yelled. "The shard that we found on Zelda's brush must be behind the memory loss…" He called, squinting his eyes as the blade was pressed further against his neck.

Moving fast, Midna gathered the four shards and placed them together like a jigsaw. As soon as the fourth shard was in place, the same glowing light that had almost blinded Link earlier on reappeared. The shards, now bound together, rose from the ground and drifted further into the air. Green particles of Twili magic floated through the air and soon the mirror morphed into the portal.

The King stepped back, releasing Link from the wall and his mouth fell open in horror. His grip on the Master Sword loosened and it slipped from his hand, falling into the grass between their feet.

"My word, Link… I do offer my sincerest apologies, what on earth happened?" The King offered out his hand, pulling Link away from the wall.

Link nodded. "I think it was the mirror shard hidden in Zelda's bed chambers, it was causing the memory loss… I guess it got worse and worse until we rebuilt the mirror."

"Ah, right." The King agreed. "Say erh- Are you any closer to finding her?"

"Well, with the mirror intact I'm hoping so." He smiled, biting down on his lower lip. "Please don't worry, I will bring her back if it's the last thing I do."

"I know you will, you weren't appointed as her Knight without good reason, Link." The King reminded him, patting his shoulder before heading out of the garden.

Link caught his breath before picking up the Master Sword and sheathing it. He joined Midna, who was standing near the portal waiting for him, and nodded.

"Are you ready?"

"Beyond ready." He declared.

With that being said, he took a step forward, getting closer to the portal. He looked back at Midna, who gave him a confident nod, and then took another step; entering the portal.

One final pull and the chain that she was bound by gave way, snapping. Seeing her chance while Zant's back was turned, Zelda darted across the room towards the door but stopped as the opening of a portal appeared, knocking her back. Upon noticing the changes, Zant rose from the throne that he was seated on and moved swiftly towards Zelda, gripping her arm tightly and forcing her to her feet.

"Did you really think you could escape from me, girl?" He spat, his mouth inches from her ear.

Zelda opened her mouth to speak but before she could say anything, two shadows; one average height with a masculine build, the other noticeably taller with the slender yet curved figure of a woman. She squirmed in Zant's grasp as she watched him conjure up a ball of Twili magic, and as the shadows; revealed to be Link and Midna, stepped through, she managed to break free, running towards Link and Midna. Angered, Zant aimed the ball of magic at Link and then threw it.

"Watch out!" Zelda called, and before the magic could hit him, she gave him a harsh shove, taking his place as the magic hit its target.

"NO!" Link yelled, watching in wide eyed horror as her body hit the ground.

Link hurried back over to where he'd previously been standing, dropped to his knees and pulled the Princess into his lap. In a gentle caress, he swept the fallen strands of hair out of her closed eyes, and gripped her pale face softly.

"Come on…" He whispered. "This can't be happening… Please..." His heart, once again, pounding against his ribcage. "The fight's not over yet… You have to come back to me."

With Link distracted, Midna turned her attention to Zant and glared at him as she conjured up some magic of her own.

"Enjoying that throne, Zant?" She questioned, "I would be clinging to it if I were you though, because it won't be yours for much longer!" She taunted, and then launched a spell of magic at him.

Chapter Text

Zant laughed maniacally as he caught the magic thrown at him and launched it back at Midna. The Twilight Princess ducked, dodging the spell and watching it hit the wall, bursting into nothing. She straightened her back, and looked at Zant with fury in her eyes.

"Technically, the throne never belonged to you in the first place…" She began, moving in a circular motion as Zant's eyes followed her. "All the power you hold isn't rightfully yours… You usurped it from me! Twice!"

Another ball of magic, this one larger than the one she'd thrown previously, sped towards Zant and knocked him down onto his back as it hit him. Midna looked desperately at Link, who was still cradling and trying to wake Zelda.

"Link… He can't move, now would be a good time to attack!" She called.

But her words fell upon deaf ears, and before she could attack Zant herself, the magic wore off and he had gotten back to his feet.

"I'm sorry." She whispered lower than Link could hear, then conjured up another spell, this time throwing it at him.

The magic hit Link, forcing him away from Zelda and causing him to fall on his backside, though not harming him due to the protection of the Triforce. He looked up at her with blazing eyes, then attempted to get to Zelda once more, only to be blocked by an invisible barrier.

"Midna! Whatever you've done, undo this!" He yelled.

"I can't." She sighed, biting her lip. She glanced sideways at Zant, who was simply watching in amusement at the events unfolding before him. "But it's just temporary…"

"Midna, I swear to Hylia… If you don't remove this then I-" He began, but trailed off.

"You'll what? Turn on me… After everything we've been through? Everything I've done for you?... Link, I didn't do this to be selfish, I did it because you are useless against this Usurper if you're distracted. He could easily end you, and then… Well, that would be tragic for both Hyrule and the Twili Realm."

Link's expression changed from anger to hurt, and Midna forced herself to avoid his pleading eyes, only turning as she caught a glimpse of him shakily rising to his feet. His eyes were cold, but they weren't focused on her. Instead they were locked on Zant.

"Ooh, somebody's mad… I'm quaking in my boots!" Zant mocked.

"Mad doesn't begin to cover it. You had better pray that she wakes up, because if she doesn't… there will be hell to pay."

"Ahhhh, was that a challenge?" Zant quizzed, pacing over to where Link was standing.

Link's shoulders tensed and he subtly began to reach behind his back to draw the Master Sword. He withdrew it slowly, and watched as Zant backed away.

"What's the matter?..." He questioned. "Afraid of what I can do to you?"

Zant remained silent for a few seconds and then suddenly put his fingers to his mouth and whistled. At the same time, several Shadow Beasts fell from the sky, trapping Link in the middle.

"They should keep you busy for a while." Zant commented. "Later, Hero." And with a snap of his fingers, he was gone, along with Zelda.

"NO!" Link raged.

Midna stepped forward but before she could lend a hand, Link had already sliced straight through two of the beasts with his sword. He didn't stop there. Black blood sprayed across his face as he continued to massacre the Beasts, slashing and stabbing at them and as the second to last one fell limp, he continued to hack at it with the sword.

"Link…"

Her voice, once again, went unheard as he continued slashing away. With caution, she walked up behind him.

"Link!" She said, this time more desperately.

Her attempt made no difference as he turned to the final one, slaying it with little effort and once again bludgeoning its corpse. It wasn't until the corpse burst into nothing, that he stopped. His chest heaving with breath, he gasped when he felt Midna's hand on his shoulder, and spun around; the blade of the sword missing her by mere inches.

"L- Link…" She stammered, her expression full of fear.

His darkened eyes and blood spattered face made him look almost like a completely different person. In that moment, he didn't resemble Link; the Hero of Twilight. Nor like the farm boy that he had once been. His face held no emotion, and with the state of his torn tunic and messy hair, it only added to Midna's fear.

Shock then horror flashed on his face and his shoulders slumped. A look of regret passed briefly, replaced by anger and he shrugged her hand away.

"Don't touch me!"

Midna's face fell. "Link, I- I'm sorry."

"We had him in the palm of our hands, Midna!" He stated. "And I had her back… Now he's gone, and he's taken her with him to Hylia knows where!"

"You weren't going to fight him, Link! I had to do something to put you back in action."

"Yeah?" He questioned. "Well, it looks like you've got what you wanted."

"And now you're mad at me for doing what needed to be done." She scoffed. "We can't work as a team with you in a mood with me, it won't end well."

"What did you expect to happen by doing that? That I would praise you for your methods? That I would thank you?... You did the one thing you knew would get me to fight, and now we have to find Zant, figure out what he did to Zelda and try to reverse it!"

"I won't apologize again. I was doing what had to be done."

"Good… because I don't want your apologies. I just want to take care of Zant once and for all then return home where my life can resume as normal!"

"Yeah… Home to where the entire Kingdom admires you, where you have friends and soon a family… and I'll just go back to ruling over this place, with no friends to keep good company, no family to greet every morning and evening, only followers who want me to watch over them."

"Whatever, I'm done wasting time arguing." He sighed, swallowing all the words that he'd left unsaid and moving on to find an exit to the room.

Midna closed her eyes and inhaled slowly to recompose herself. She opened them again as she exhaled and followed a short distance behind Link, only overtaking him when he led them everywhere but the exit.

"I know this place better than you, follow me."

"Fine." He said, his voice void of any emotion.

Heaving a sigh, he followed behind Midna as she led him through a door. He didn't speak as they paced down it, and nor did she. Every few minutes, she would glance behind her to ensure that they had not lost each other, but her eyes were met only with his cold glare.

"You know, sooner or later we're going to have to talk. Finding out where Zant went is going to be challenging enough without the lack of communication getting in the way." She sighed.

"Hmph." Link huffed.

"Are you serious right now? Get over yourself, Link! This is bigger than the two of us combined, so get off your high horse and work with me so that we can finally put an end to this."

"I'm not doing you any favours, Midna."

"Not for me, but for Zelda. Do it for her."

Link's expression darkened once more, and he folded his arms. "Don't!"

"Huh?"

"Don't do that… don't use her name in that way."

Planting her face in the palm of her hands, Midna ground her teeth. "I said I'm sorry, what else do you want? To crucify me?!"

"She wouldn't want this…" Link whispered.

"What?"

"None of them would."

"Link, I don't understand."

"Ilia… Zelda… Y- you… Everyone else here and in Hyrule, they wouldn't want me to be… well, the opposite of the hero."

"Y- you're not." She stammered, the corners of her mouth pulling downward. "I swear… I didn't mean to hurt you, I'm sorry."

"It's not your fault." He breathed. "It's mine."

"But I-"

"All this time I've been letting my own feelings get the best of me, and putting them in front of everything else, and there's no excuses for that… It was selfish of me." He shook his head. "No more. I'm sorry, Midna. You were right, this is much bigger than the both of us… So, if you'll forgive me then I would love to go catch that Usurper and save both our worlds with you."

Midna remained serious for a second, then broke into a giggle. "Yeah, I can forgive you… We all have moments that we're not proud of."

"Go kick some Twili butt?" He questioned with a raised eyebrow and a wry smile on his face.

"Heck yeah!... But first, come here you Goof!" She prompted.

He stepped forward and without warning, she pulled him into a hug. He stilled at first but quickly relaxed and placed his arms loosely around her waist, before stepping back with a small smile upon his face.

"Now, do you have any idea where he could have gone to?"

Thinking for a moment, Midna shook her head. "Unfortunately not, with that kind of power Zant could be anywhere in this entire Realm."

Link ran his fingers through his fair hair and closed his eyes to think of a plan. "And the magic… that hit Zelda, do you know what that was?"

"I'm afraid I do… it's nothing good, but I'm not telling you unless you promise that you won't freak out?"

"I promise."

"No, I mean it. You're not going to like it, but you can't lose your head over it."

"Okay, I know that. Please tell me."

"It's a deep slumber curse. He was trying to put you under so that no one could stop him, when she pushed you out of the way… well, that's what she was hit with."

"Huh, sounds not too bad. We should be able to break that with perhaps some reverse magic…"

"I'm afraid it's more complicated than that."

"How so?"

"There's an elixir for it, but that's kept in my old bed chambers; a room that Zant now occupies… and if the curse isn't broken within forty-eight hours then- then the person cursed will die."

Link's heart dropped as soon as the words left her lips, and he sucked in a deep breath, remaining calm. He felt his eyes burning and turned away quickly.

"Okay, so before anything else we go and get that elixir from that room. Then we find Zant, take him down and give the elixir to Zelda." He planned aloud.

"Link, are you okay?"

He swallowed hard and turned to face her, uncaring of her seeing his glossy eyes. "No, but I will be. We should keep moving though."

"Agreed. Let's not waste time, I can warp us to the room containing the elixir."

"Let's do this!" Link affirmed, clenching his fists tightly.

Chapter Text

"Here we are." Midna announced, as the two materialized in the middle of another room.

Link's eyes danced around the interior, intrigued by the differences in this room compared to the rest of the Twili Realm. Green particles still drifted through the air like dust, but the room was well lit by little white orbs that bounced off the walls. Unlike the outside, this room had a warmth to it and it created a more welcoming atmosphere.

"Well… this is far from what I expected. So, where is this elixir?"

"If my memory serves me correctly, it should be hidden in a chest beneath the bed." She explained, gesturing for him to go ahead.

Link nodded and with baited breath he walked over to the bed and lifted the grey sheets, getting on his knees and peering underneath. A fairly small chest sat in the very center, looking as though it hadn't been touched for a very long time. Without a second thought, he reached for the chest and dragged it out from beneath the bed. A thick layer of dust blanketed the surface. Blowing it away, it invaded his nostrils and sent him into a coughing fit. Once he'd recomposed himself, he ran his fingers along the metal that bound the wood together until he reached the clasp that locked it.

"Are you sure about this?" He asked, looking back over his shoulder at her.

"Yes. Almost one hundred percent sure."

"Okay." He exhaled, and unclipped the clasp.

Slowly and carefully, he lifted the lid and his eyes settled a small glass bottle that had been sealed with a rubber cork; containing a purple liquid. With a shaky hand, Link reached in and picked it up. He inspected the contents closer, holding the bottle up and shaking the bottle slightly to watch as the liquid sloshed around.

"What's in this?" He asked curiously.

Taken aback by the question, Midna arched an eyebrow. "I've never actually thought about that… Does it matter?"

"Nah, I just wondered." He dismissed. "We should probably get moving, we're running out of time."

He didn't wait for a response as he headed out of the door. They hadn't a clue where Zant was, but Link wasn't willing to sit around waiting for time to slip through their fingers; if they moved fast enough, they could find him. As they turned the corner, he came to an abrupt stop as two Shadow Beasts materialized.

Link instinctively reached for his sword, his eyes widening as the beasts came into full view. Physically, they were different to those that he'd fought before. They were noticeably bigger, with eyes that glowed crimson and razor talons at the end of their hands; if you could even call them that. He staggered back as they began to close in on him, drawing the Master Sword and pointing it at each of them.

"Uhh… Midna?"

"Don't ask. I've never seen anything like this before."

Taking note of this, Link squared his shoulders and finally took a swing with the sword, slicing through the beast that was closest to him. It screeched in pain as black blood sprayed from the fresh wound, which prompted him to make another attack. Without a second thought, he thrust the sword forward and impaled the beast through the chest. Much to his surprise, and horror, the beast barely flinched. He withdrew his sword, and looked to Midna for help as the two beasts cornered them both against the wall.

"Any chance of warping?" He questioned just before one of the beasts gripped his throat and pinned him to the wall.

Midna didn't get the chance to respond, or even attempt to use her powers as the second beast pinned her to the wall. She squirmed in its grasp, trying to think of a way to get them free.

"You have the Master Sword, Link. Surely that's a good enough weapon?"

Link writhed as the talons dug in his chest, ripping through his green tunic and slicing through his skin. He gritted his teeth to suppress a shriek, and raised the sword to strike back. The beast caught his wrist and gave it a hard jerk, forcing the sword from his grip. As Midna conjured up a large ball of magic, the beast that was pinning her to the wall lifted her into the air and tossed her aside; rendering her unconscious. Link fought against the grip of the beast that held him, but to no avail. With Midna out cold, the beast had already thrown her over its shoulder and was carrying her away. He quickly turned his attention back to the one in front of him though, as it tightened its grip around his neck.

He gave it a hard shove, forcing it backwards and attempting to reach for the Master Sword. The Shadow Beast recovered quickly, and as Link ducked for the sword, it made its attack. He cried out as he felt its talons in his back, and only just managed to grab the sword as it lifted him in the air with little effort and flung him against the wall. Raising the sword, he groaned as his body felt heavier and the slightest movement caused severe discomfort. He gritted his teeth, and thrust the sword forward again, stabbing the beast. Just like the first time, it didn't so much as flinch. Instead it shrieked in anger, grabbed hold of his dark blonde hair and yanked his head forward at an angle. He kicked at the beast with his foot, but missed as it dodged the blow.

An eruption of pain tore through Link, and it wasn't until he glanced down that he realized the cause. One of its talons had been thrust straight through him. He gasped, a raspy wheeze, and his legs buckled causing him to slide down the wall. Though his vision was reduced to a blurry haze, he glanced up at the beast, unable to move as it reached for him, and when it lifted him from the ground, the last of his consciousness slipped away.

*_*_*_*_*

Zant stood over Zelda's body that he'd discarded on the floor and chuckled. He was worried, for a while, that his plan was beginning to fall apart, but now that he'd taken her out of the equation, things were sliding back into place. He turned around at the right moment as the Shadow Beasts he'd sent after the Hero and Twilight Princess, slipped through the entrance with the two problems slung over their shoulders. They stopped a few feet short of where he stood, and dropped the bodies by his feet.

"Thank you, my loyal pets." He commended, then snapped his fingers causing them to disappear in wisps of magic.

As the last of the green particles faded, he bent down and closely inspected the bodies that laid before him. After seeing Midna unharmed, he turned his attention to Link, whose tunic was dyed crimson with blood around the chest and stomach area. He smirked at the thought of the hero in pain before begrudgingly putting two fingers to Link's forehead. In the midst of a green glow, the wound healed; not fully, but just enough to keep him from dying.

"Time to get up, Hero." Zant kicked him.

Link groaned in discomfort as he felt himself coming to. His eyes flickered open, and through blurred vision he saw Zant looming over him. His grip tightened around the sword still in his hand, but his attempt to get up was cut short by a sharp sting. He winced as the memory of being impaled came back to him, and fell back into a lying position.

"You were at full health when you beat me before, what makes you think I would make that same mistake again?" Zant taunted.

His head dropped to the side, and he saw Midna laid opposite him. With a struggle, he rolled over onto his stomach and as he looked up he saw Zelda, pale and near lifeless, laid on the floor. His expression darkened, and he felt the strong need to get up. As Zant stepped into his line of vision, blocking his view of the Princess, he inhaled deeply and put his hands to the floor, pushing himself up until he was on all fours, and with further struggle he managed to get back on his feet.

"No, Zant. The mistake you made was bringing me here and letting me live." He stated, grimacing at the fresh sting of his wounds.

"Oh no, you see… I let you live so that you could watch them die." Zant sneered, gesturing to Zelda and Midna.

Link gritted his teeth as a means to control his growing anger towards the Usurper King, and smirked. "Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you but the only one dying today is you."

Zant grinned. "Ah, that's right. You got the elixir… Then don't let me keep you, go ahead and feed it to the Princess."

A frown replaced Link's smirk and he quirked an eyebrow, untrusting of the being that stood before him. Despite his suspicions, he moved cautiously over to where Zelda was laid, and once again pulled the Princess into his lap. He looked back at Zant, who gave two flicks of his hand to signal him to get on with it, and then reached into his pocket for the elixir. Pulling out the bottle, he removed the cork that was sealing it and set it aside before putting the bottle to his nose and inhaling the scent, or rather lack of one. He glanced over his shoulder once more, weary of Zant, and then lifted Zelda's head carefully with his hand, just enough so that she wouldn't choke. Then he raised the bottle and tilted the bottom up so that the liquid slid down, opening her mouth partially with his thumb and pressing it to her lips.

Just a few feet away, Midna stirred awake as a deep voice echoed in her mind. A voice that she recognised right away as Zant's. Except he wasn't speaking aloud. This was a message that he intended for her ears only, and she received it. She bolted to her feet and closed the distance between herself and Link, swiping the bottle from his hand upon reaching him and throwing it away. It flew across the room and hit the wall, shattering to pieces and spraying the surface with the purple liquid.

"Midna, what the hell?!" Link exclaimed, staring at the spilled elixir in horror.

"He switched the bottles before we even got to the chest, Link… It wasn't the elixir, it was poison."

Link opened his mouth to speak, but Zant glided over to them before he could say a word. "Bravo, bravo, young Midna." He praised her with a few slow claps. "You managed to solve my little riddle just in the nick of time."

Midna scowled. "You're a foul excuse of a king, Zant." She snapped.

Carefully laying the Princess back down, Link got to his feet, clutching the Master Sword with white knuckles, and advanced towards Zant. His eyes were once again dark and his stare was intense enough to bore holes.

"The real elixir… Where is it?" He questioned, pointing the sword at Zant.

Zant laughed maniacally. "You really think that I would tell you when you have the intent of taking my throne away… Foolish Hylian."

"No, I never expected that you would… Either way you're going to lose the throne. See, I don't need you to tell me. I can find it myself after you crumble to a pile of dust."

"How bold of you to assume… Ah, but that's why I brought you here."

Link lowered the sword slightly and tilted his head to the side. "What?"

"I knew you'd not stop until you ruined my plans, so I had my beasts bring you to me before that could happen, and now… I challenge you, Hero of Twilight." Zant smirked. "We will fight, and if you win then I shall step down and give you the elixir, and disappear from your lives forever."

"And if you win?" Link prompted.

"If I win, I destroy the portal and you along with the Princesses will serve me for eternity."

Link contemplated this, thinking over a thousand different outcomes. Though he knew that it came down to only two. A wry smile twitched at his lips and he raised the Master Sword.

"Challenge accepted."

Chapter Text

Link stood tall with his shield raised and the Master Sword at the ready. His eyes were locked on Zant, who was standing a few feet in front of him, staring back at him. To their right, Midna stood by the entrance. Due to Zant's rules, she was unable to aid Link, or interfere in the fight at all. The only thing she could do was stand by and keep a watchful eye on Zelda's condition to ensure that time wasn't wearing thin. Her skin had already paled, and Midna knew that in just a few short hours it would take on a grey tint and only minutes later, her heart would stop beating. She shook the thought from her mind when her eyes caught Link's as he looked back at her for signs of reassurance. She nodded and gave him a small smile, and he turned back to Zant.

"Are you prepared to fight?" Zant questioned.

"Beyond." Link smirked. "Bring it!"

Link shifted his stance, placing his feet apart and squaring his shoulders. He kept his shield raised despite the stillness of Zant. The Usurper King clapped his hands together as an eerie grin spread across his face. Midna's eyes widened as the realization of what he was doing dawned on her. Link should know too, since it was nothing dissimilar to his actions when they'd faced him the first time around.

Zant stopped clapping suddenly, and then he laughed, jumping up and down like an excited child being promised ice cream. He soon stopped that as well, and Link rolled his eyes at the child-like behaviour. Having done all that, Zant dropped his arms by his side and produced two knives from his baggy sleeves, and without warning he started spinning rapidly towards Link.

With his shield raised, he jutted it forward as Zant neared him, causing the Usurper King to crash into it and stagger backwards. Link raised his sword and made his first attack, but as the sword clashed with the stone ground, sparks from the sword flew. He gasped, realizing that Zant had disappeared and searching the room frantically, just waiting for him to reappear.

Zant materialized behind Link, and used the opportunity to perform an attack; with his back turned, the Usurper King made a vertical slash at his back. Link gritted his teeth and pushed through the pain. He could feel warm, sticky blood trickling down his back, but didn't stop to check. He spun around before Zant could teleport again and made a stab with his sword, plunging it into Zant's arm. The Usurper King cried out before vanishing from sight once again.

Link turned once more, unwilling to make the same mistake a second time, just as Zant materialized. This time, the Usurper King had grown in size, and towered over Link. He levitated in the air, the ribbons attached to his sleeves grazing the ground, and the silver helmet with intricate engravings now hiding his face. Link whipped out his bow and quickly shot an arrow at Zant that stabbed his leg. He let out a high pitched shriek, grabbing hold of his injured leg and whimpering as he struggled to dig the arrow out. Using the opportunity, Link put another arrow to his bow and this time aimed it at the metal helmet, hoping to damage it enough to break it and expose his cat-like face.

The arrow flew and struck its target, creating a small crack in the top of the helmet, also dizzying Zant in the process, causing him to shrink back to his usual size. Gripping the Master Sword tightly, Link hacked away at Zant as much as he could until the Usurper King vanished before his eyes. He reappeared in seconds, standing a short distance away and laughed his maniacal laugh before clapping his hands together even more rapidly than the first time. The knives reappeared from his sleeves and started to spin, moving forward.

Link rolled out of the way and jumped back to his feet, spinning around and performing a horizontal slash on Zant, creating a flesh wound on his arm. The Usurper King screeched and flung both his arms without care for his surroundings. Red and black particles swirled behind him, forming a sinister looking Twili wall.

The walls of the room faded away before Link's eyes, and were instantly replaced by the outside of the Twili Palace. Neither Midna nor Zelda were anywhere to be seen, though he was used to this old trick and it ignited no panic within him. He exhaled slowly and shot an arrow at Zant, who had exposed his chest while flinging his arms. The arrow struck Zant in the chest, causing him to drop to the ground, and Link ran over to him quickly, once again hacking with all his might at the Usurper King.

Zant wept in a high pitch and Link arched an eyebrow, retracting the sword for a split second. A move that he instantly regretted as Zant stood back up, and sent dozens of conjured up magic flying towards him. He ducked as one flew over his head, missing him by a millisecond and dodged over to the right as another flew past him. Narrowly avoiding the two, he was left with no time as a third was hurled towards him, hitting him as he neared the edge of this particular shred of land.

Link felt his chest tighten and found himself unable to feel the air in his lungs. Breathing became a challenge, and he watched dizzily as Zant produced his swords once more and started spinning towards him. He felt the sharp blades cutting into him several times until he was forced to his knees, and he raised his sword, only for Zant to disappear right before his eyes. The Usurper King reappeared quickly, and as he swung his arms, their surroundings were once again changed, and they were back at the top of the tower.

The magic that Link had been hit with began to wear off, and it became easier to breathe again. With several injuries, ranging from minor cuts to major ones, he rose back to his feet. Zant sent more red balls of Twili magic at him, but this time he was prepared and raised his shield. The Twili magic ricocheted and struck the Usurper King, who now found himself a victim of his own spell and became encased in a block of ice. Link took out his bow and, walking over to one of the torches that lit the room, created a flaming arrow which he aimed and fired at Zant. The ice melted quickly, but the flames spread quickly to Zant's black priest-like robe. He screamed, a shrill sound that caused both Link and Midna to screw their faces up as it pierced through their ears, and then hopped around the room, frantically trying to put the flame out.

"Oh, Zant… Feeling a little hot, are you?" He smirked.

Link chuckled and readied his sword as Zant conjured up another ball of Twili magic and unleashed it on himself, snuffing out the flames and leaving only embers as evidence. Once again, Zant resorted to his spin attack and Link, rather than running or using his shield, charged towards the Usurper King with as much speed as his injuries would allow, causing the two to collide.

Midna gasped, Link yelled and Zant laughed as the Hero of Twilight and the Usurper King tumbled to the ground, sending a small crack through the concrete. Link landed up on top, pinning Zant to the ground with one of his knees firmly on Zant's midsection and his sword pointed at his throat.

"This has been fun and all, but I really don't have any more time for this." Link stated, pushing the tip of the blade against the pale blue skin of Zant's neck. "Where is the elixir?"

Zant simply laughed, despite the sword at his throat. "You didn't actually believe that I would give it to you if you won, or that I would actually let you live, did you?"

Link's eyes narrowed and his lips pulled together in a tight line before he spoke. "No, Zant. Did you really think that I was going to let you live?"

He gave the Usurper King no chance to answer the question. "Tell me now or die." He demanded. "It's your choice."

"Ah, but if I die, you'll never find the elixir and then the Princess dies along with me."

Link gritted his teeth as his patience wore thin. "We don't need you. I can find it. I will find it." He swore.

"You might find it… though I doubt that you'll find it in time."

"Then I guess, I had better not waste any more."

With those words being said, Link raised the Master Sword, with the blade pointing downwards, and then plunged it into Zant's chest, piercing him through the heart. His body convulsed and jerked violently as Link removed the blade and sheathed it, but before the body could disappear, he reached inside the robe. His fingers grazed against a bottle, and he pulled it out without hesitation just as Zant's body turned into red, black and green particles, floating through the air, getting higher and higher until they were invisible.

Link breathed a hefty sigh, relieved that the fight was over, and falling back into a sitting position due to exhaustion. Midna sauntered over to where he was sitting, a dopey smile on her face.

"You- You did it." She gasped.

He shook his head. "We did it." He almost laughed, wincing from the pain that the movement caused.

"You're injured." Midna's face twisted in concern.

"I'll be fine." He assured her through gritted teeth. "Same pain, different day." He exhaled.

"Shouldn't you at least see a doctor?"

"There's no time. Really, Midna. I'm okay, I can wait." He insisted. "We need to get this elixir down Zelda."

Thinking it over, Midna smiled reluctantly. "Alright."

Link returned a small smile before shuffling over to where Zelda was laid. By now her pale face had taken on the grey tint of death, and he knew just by looking at her that her heart had slowed. They hadn't much time left. He lifted the Princess into his lap, holding her in a sitting position as he removed the cork that sealed the bottle and pressed it to her lips. He took one last look at Midna.

"Are you sure about this?"

"Yes, Link. Do it. Now."

He nodded and turned his attention back to Zelda, tilting the bottom of the bottle upwards and watching as the liquid flowed into her mouth. As the last few drops slipped from the bottle, he placed it aside and waited in anticipation for her to awaken.

"H-how long does it take to work?" He asked with his eyebrow raised, desperately waiting for her skin to return to its usual pale, yet rosy complexion.

Midna tried her best to keep the smile on her face, and not show Link her anxiety. The last time that she had seen something like this, the person had awoken as soon as the elixir slid down their throat. She didn't know how to answer Link's question without scaring him.

When she didn't answer within a few seconds, he looked over his shoulder at her. "Midna?"

"Well, I-" She began, unable to think of something to say. "I'm afraid I don't know."

"But I thought that you knew for certain that the elixir would work. You said-"

"I said that I was almost certain, but I've never seen it being given to a Hylian, Link."

"Wait, what?" He questioned, his eyes now wide with concern.

"The last time I saw this was with a Twili being…"

"And what happened?"

"Link-"

"Tell me. Please." He pleaded.

"There really isn't that much to tell. They consumed the elixir and then they woke up."

"How long?"

"Instantly."

Link swallowed the lump in his throat and bit down hard on his bottom lip. He turned his attention back to Zelda, who remained limp in his arms with the grey tint lingering. He brought a shaking hand up to her face and rested his forehead against hers.

"Please…" He begged. "Come back to me."

Chapter Text

More time had passed with the elixir not taking effect, and Link was beginning to fear the worst. Midna could only watch as rocked back and forth, with Zelda still in his arms. She was afraid that there wasn't a thing she could say that would help.

"It's been too long, why isn't she waking up?" Link questioned, desperation laced in his voice.

"I don't know." Midna sighed. "Look, maybe we should get her- you both - back to the castle and get your wounds cleaned up while we wait for her to wake up." She suggested.

"No." Link snapped. "Sorry, I just… I don't want to be anywhere but by her side right now." He sighed.

"I understand." She nodded.

Link held his breath as he put a hand to Zelda's chest, desperate to find a heartbeat. He felt as though his own dropped suddenly as there was no steady rhythm of her heart, not even the slightest beat. Absolutely terrified, he removed his hand and looked to Midna with tearful eyes.

"T- the elixir… It- It didn’t work." He stammered.

Midna's heart began to hurt. She had unintentionally given him false hope, and led him to believe that everything would be okay, and now that it wasn't, she felt awful.

"Link, I'm sorry… I didn't think this would happen, I really believed that it would work."

He squinted his eyes shut, causing tears to roll down both his cheeks. "I- I don't understand, why didn't it work?"

"I don't know." Midna bit her lip, watching as Link's own trembled and he clung to Zelda. "Do you want a moment before we get you and the Princess back to Hyrule?"

He nodded, unable to find the words to speak and Midna inhaled deeply as she stepped out of the room. Finally alone, Link didn't care to hide his feelings and gave in; those few tears turning into sobs. After everything they'd been through over the past few days, he had failed her just as he had failed Ilia. Though everyone still referred to him as the Hero, he felt like nothing could be further from the truth. They would not refer to him as such when news broke of his failure.

"I- I'm so sorry. I tried so hard, but even my best was still not good enough." He cried, gritting his teeth. "Grrrgghhh, I did everything I was supposed to do… So, why couldn't I save you?"

Link squinted once more, and slowly his eyes darkened as they drifted from Zelda's face to the Master Sword and back again. His rant could go on, but it did no good, so there was no point. All the words in the world couldn't fix his failure. He sniveled and found himself reaching for the sword despite the voice of reason screaming in his mind. With tired and almost emotionless eyes, he admired the detail of the sword; everything from the blue handle with the Triforce symbol, to the stunning blade that still looked unused despite its many hits. He exhaled sharply, contemplating the damage the sword could do, and if it could cause any to himself. For a brief second, the thought of finding out didn't seem so bad, and he lifted the sword, closing his eyes at the same time.

The exact second that he closed them and aligned the blade with his already wounded chest,a golden light illuminated his face. His eyes shot open, and he dropped the sword to bring his hand up and shield his eyes. Despite the blinding volume of the light, he couldn’t help but watch it. Only then did he realize where it had come from; the Triforce symbol on his hand. With it, he noticed that the exact same symbol on Zelda's hand was also glowing, and that the light was flowing from his to hers. He remained silent as he watched it in astonishment, and was left with his mouth agape as it finally faded.

As he stared on in shock, he did not notice Zelda's pale yet rosy colour return to her face, replacing the deathly grey. Her eyes flickered open slowly, and as her vision cleared up, she saw him hovering above her.

"L- Link?"

Upon hearing her voice, he glanced down and his face lit up as he saw her eyes open. A wide smile spread across his face and he exhaled a hefty breath that came out as a hysteric sounding laugh.

"P- Princess? I thought that- I thought-" He stammered, unable to finish.

Zelda frowned, unable to grasp what was happening, but as the memories came flooding back in, she gasped. "Link, it's okay."

"I thought that I had lost you. That I had failed." He finished, his head hanging in shame.

Her mouth opened to speak, but she couldn't find the right words. Instead of attempting to say anything, she pulled herself into a proper sitting position and then threw her arms around him. His eyes widened before closing as he hugged her back, resting his head on her shoulder. It was then that she finally found the words.

"You didn't fail, and I never doubted you for a second."

After a few seconds, Link reluctantly pulled away, but kept his hands on her arms. "Why not?"

"Because even when all hope is lost, you keep myself and the rest of Hyrule hoping." She spoke softly. "You hold the Triforce of Courage for a reason, Link."

Link moved his hand, flexing his fingers and examining the Triforce symbol on the back of his left hand. "I- I guess you're right."

Zelda placed her own hand with the Triforce on top of his and gave it a gentle squeeze. "We should get home now…" She began, pausing as she took in the state of him. "You have many injuries that should be treated as soon as possible."

"I'm okay, I really don't think that's necessary."

The Princess scowled. "You are not fine, Link. You need to look after yourself."

"Really, Zelda… I'm okay."

"I know that you don't like attention, but just do it this one time. Please." She pleaded. "For me."

He sighed. "Alright, but first let's get back to Hyrule." He agreed, watching as she got to her feet.

With difficulty, he got back on his feet and instantly staggered forward, causing Zelda to move quickly to stop him from falling on his face. Placing her hand on his chest, she carefully moved his arm so that it was around her shoulders, insisting on helping him stay steady. They sauntered towards the exit in silence until they regrouped with Midna, who smiled as Zelda appeared along with Link.

"Oh my-" She began, but was cut off quickly.

"It's a long story, I'll try to explain later but for now could you help get us to the mirror?" Zelda questioned. "I'm afraid that without medical attention, his condition may worsen."

Midna bowed her head, "Of course." and grabbed hold of Link from his other side.

Within a few seconds, the three were enveloped in Twili magic before disappearing into green and particles, materializing back at the bottom of the tower, where the mirror portal was still intact. Zelda turned her head to look at Midna, with one question on her mind.

"Sorry to ask, but will you be joining us?"

Caught off guard by the question, Midna pondered the thought for a moment. "I don't think I'll be able to focus on this place until I know that you both are safe and well… Yes, I will join you for a bit."

Zelda smiled. "I appreciate that, actually. I could use the help."

Midna returned the smile, and gestured for Zelda to take Link through first. The Princess shifted her feet, also shifting Link's weight at the same time, then stepped through the portal with him; disappearing instantly. Midna waited a second before following them.

*_*_*_*_*

Stepping out on the other side of the portal, Zelda suppressed a gasp at the sight of her garden. It had been a long time since she'd seen such a beautiful sight, and it made her realize just how much she'd missed her home, and her people. Before she could process the thought, Midna stepped out of the portal and glanced around the garden that had maintained its glory despite being used as a construction ground for the mirror.

"Midna, would you mind staying with Link while I go and find Impaz or anyone who can help?" Zelda asked, growing concerned for Link's condition as his head hung heavy against his chest.

"Of course." She agreed.

"Thank you." Zelda nodded, laying Link down gently in the grass and planting a kiss on his cheek. "I'll be back soon, I promise." She whispered in his ear before standing up straight and hurrying out of the garden.

Midna waited until she'd disappeared from sight before propping herself down next to Link and winced as her eyes glided over his injuries. The bleeding had slowed for the majority of them, yet the worst one had not stopped. She glanced up to see his eyes barely open, and knew that she had to do something; if he closed them then he may never wake up.

"Y- you did great out there, Link." She spoke softly, hoping that the sudden sound of her voice would ground him.

She watched as his eyes opened just a tad wider, and he attempted to shift into a sitting position only to scrunch his face up and fall flat onto his back. He made a choking sound, but his eyes remained open.

"We." He wheezed.

"Huh?"

"We did…" He began, breathing heavily. "We did great." Then his face fell as Ilia flashed briefly in his mind. "For the most part."

"I'm sorry, Link. I wish that we could have saved her." Midna expressed as though she had read his thoughts.

Link sighed, his eyes drooping once more. "So tired."

"I know, but don't fall asleep, okay? You can't fall asleep."

A sloppy smile etched its way onto his lips. "I'm okay, the other guy got it worse."

Midna snorted and failed to suppress a laugh at the obvious humour behind his words. She rolled her eyes and gave him a gentle nudge.

"But it wasn't really a fair match, was it?"

"What do you mean by that?" He questioned, forcing himself into a sitting position.

"Well… I- I just mean that Zant didn't really have much of a brain nor brawn." She explained, placing her arm around his shoulders to prevent him from falling again.

Link laughed through his nose, leaning into her as his weight became too heavy. "You've got that right, like was the guy trying to fight me or dance with me?" He chuckled, screwing his face up as the sound irritated his wounds.

"Easy there, tough guy. Let's not excite you too much." She joked. "But, he did look very silly flinging his arms around like spaghetti."

"Worst looking spaghetti I've seen." He added, and they both laughed together.

Meanwhile, Zelda held onto the skirt of her dress as she hurried through the halls, dodging the rubble that covered the ground as she ran. She turned corners and fled through, then up the staircase until she found the one room that she was looking for, and pounded on it with her fist.

"Impaz." She called out. "Impaz!" She called louder when she got no response.

The shuffling of feet on the other side was followed by the door swinging open and Impaz jaw dropping as she saw the Princess standing before her. As she took in the frown on her face, and the pleading in her eyes, she grew concerned.

"My dear, what on earth is all the fuss about?"

"Link is injured, Impaz and I'm afraid that without any treatment, his injuries may worsen."

Impaz made an O shape with her mouth and stepped out of her room, closing the door behind her. "Then we had better go to him right away."

"Thank you! I'll lead the way." Zelda stated, already halfway down the hall.

Impaz followed quickly, catching up with the Princess. As they passed the throne room, Zelda paused and turned to her.

"What happened here?... It just- it looks so broken."

"A lot took place while you were in the Twili Realm." Impaz said gently. "The entire population of Castle Town had their memories wiped; though that seems to have been corrected when the mirror was rebuilt. Though Zant unleashed his beasts onto Link and Midna, and the fight resulted in the mess you see before you."

Zelda's face fell at the thought of all the things that she hadn’t been able to protect her people from, but she quickly brushed her feelings aside and continued past the throne room.

"First thing to do once Link is well, is to make preparations for repairs." She thought aloud.

"I'll speak to your father as soon as we get Link in recovery."

Their conversation ceased as they entered Zelda's garden, where Link was now sitting up, leaning against Midna to support his weight. Zelda hurried over, dropping to her knees by Link's other side as Impaz walked calmly over to the three of them to inspect him closely.

"Hmm, yes these wounds are rather deep. Before treatment, we should get him somewhere more comfortable." Impaz concluded. "Ladies, would you be able to move him to the guest room just down the hall?"

Midna and Zelda looked at one another and nodded at each other. "Absolutely." They chimed, and Midna got Link to his feet, allowing Zelda to position herself so that his weight was even between them.

Impaz stepped aside to allow them through, and followed behind as they made their way down the hall and into the guest bedroom that she'd been referring to; laying him down carefully on the bed and removing his boots and hat after getting him settled.

"Now, if you don't mind stepping out for a moment… It's easier to focus without an audience." She said with a small smile.

Zelda looked towards Link, then opened her mouth to speak before Midna cut in. "He'll be okay. The sooner he's treated, the better."

"Yeah, you're right." The Princess shook her head and turned back to Impaz. "You'll let me know as soon as it is done?"

"Of course.' Impaz promised.

Zelda nodded and then joined Midna, who'd already moved towards the exit and the two filtered out of the room, returning to the garden to wait for news. As they sat down together, under the shade of the tree, Zelda smiled at the Twilight Princess.

Upon noticing this, Midna became flustered. "W- what is it?"

"Nothing really…" Zelda bit her tongue. "Thank you." She finally blurted out.

Midna's expression changed and her eyes softened as she took those words to heart. "What for?"

"Everything that you have done; for Link, for Hyrule and even myself. You guided him along the way, and kept him from going off the rails. I truly appreciate it."

"Oh." Midna smiled back. "Y- you're welcome…"

Picking up on the shift of her tone, Zelda cringed. "I'm sorry, did I say something wrong?"

"No. No. Not at all…. I've just never had a friend thank me before, or- or any friends for that matter. You and Link are the closest I've come to finding any, and now that everything is over-" She paused, inhaling a deep breath. "I don't know if I can say goodbye again." She finished, exhaling.

Zelda let this fact sink in; Hyrule was safe. The Twili Realm was safe. Link, herself and everyone else was safe and together. But Midna… Once she returned, she would be safe yet all alone. A wave of guilt washed over her as she thought about everything that she had that Midna didn't.

"Hmm…" She hummed. "Maybe you don't have to."

"But once we know Link is okay, it is what is right…"

"I guess." Zelda muttered. "What if we didn't have to destroy the mirror?" She questioned.

"We have to-"

"Not really. I could seal it here in the garden, and I could use magic to hide it from the human eye."

"Are you sure? I mean, you don't want to ruin your beautiful garden."

Zelda's smile grew. "My garden doesn't mean as much to me as Link and my friends do, and you, Midna, are my friend."

"Well… Only if you're sure."

"I am." Zelda confirmed.

About an hour passed with the two sitting in the garden making conversation until Impaz finally appeared in the entryway. Zelda got up from where she was sitting and walked over to her, expecting her to speak.

"How is he?"

"He is much better. All of his wounds have been seen to and should heal within the next few days. He's currently awake and asking for you… I tried to convince him to rest but he's stubborn and won't rest until he speaks to you."

"I should go and convince him to rest." Zelda nodded.

"Please do. He keeps trying to get out of bed."

With this in mind, Zelda returned quickly to the guest room that they'd carried him too earlier. She reached for the handle before pausing to knock. As soon as she heard him speak, she opened the door and ventured into the room, sitting down on the side of the bed beside his waist.

"Impaz said that you are not resting."

Link chuckled. "I- I wanted to see you first."

"It's not funny! You're a naughty boy. But, since you saved the entire Kingdom again, I'm going to give you five minutes and then I will leave because I want you to rest."

Cutting his laughter out to avoid annoying her further, he frowned as he thought about the question that he wanted to ask her. They hadn't had the chance to speak properly yet, and he didn't want to rest without knowing her answer first.

"Five minutes is enough." He decided. "And the reason why I requested to see you now is because I have to ask you something."

Zelda raised an eyebrow as her mind wandered. "Please, continue."

Link swallowed his nerves and locked his eyes on hers before taking her dainty hand into his own. "Before I ask though, I have to tell you something." He admitted. "All I ask is that you don't get mad at me."

"Even if I were to get mad, I could never stay mad at you." She informed him. "Now, please tell me."

"Look, I promise that I didn't mean to do this… it sort of just happened. Midna and I were in your room while searching for a makeshift weapon and it was kinda just there-"

"Link, you're rambling."

"Sorry." He muttered. "The thing is that I- I read your diary."

Zelda froze, unsure if she'd heard him correctly. She attempted to speak, but couldn't quite grasp what he'd said. At last, her eyebrows pulled together, creating a v shape in between. "W-what?"

"I read your diary. Not all of it, just a few pages really. Even still, I'm aware that it was wrong, and I'm sorry."

"Yes, I heard you. I just- I don't know what to say."

"Are you mad?" He questioned.

"A little." She admitted. "I don't understand why you would do such a thing."

"It- It was on the floor and it was open, and I saw a glimpse of something and I couldn't help but read the passage."

Zelda hung her head. She felt many things coursing through her, but couldn't seem to settle upon one feeling. It came as a great shock to learn that Link would risk breaching her trust, yet she couldn't bring herself to be angry without knowing the full story.

"Please say something." He begged, his voice laced with guilt and worry.

"W- What did you see?" She asked. "That was so interesting that you would do such a thing." She added.

"I-" He sighed. "I saw your entry from about two weeks ago… Is there something you need to tell me?"

It was then that everything fell into place. She realized exactly what it was that he had seen and she knew that she owed him the truth. She lifted her head and met his eyes once more.

"Oh. That." She half whispered. "Listen, I was going to tell you the night that you came to my room, the night that… that everything happened." She explained. "Obviously, I didn't get that chance and now… you've seen it already." She finished with tears brimming her eyes.

"Zelda, I'm sorry." He apologized. "It was wrong of me to snoop."

"No, I- I understand." She cried.

"But I don't- I don't want to make you cry." He said, his face long as his lips twitched downward.

"I'm not crying because you read it, Link."

"Then, why are you crying?"

"Because I wanted to tell you. I didn't want you to find out via words in a stupid diary."

Link heaved a big sigh of relief, but his expression didn't change as he realized how much this had disappointed her. His eyes were growing heavy, and he knew he could not fight sleep much longer.

"It-" He began breaking off as a yawn escaped him. "It doesn't matter… At least, not to me." He continued. "I'll admit, I was afraid at first… but I'm not now."

"Really?"

He nodded. "Actually, I'm rather excited for our future, now that I've taken care of the threat." He confessed.

Much to his relief, she smiled. Though it quickly faded as she saw his eyes getting heavier. She stood up, ready to leave only for him to tighten his grip on her hand and stop her.

"Please…" He pleaded. "Stay."

"You need to rest." She insisted.

"Then… lay with me?"

Zelda bit back another smile and turned around once more, watching as he shuffled over and patted the empty space he'd just made. She rolled her eyes at her lack of ability to refuse him, and then slipped off her shoes before sitting back down on the bed and laying down, resting her head in the space between his chest and armpit. After getting herself comfortable, she yawned and closed her eyes; also exhausted after everything they'd been through. Without bothering to open them, she leaned up and brushed her lips and against his in a kiss.

"I love you, Link." She whispered as she allowed sleep to take over her.

"I love you too, Princess." He whispered back, his head falling to the side, resting against the top of hers.

Chapter Text

Link, clad in royal blue garments, stared out down the aisle as he waited expectantly with a huge smile on his face. He glanced briefly to the side, nodding at Midna, who had nodded at him first. His eyes drifted from her to Impaz, who was sitting in the next seat on the row. She gave him a firm but gentle smile that he returned before looking on down the rest of the row. He turned his attention to the other side, where all the folks from Castle Town and his friends from Ordon Village were seated. In the front row were the village children; Beth, Malo and Colin, and at the very end there was an empty seat. For Ilia.

It had been discussed with Zelda while they were making preparations for the wedding and in the middle of repairing the throne room. She was just as heartbroken as he, when he'd broken the news of Ilia's death to her. Though she was more upset for him, since she knew how much his childhood friend had meant to him.

A small melody began to play, coming from the young musician, seated to the right, who was playing an Ocarina of navy blue colours. This was cue, and with awe filled eyes, he looked back down the aisle just in time to see Zelda appear. She was clad in a white gown with the design of lilac flowers decorating the skirt, and in her hand was a bouquet of flowers that ranged in size and colour. He let out a breath through his mouth as she, along with the King, moved down the aisle towards him.

Excitement and nerves bubbled in his chest, and he blinked as his eyes met hers when they stopped just inches in front of him. He looked from her to the King, who had a serious look on his face with his mouth in a tight line. Without a word, he offered out Zelda's hand to Link, who took it and helped her up the few small steps.

Their eyes never left one another as the ceremony finally began. They both listened as the Castle Town priest spoke of love, truth and honesty, and most importantly the promises that they would be making to the Goddess Hylia, and eventually it was time for them to make their vows.

"Master Link, do you-" The priest began only for a loud yell to interrupt him.

Link, Zelda and all of the seated guests turned their heads to see the local postman running across the land, towards the ceremony. Link planted his face in the palm of his hand, unbelieving of the incredibly bad timing.

"LINNNNNKKKKKK!"

As the postman neared, Link turned to Zelda with an apologetic look on his face, which she returned with a little laugh and gestured for him to address the man.

"Can this wait?" He asked, knowing that he sounded rude, but not caring.

"I came by to give you your mail."

"Look, I don't mean to be rude but I am kinda in the middle of something. Now, if you could please leave it in my room in the Castle, that would be great."

"Yes! Yes! Of course…" The postman agreed, and scuttled away before anymore could be said.

With a sigh, Link turned his attention back to Zelda. "Please, continue."

"Very well… We got most of it out of the way, so there's only one thing that remains. "Master Link, you do take her Highness, Princess Zelda of Hyrule, to be your wife?"

His eyes softened, and the warm smile returned to his face. "I do."

"And your Highness, Princess Zelda, do you take Master Link to be your husband?"

"I do."

"Fantastic. Master Link, you may now kiss the bride."

Link stepped forward and brought his hands up to cup Zelda's face as he closed the gap between them and kissed her. The exact second that their lips met, all the guests erupted into loud cheers. As they broke the kiss, Link took her hand and raised it in the air with his own as they descended the few steps together and walked back up the aisle away from all of the clapping and cheering guests.

*_*_*_*_*

Unable to sleep, Zelda threw back the covers and slipped quietly from the bed, being careful not to wake Link in the process. Once she'd stood up without moving too much, she slipped her feet into a pair of white slippers and tiptoed quietly out of the room and a little way down the hall until she reached the small balcony that overlooked the silent Castle Town.

She rested her elbows on the stone barrier and her head in her hands, blinking as she looked out at the idle town. Many thoughts were racing through her mind that it was impossible to process them all. Instead, she focused on one.

The future.

It was impossible to change the past, and although she felt incredibly guilty for not being able to protect her people and for what had happened to Link's childhood friend, she knew that there was no use in wallowing over it.

Hearing the sound of footsteps, she gasped and spun around almost too quickly, unable to make out who was approaching due to the dim lighting that cast shadows all around.

"Forgive me, I did not intend to frighten you."

She breathed a sigh of relief as the voice gave it away instantly before Link stepped into her line of vision. She bit her lip as he approached where she was standing, and looked out over the sleepy town.

"No worries, I'm sorry if I woke you. I could not sleep, so I came out here to think for a bit." She spoke softly.

"You didn't. I woke up a few minutes ago and I came to look for you when I saw you weren't next to me." He explained, biting his lip. "What are you thinking about?" He asked curiously.

"Lots of things." She answered vaguely.

Link chuckled. "Like?"

"Oh. I don't know…" She began, and turned to him with doleful eyes. "Us."

"Care to share?" He questioned, positioning himself behind her and wrapping his arms around her waist with his head resting on her shoulder.

She closed her eyes and smiled. "You know, just us. You and me, and the future."

"Heh." He hummed. "Actually, speaking of the future, do you wanna know what I see?"

Zelda nodded, placing her arms on top of his and staring out at Castle Town once more.

"I see us together. All of us. You and me. Our son-" He paused, taking in her expression. "-or daughter." He added, knowing that look. "Running around the Kingdom, causing havoc just as I, myself, used to."

He watched with a smile as that earned a small laugh from Zelda, and then continued. "I see them growing up in a home filled with love; knowing not of malice nor pain."

"That…" She began. "Sounds like a dream."

"Oh, it is a dream."

"Yeah?"

"My dream."