Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The clang of metal on metal rings through the air, piercing the eardrums of any bystanders watching the graceful display of faux battle. Two valiant knights, the best of the best, train in the amber glow of the setting sun with their shadows following behind them. Hyrule Castle looms in the background, it's elegant form now taking the shape of a silhouette, the evening light bending around its peaks and towers ever so gently.

"Why are you so sluggish Link? We still have plenty of time to train before the sun sets." You question with lack of breath, letting your sword rest at your side while you await a reply.

   Link wipes the sweat from his brow with the hem of his tunic, panting heavily from the intense training session. Usually his stamina would last longer, but he was running late to the meeting this morning and happened to entirely forget to eat breakfast- his absolute favorite meal of the day.

"I'm extremely hungry. Can't really perform well with an empty stomach." He grins sheepishly.

You only roll your eyes.

"I should've known. Sometimes it's hard to believe you really defeated the bane of darkness and evil."

Link lifts a brow questioningly.

  "You quite literally have a first hand account of the battle." He sheathes his sword and crosses his arms with a playful smirk. "Besides- I'll have you know I was starving during that entire thing."

   You mirror his stance in a mocking gesture knowing plain well it frustrates him to no end.
"So why is it bothering you so much now Hero?"

He closes his eyes and takes an obnoxious sniff of the air, sighing blissfully at the scent.

"Because- I can smell the delicacies in the dining hall from here. I think the kitchen made meatloaf tonight." Link practically drools at the thought.

"Are you sure that isn't your shirt you're smelling?" You quip wittily, a playful twinkle in your eye.

Link wastes no time delivering a swift, albeit soft, punch to your shoulder, and you can't help but laugh at the dry expression on his face.

"Not funny." He deadpans before he begins walking along the dirt path that leads to the castle.

"It was actually very funny and you know it, Hero." You chuckle as you catch up to him.
Link side eyes you with a teasing look.

"Why do you call me that?" He questions after a short moment of silence.

You lift a brow. "Hero?"

"Yeah that. Why do you call me that?"

Your once playful expression melts into a soft smile.

   Even though Link had taken down Ganon 2 years ago, he still doesn't believe himself worthy to be called a Hero. Let alone the Hero of Hyrule. He still thinks it was all his fault in the first place, and it hurts your heart so much to see him think that way about himself. He's the bravest, most selfless and intelligent man you have ever met. He would gladly lay his life down for a stranger rather than keeping himself safe.

This world doesn't deserve him.

"Because Link- you are a Hero." You reply sweetly.

Link looks at you incredulously, as if he can't believe what you're saying.

He shakes his head. "You seem to forget that you were there too Y/N. If it weren't for your incredible archery skills- we would have lost. So if anyone is a hero- it's you."

   A crimson blush rises on your face, but you ignore the compliment as usual. Instead you look down and focus on a pebble, kicking it as you both saunter down the path. You walk in silence the rest of the way, finding it comfortable as always.

Just as you are about to walk up the steps into the knights quarters- you step in front of Link, holding your hand out to him.

"What is this?" He asks with a narrow of his eyes and a crooked smile.

"It's a truce." You say, moving your hand closer to him to emphasize.

"Why?"

   You smile shyly. "Because I know you will never believe in yourself the way I believe in you- and I will never believe in myself the way you believe in me... so I'm calling a truce. We will both stay unbelievers, but we will always be there to support the other."

Links eyes soften. How can she be so pure and innocent after everything I have put her through?

He gently grasps your hand, his eyes never leaving yours, and gives it a firm shake.

"Deal."

Your smile widens, and you both stand there for a moment, just gazing back at each other like nothing else exists.

Link is the first to notice due to the warm flutter in his chest, and he quickly removes his hand, that same fist curling up to cover an awkward cough.

"Well- uh- we should head up to the dining hall." You suggest abruptly, suddenly becoming painfully aware of the strange moment you just had.

"Yeah- yeah. You're right." Link confirms as he rubs his neck in uncomfort.

   You aren't a fan of the embarrassing atmosphere you have created for yourselves, so you come up with a sly, childish idea to remove the unpleasant tension.

In a flash, you dart up the stairs, leaving Link a couple feet behind. You always were pretty quick on your feet.

"Last one to the dining hall is a rotten egg!" You shout as you reach the top, smirking wickedly knowing you already have a head start.

   Link scoffs, "How old are you?!" You snicker at his obvious exasperation, disappearing into the dimly lit hallway with a wily smile. Despite his belief that this game is amongst the dumbest things to exist, he chases after you with a stupid lopsided grin and a hearty laugh bubbling in his chest.

❖︎

Now you have both found yourselves seated at your usual place settings at one of many tables in the Dining Hall in the Knights Wing- both of your plates holding large proportions of meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy.

"Why am I still not surprised that you managed to guess what's for dinner almost a mile away from where the actual food is?" You smile in disbelief and take a small bite of your meatloaf.

"Because, I do this almost every day." Link jokes with a mouth full of food, some of it even falling out of his mouth as he speaks.

You recoil at the sight. "Ugh- Link! What would Zelda think?"

   Link scowls. "She would probably slap me on the back of the head and tell me to mind my manners." He pauses and looks around the room. "But, if you haven't noticed- she's not here right now."

   Seconds later a brisk slap is delivered to the back of his head, knocking some potatoes from his mouth that's incredibly too full.

"Hey! What the hell was that for?" He groans with his muffled voice as he rubs the back of his head.

You swallow a bite of food- trying to fight off a smile threatening to expose you.

"Well you do need to mind your manners. You're one of Zelda's most trusted Royal Knights aren't you? You need to act more presentable."

Link sighs. "I think you two spend way too much time together now."

You grin evilly, a snarky sentence conjuring in your head.

"Aww what's wrong Linky? Jealous?" You pout, giving him a playful bump to the shoulder.

Link immediately tenses up at the use of the despised nickname, his insides practically cramping from the sickeningly sweet way it rolled off your tongue.

"I'm going to kill Purah for implanting that terrible nickname in your head. And to be honest- I've suddenly lost my appetite." Link grimaces as he pushes the plate away.

   You burst into a fit of obnoxious laughter, the other knights immediately looking at you like you're crazy. They wouldn't say anything though- they respect you too much. Besides, these bouts of laughter are quite normal around here now.

"And here I'm the one that's being told to act presentable." Link jests while you wipe the tears from your eyes.

"Oh shut up."

You both return to eating your food, every so often sparing a glance to each other. You sit there and people watch, just enjoying the pleasant atmosphere you have created for yourselves.

Things weren't always like this though. Back when Link had awoken in the chamber of resurrection, you were just a traveler making your way around Hyrule without a real reason for doing so. You were lonely and had no clue what you were doing with your life.

But then you met Link.

   It was a normal day in Hyrule, the sky was clear, the birds were chirping, the water was calm, and the giant evil looking cloud was swirling around the castle in its encasement of huge scary looking pillars. You were simply observing it from a stump in front of a campfire at Woodland Stable while your horse munched on some weeds beside you. You were cooking up some random mushrooms you had found to soothe your grumbling stomach when a sudden flash of dirty blonde had caught your eye, and soon you found yourself staring curiously at a handsome young man adorned with extremely rare weaponry. He was boarding his horse, minding his own business, but you couldn't help but keep staring. Where had he found those rare weapons? You had wondered. Perhaps at the moment you wondered too hard because when you were met with reality once again, he was walking in your direction.

   You tried to act natural, like you hadn't just been blatantly staring at him like some creep only moments before. Although you couldn't help but think with the way he looks- so exotic and seasoned with exploration and knowledge, he must get stared at a lot.

   You were so filled with anxiety, thinking of what you would say and what you would do- part of you even believed that he was on a mission to tell you off for staring so much.

    But all he did was walk over, remove the weapons and shield from his back, and sat down across from you. He waved politely, and you waved back. Eventually, you began to ask questions about the sparkling swords and bows he carried, and a lively conversation developed. You bonded immediately and talked throughout the night, brushing over topics like things you have found and the dangers you had faced. It really was a pleasant night.
Apparently he had been just as lonely as you, because not even 2 days later, he had asked if you would like to adventure the land with him. Little did you know what you were getting into.

   A couple weeks into the journey, you learned many things about Link. Including the shocking truth about his past and what fate has in store for him. He was afraid if he told you you would think differently of him- think of him as a failure or even a celebrity, which was something he dreaded entirely.  It didn't bother you at all though. You had gotten to know him, and you knew he was a hard worker and a good person at heart. Really you were just glad to be able to help fight this battle alongside a friend, even though he insisted it was too dangerous. It gave you purpose, and a reason to keep living your life.

   Snapping fingers interrupt your reminiscing, and you are brought back to the present and your half eaten meatloaf.

"I lost you for a little bit there. What're you thinking so hard about?" Link inquires curiously before shoveling a scoop of food in his mouth from his second serving of meatloaf.

"Oh nothing- just thinking about patrols tomorrow." You lie, picking at your potatoes. You don't like to talk about the past very much with Link, frightened it will bring up bad memories. It's for the best you keep these moments to yourself you decide.

"Uh- huh." Link says with a suspicion filled tone. He must've decided to leave it be though because he continues.

"Well don't worry, patrols will be as boring as they always are."

You scoff. " I'm not worrying- just- wish something exciting would happen y'know?"

"Be careful what you wish for"

"Well- what's the point of being Zelda's dedicated knights when there's nothing to even keep her safe from." You exclaim frustratingly.

    Link stops his fork mid air, disturbed by your thinking. "Y/N- our duty is to keep Zelda safe, and she's safe. Do you even know what you're asking for?" 

   You sigh, relaxing your tensed shoulders. "Yeah- I know I'm sorry... I'm just- I feel like I'm going to waste. Do you think- our purposes are already served in this life? Do our roles even matter anymore?"

   Link sets his fork down, brushing his hands together. He sighs and clasps his hands together, letting them rest on the table. He seems to be in deep thought.

"I didn't tell you this before- but... I've had this weird feeling lately."

You look up from your hands with a curious expression.

"What do you mean?"

Link exhales loudly. Whatever it is is clearly bothering him.

"It's- it's probably nothing... but it just feels like this pull. Like- something's out there that we are missing."

"Have you told Zelda about this?" You question, your tone void of any playfulness it held earlier.

   Link shakes his head. "No I don't want to worry her. She's already stressed enough about castle duties and being Queen- I couldn't do that to her. Besides, she finally seems happy."
You place your palm over your eyes. Of course Link wouldn't tell her. He's too worried about others rather than himself. Typical.

"Link- I understand that, but this could be something dangerous. You need to tell her as soon as possible. Trust me she would want to know."
"But-"

  You quickly hold a finger up, silencing him. "Ah ah ah- no. Don't even start with that 'I'm burdening people with my emotions and problems stuff'. What you're experiencing matters Link. It always does. Besides- you and Zelda have been through a lot together. She trusts you."

A rose-y pink tints Links face. He's always surprised by how much you care for him. He doesn't think he will ever get used to it.

"I'll talk to her about it soon." Link decides with an abashed grin.

"You promise?"

"I promise"

Chapter Text

You rise steadily in your bed, letting the sheets roll off of you as you stretch your arms above you with a large (and rather unladylike) yawn. Beaming yellow sunlight streams through the crevice in your curtains, hitting your eyes and causing you to squint. Urging yourself to emerge from the warm confines of your quilt, you maneuver yourself and let your feet hit the chilled cobbled floor. The cold floors cause your spine to tingle, but you ignore it as best you can, just as you do every morning, and stroll to your curtains- tugging them open with ease.

The golden light pours into the room, flooding it with color. You bask in the warmth momentarily, just letting yourself take in the new day. Another day. Another... slightly boring day...

Never mind that. You have a job to do.

You go to your armoire, pulling out your armor from its place stuffed in the corner- stacked among other annoyingly misshapen things that are impossible to set somewhere nicely. Collecting might be a hobby of yours- perhaps an addiction- but damn, it can be quite cluttering. You ignore that prospect once you see the gems and other shiny things catch in the light.

You are a sucker for shiny things.

You toss the armor on the bed just before heading to your vanity to attend to your bedraggled hair. "Looks like I had a restless night." You chuckle, tackling the knots with a hairbrush gifted to you by Zelda. Even though you are a woman, your tendencies- sometimes lack the grace and poise often associated with the women stereotype. You are certainly no Princess. Though- most probably figure that out when they were informed of your title.

Quickly pulling your hair back and out of the way, you gear up in your official Knights Armor.  Yours is slightly different from the Royal Knights however- considering what happened 2 years ago. The classic silver is adorned with not only the red of the Symbol of Hyrule, but also garnished with the champions blue in honor of the warriors who's lives were lost in the Calamity. Gold embellishments tie it all off. It's rather fancy for Links liking, so he's told you many times before, but you actually love the colors. It makes you feel special. Important. Wanted. Honored.

Things you never expected to be viewed as so long ago.

Now fully armored and ready for patrols, you snatch an apple on your way out, chomping it in your mouth as you shut the door. Casually, you walk down the hallway, unfazed to see Link with a messily done ponytail, practically wrestling with his doorknob while juggling an unnecessary amount of weapons in his arms along with other things; you would think with the Master Sword sheathed proudly on his hip, he wouldn't bother bringing other weapons. Part of you thinks there is a reason he avoids using the Sword of Legend.

With a smug grin, you lean against the wall, take a bite of your apple and watch with amusement as he struggles.

"Enjoying yourself are you?" Link grunts as he finally clicks the door shut, promptly sending you an unpleased frown before situating himself.

"Oh yes very much so. And how about you? Seems you have had a pleasant morning."

Link huffs, tugging at his hair in effort to fix it, but just ends up worsening it's frizzy state.
"I slept in. Anyways- can we head out now? I like to get to the stables with enough time to brush Epona. You know that."

You swallow another bite of your apple, wiping your face with the back of your glove. "Yeah of course. But first hold this- " You grab Links hand and place the apple in his palm, earning a disgusted expression from your close friend. "And turn around."

"Wha- why?" Link asks exasperated.

"Just do it."

With a roll of his eyes, and perhaps a little force on your part, he turns around.

"Y/N I swear if this is a prank at 7 in the morning I will happily tie you to Epona and drag your a-"

The feathery feeling of his hair brushing against his neck distracts him from his threat, trapping the rest of his words in his throat. Your fingers brush expertly through his hair, undoing any knots and mangles. He can't believe this is happening- so much so, that a bloomy blush grows on his cheekbones. To make matters worse (or perhaps better)-  your fingers scrape over his scalp- oh Hylia- Link can't help the sigh of pure bliss that escapes him, tilting his head back to allow you more access to his hair.

Little does he know of the blush painted across your nose, practically reaching the tips of your pointed ears in a spread of scarlet. He has no idea how much you have longed to drag your fingers through his locks of dirty blonde. It's softer than you imagined too. Plus, he hasn't cut his hair in a long time, so it's at the longest length you have seen- but judging by the perfect ends, it seems he has given it a light trim. How adorable. Finally tying off his long hair with his classic blue ribbon in a half up half down style, you step back to admire your work.

"T-there- much better than the rats nest you had before!" You say so brightly, you could practically hear your smile. Good thing too, you were afraid you weren't going to be able to mask the shakiness in your voice.

Link brings a hand to his ponytail, his eyes blown wide, still processing how close you had been- how he could feel the warmth radiating from your body, from your hands. He can't erase the touch of your palms in his hair, the ghost of your fingers still trailing over his crown. He hadn't known just how much he had craved to be close to someone- to you- until that very moment.

Realizing you had just spoken to him, Link turns partially, afraid if he turns to far he may reveal his rather embarrassing blush still burning across his face.

"Yeah- thanks."He simply says, afraid if he speaks too much he would stutter and stumble over his words like a drunken fool. He holds out his hand still occupied with the apple, and you quickly grab it from him. You smile nervously. He's acting strange. Did I do something wrong?

"Oh. Yeah, of course." You sheepishly reply, wrapping the apple in a cloth and placing it in your satchel.

"Well then- we should get going. Horses to brush and patrols and all that..." He points out with an awkward clap of his gloved hands and a slim smile.

"Yep!" You awkwardly laugh. "Lots of work to dooo."

You both nervously chuckle, painfully aware of the practically unbearable awkwardness that has manifested, and walk down the hallway side by side avoiding any eye contact if that's at all possible.

This is gonna be a quiet walk. You think, cringing on the inside.

︎ ❖︎
︎︎
In a short while, you both arrive at the towering barn known as Hyrule Castle Stables. Probably one of your favorite buildings, aside from the Castle of course. It's beautiful cobbled exterior is cradled by green ivy and other vines, creating the authentic feel. It was one of the only buildings that didn't need much renovating or rebuilding after the Calamity.

On the inside, the comforting glow of sconces lines the walls between stalls, adding a sort of homey feeling to the place. The ceiling curves upward into a beautiful display of fancy crown moldings and intricate swirls of wood, those same designs even traveling onto the support beams crossing each other above you. The soft murmur of stable hands and other workers reaches your ears, and only shortly after so does the happy whinny of your dark beauty, Nyx. Your eyes meet hers and she immediately starts dancing in place, acting as if she hasn't seen you in days- when it has in fact, only been one.

You race to your horse, your smile growing larger, and gleefully rest your hand upon her snout, bringing her forehead to yours. "I'm sorry I couldn't visit you yesterday. I was busy with training. But we are gonna have a great day today. Maybe we will find some cool stuff, or maybe like- something to fight! I've been getting kinda rusty to be honest- hence all the training. Can't let myself get too soft. Anyways- enough about me, how are you?"

Nyx whinnies loudly, and huffs some air in your face, blowing your stray hairs backwards.

"I said I'm sorry!" You pout. "Now can you just skip the theatrics and forgive me? Please? It was only a day after all."

Nyx puts on a show of lifting her head high, and spinning around slowly in her stall, flicking her tail this way and that in show of her annoyance.

"Wow- so now you're giving me the silent treatment huh?" As usual, when you have been too busy to visit your horse, you reach into your satchel, smirking when you notice her ear flick at the sound, and pull out her favorite treat.

"Mmm I can't wait to finish eating this big, juicy apple." You slowly take a bite, a smile stretching across your face when Nyx's ear twitches multiple times in a row. You make a big show out of eating it, crunching so loudly that she can't stop herself from falling for the bait and turning her head to watch the apple in your hand from the corner of her eye.

With a small giggle, you flick your wrist and send the apple into the stall, and sure enough, because your horse is the best, she catches it out of midair, barely savoring the treat before she approaches you for another nuzzle.

You gladly accept, smiling into her mane. "I take it I'm forgiven now?"

Nyx whinnies, as if in reply, and you let out a loud laugh, one you couldn't even try to suppress. Grabbing some supplies, including a brush and some ties for some braids, you open the stall door and get to work, every so often handing her a horse treat made specially for them in the castle bakery.

In the middle of braiding her silky midnight mane, you hear the clop of familiar horse hooves approaching in the aisle, and glance shortly to see Link perched atop his horse Epona, his hair glistening just as much as hers, and his cerulean eyes set jovially upon you.

You notice he's quiet, but you can feel his eyes still gazing down at you. It's making you incredibly self conscious. Maybe you really did upset him earlier...

"You spent ten minutes talking to her didn't you?" Link jokes, his stoic expression taking on a childlike grin.

You let out an airy laugh, partially from relief- and also because he's right.

"Maybe." You chuckle, your eyes flicking to his for a moment before focusing back on the braids. Once you finish it up, you grab the saddle and adjust the straps. "So what if I did anyways?" You grunt as you lift the saddle onto her back, situating it the way you like it, and making sure it's nice and comfortable for your four legged friend.

"Oh no reason. I just figured that's why you've accomplished less than a snail would in twenty minutes." He snickers, but that quickly fades when he is met with a boot flying through the air.

He dodges it expertly, and pops back up with a blank, and quite unimpressed look. "Did you seriously just throw your boot at me? Again?"

You look back at him and smirk. "You deserved that and you know it."

He laughs. "I suppose you're correct. But a boot? Couldn't it be- I don't know- something less- dense?" He suggests as he hops off Epona, picking up your boot and returning it to you.

You take the boot from him and slide it back on with ease.

"Well where's the fun in that Hero?" You tease with a lopsided grin, throwing your leg over Nyx and getting comfortable upon her back.

Link shakes his head with a smile before gently snapping the reigns and clicking his tongue.

"Alright let's get going, we're losing patrol time."

"Yes, sir." You salute mockingly behind him, following him into the bustling streets of Castle Town atop the back of your loyal steed. Hopefully this day will prove to be less boring than the last, you think silently with hope and excitement burning in your soul.

Chapter Text

Castle Town is a rather- lively sort of place. Since the Calamity, there's been constant construction, markets, festivals, and parades. Zelda decided that celebrating was the best way to lighten the moods of her people- and she had been correct. The Hylian Race hasn't seen Hyrule so safe and fun since- well- never. The people are loving their new Queen. And you are glad it's that way. The only problem is- you aren't a fan of so many people in one place. And if you were to describe the streets of Castle Town... well it would be just that.

   As soon as you pass the gates of Hyrule Castle, the people of Hyrule stop what they are doing, throw their arms in the air and burst into an uproar of cheers. You look over to Link and notice him sigh. He is not a fan of the attention- but it's nice to be able to walk straight through the town without accidentally trampling someone with your tall horse.

  Nyx walks steadily through the parting in the crowd, two guards walking beside the two of you to ensure you get through the town without becoming too overwhelmed.

"Y/N can I get an autograph?"

"Oh my Hylia it's Link! The Hero of Hyrule!"

"Link are you single!?!"

Okay did someone seriously just ask that?

   Irritated by that last comment, you whip the reigns and pick up the pace, wanting to get out of Castle Town as soon as possible. You know for a fact that behind you Link is trying his best to ignore the comments. I mean it's no surprise a handsome guy like him would get so much attention- but it's still annoying. Who do these people think they are?

   Soon the outer gates reach your line of sight, and you release a relieved breath. The crowd starts to become sparse this way (thank the Goddess Hylia) and you find yourself finally able to release the tension in your shoulders. Upon seeing you, the guards happily pull the lever, releasing the gates, and wave you off as you exit the town. You are immediately greeted with the astounding vastness of Hyrule Field, where you fought the large battle so long ago. It always brings a sort of melancholic air about you, but you tend to ignore it- like you do with most of your problems. Instead you plaster on a smile, and look around at the outdoors  surrounding you in all of its light green and pastel glory. Birds are chirping, happily dancing in the sky, the grass is swaying in the breeze, and the view is stunning as always. At least you have nature to accompany you on this day of patrol.

  Link pulls up next to you, also taking time to enjoy the beauties of the world. He misses traveling sometimes- but he would never admit it. His sworn duties to Zelda are too important to disregard.

  Noticing his presence, you look to him, and you can't help but frown, still thinking you did something to upset him earlier.

"Hey Link?" He looks to you now, sky blue meeting e/c. "I'm sorry if I overstepped any boundaries today- I had no intention of making you feel uncomfortable." You admit, refraining from letting any annoying tears spill from your eyes. It has just occurred to you that the mere thought of him being upset with you kills you on the inside. What a pathetic feeling that is...

  Link however, is shocked. Why on earth would you think he's upset with you? He gives it a moment of deep thought, and then it strikes him. Oh shit. The memory rushes back to him in seconds- your touch, the closeness of your bodies, the pure and utter bliss his touch starved self was feeling- it all has him blushing profoundly. He hasn't been this flustered in his entire life.

"Oh t-that?" He brings a palm to his face, sheerly out of the embarrassment that he has to explain this to you. The problem is, how can he say this without sounding like he has... feelings for you?

"That- didn't upset me at all. I was just- just...." He sways his hands, trying to come up with the correct wording, without revealing his internal monologue at the time.

You lean forward, your eyebrows pinched on your forehead. "Just what?"

"I liked it okay!?"  He confesses breathlessly, his eyes wide and his cheeks pink.

Your mouth hangs open for a second, mostly in disbelief- but then you slap a gloved hand over your upturned lips and sputter out a muffled laugh that evolves into a full blown guffaw.

"Link-" you say, finally calming down. "The Hero of Hyrule likes to have his hair done!" You burst into another fit of laughter, unable to keep yourself from doing so.

"Oh shut up." Link pouts, crossing his arms.

"There's nothing wrong with it! In fact it's kinda cute- I just didn't expect that from you. You caught me off guard, that's all."

Links face reddens further. Cute?

"We should probably get to patrols though- I just didn't want to go all day thinking you were upset with me, so I'm glad I asked. In fact- really glad." You snicker, elbowing his side.

  He grunts, wincing at the impact, his blush still evident through and through. "Sometimes you can be such a pain in my ass." He mumbles under his breath.

"What was that Link?" You ask snidely, urging Nyx in the opposite direction for your patrol .

"I said you're a pain in my ass!" Link shouts, turning to watch you go.

"I can't hear you!" You sing, cupping a hand to your ear with a devilish grin.

  Link groans and begins his patrol route for the day, hearing your teasing laughs from behind. He grins, finding himself chuckling at the sound. Even though you're a pain in his ass, you're a funny one. The best kind in his opinion.

❖︎

  Hours passed have passed, and you have made headway towards the Southern part of Hyrule Field, your only violent encounters involving a shit ton of mosquitoes and a lot of sinful words.

  You sigh into the air, slumping your shoulders and carelessly pick at the leather of Nyx's reigns. Fidgeting seems to be the only output for your boredom- since playing I spy with a horse has proven to be a very one sided game.

"Why does life have to be so boring now, Nyxie?" You grumble under your breath, your expression heavy with a pout of frustration.

Your horse simply huffs, and continues her canter.

   You look to the castle in the distance, the stunning view pulling sadness from places deep within your soul. You avert your gaze, instead focusing it down at your hands, and then up at the horizon- the opposite direction of the castle. A gorgeous view of uneven terrain and scattered forests greets you with its asymmetrical shapes, poised against a perfectly blue sky and silhouettes of looming mountains.

"I know it's wrong to feel this way- because everything is back to normal... most importantly Zelda's safe. But- is it wrong to crave adventure once in a while? Even if just for short bouts of time?" A breeze blows past you, ruffling your hair. You close your eyes, and inhale deeply, trying to erase the crease of dejection from between your brows. For a moment, you picture you are back in the time in the Calamity- just you, Link, and your horses- destined for greatness and the open road. Everything was uncertain- wild- and you lived for every moment of adrenaline thrown at you, whether it be your largest foe or a simple camp of bokos- it always felt so thrilling. Now, life seems so... confined, and official. You hadn't asked to become some legendary hero- you simply wanted adventure. You craved it. You still do... but now you are a Knight. One of Queen Zelda's most trusted Royal Knights, in fact. And that means so much to you, truly it does. And you know you did great things for the sake of the people of Hyrule. But maybe... just maybe... you want to break free from that. Just to get a little taste of that adventurous feeling once again...

"No." You tell yourself sternly, tugging Nyx to an abrupt hault. "That is utterly- selfish- and- and cruel! Not only to Zelda, but to the people of Hyrule as well. That's unacceptable thinking. I'm not going to- to... what is that?" You growl in annoyance and hold your hand up to your eye, shielding it from a flash of light blurring your vision. From between your fingers, you spot a flare of white coming from the field, and your expression twists to fit one of interest and intrigue- perhaps even the slightest sprinkle of curiosity as well.

   Guiding Nyx to it, you hop off her back with ease, cautiously approaching the object seemingly buried halfway in the dirt. Kneeling down, you carefully brush the filth away, hoping to get a better look at the thing.

  As soon as the dust settles, you let out a gasp, your eyes twinkling with a reflected glow of purple. In front of you, caressed within clay and grime, a swirling amulet of black and magenta stares back at you- it's aura giving you a strange feeling... like it's pulling you in...

  With great care, you pick it up, standing in the process. You almost drop it in shock as it glows brighter, seemingly reacting to your touch, but you manage to hold on- albeit with a rather dumbfounded expression.

  You trace its metallic lining, an odd sort of feeling coming over you. Almost like the urge to protect- to specifically protect this necklace with your life. You have no idea why it seems so important to you, but you decide to put it on- maybe you can ask Zelda about it later.

   As you clasp the necklace around your neck, you are overcome with an almost unbearable, sizzling hot pain. A guttural groan escapes you, and you fall to your knees, your arms flexing uncomfortably at your sides. The smell of burning flesh fills your nostrils, almost making you gag. At the moment you aren't entirely sure if it's just the smell or if it's the pain thats also doing that to you, but you decide it doesn't matter- the only thing you need to figure out is why in the name of goddess Hylia you are in such an incredible amount of torment.

  Opening your blurred eyes, you try to focus your attention on something else- anything else, but a chill runs down your spine, and terror stalls your lungs. Looking down at your hands, your nails deep within the dirt, you can't miss the violet luminescence radiating in twisted lines over your fingers. Your veins are glowing. You're drenched in a cold sweat, your heart pounding against your rib cage like it's trying to escape. And suddenly you can't feel anything, the world only sways as you are thrown into a disassociated state, the fear and confusion too great for you to believe this is truly happening.

  With your limbs trembling, you feel paralyzed, unable to move. You keep yourself grounded- but you are in such a panic you don't know what to do. The only thing that comes to mind is to plead to the goddesses- beg for them to make this end.

Make it stop, please make it stop. You think, repeating this over and over.

Make it stop, make it stop, make it stop-

"Make it stop!" You scream, all of your pain and emotions influencing a tear jerking call for help.

  The bout of rage and suffering must've reached the Goddesses, because like some kind of magic, the agony begins to subside, allowing you to gasp for air that so desperately fills your lungs. You let out a whimper, now on all fours, and stay there for a moment, allowing yourself to catch your breath- and keep yourself from passing out. Once you start to feel somewhat decent, you let your hands trace over the sources of pain- searching for the cause. When you finally reach behind your neck, you immediately notice the tenderness and heat emanating from it, hissing as your shaky fingers make contact.

  Your eyes widen when you feel around a little more, and suddenly you are filled with an incredible amount of fear- more than you had felt just moments before.

The clasp has scorched its way into your skin, burying itself within your very own flesh.

Chapter Text

Unsure of what to do, you begin to feel the sheer panic manifesting itself in your chest. Your heart thumps out of rhythm and your vision blurs- you are on the verge of passing out.

You let yourself fall to the ground and the impact causes your neck to throb. You cry out, your tears falling from the curve of your jaw to join the earth. Your mind isn’t treating you much better. You are so scared, so confused, and in so much pain.

But this isn’t what a knight would do. You’ve felt worse, you’ve broken literal bones for Hylia’s sake. You aren’t weak- you won’t succumb to the pain. Mustering your strength, you urge yourself to sit upward, ignoring your trembling elbows. You take a few deep breaths, and then you decide to do what any sane person would-

…to pry the fucking necklace out of your skin yourself.

You swiftly remove your leather belt, put it in your mouth, and bite down as hard as you can. Then with a deep breath and great urgency, because you can’t give yourself much time to think, you dig your fingers into the wound, trying your best to get leverage from underneath the chain.

You’re sure your muffled screams can still be heard from all over Hyrule, because as soon as your fingers touch the bloodied metal, it begins to burn once again- searing hot, like it was taken from the depths of Death Mountain itself. You hunch over, your fingers twitching and you back bending as your body flinches at every infliction of pain.

When the burning stops, you punch the ground, anger brewing in the pit of your nauseated stomach. You’re sure this is some type of witchcraft- you can feel the evil seeping into your very bones. What kind of sick son of a bitch would do this? You know for sure that as soon as you find out, something or someone is losing its life.

At least you know now that you can’t get it out yourself. Your next resort-

is Link.

He’s definitely going to scold you for getting involved with whatever witchery this is. Maybe it’s best you don’t tell him… it’ll only cause him to worry. But also, if you don’t your life could be at stake. You could probably figure this out on your own- you shouldn’t bother Link with it…

You admit to yourself right then and there that you are most definitely being stupid. You have to tell Link. His help is exactly what you need. Right?

Hoisting yourself from the ground, you stumble around, dizzily looking for Nyx- but she’s nowhere to be found. You’re screaming must’ve caused her to run off scared. You bring your fingers to your lips and whistle, and surely enough, Nyx comes bounding off the path, shaking her head as an irritated horse would. You grasp her reins and try your best to get on her back- but it proves to be incredibly difficult. Sensing your distress, Nyx bows as close to the ground as she possibly can, giving you easier access to your seat. You pat her neck as you adjust yourself on the saddle, a small smile finding it’s way to your face. “Thanks Nyxie.”

“Now let’s go find Link.”

You snap the reins and Nyx jerks into a full on sprint, charging through the field and bounding up hills. It seems like every movement makes the clasp dig further into your neck- each jerk of your limbs fabricating white hot pain. Your hair comes undone, flowing in the gusts of wind, the strands against your face turning into needles. Your heart thuds at the same rate of your horse beneath you and your anxiety festers along with your wound. Tears form in the ducts of your eyes, yet you are unsure whether it is due to the wind or pain.

Just as you round the trees of The Sacred Grounds in a blur of black and steel, the familiar face of Zelda’s messenger makes itself known as he curves the trees as well. Letting out a rather inhuman-like screech, you let your quick reflexes kick in and pull Nyx’s reigns back with abrupt force. Cuysu isn’t as quick to stop and ends up swerving his horse with a rather panicked look and brings her to a skidding stop behind you. You turn Nyx around to face him and urge her over next to his steed.

“You seem to be in quite a rush.” You joke as he brushes off his royal attire the dust seems to have clung to. You also note how terrible your voice sounds, all that screaming seems to have done a number on your vocal cords.

“Yes, well, I came to find you. But first I must ask, why do you look like that? You look terrible.” He says as he turns his attention to you.

You feign a smile. “Nevermind that, you said you needed to find me? For what?”

“Zelda wants to speak with you immediately. She says it’s urgent. Link has already been informed and is awaiting you in Zelda’s study.” He tells you in a serious tone as he adjusts his hat. “I will escort you back though the town, and then I insist you get yourself cleaned up before you meet with Zelda. You look like you were tied up and beaten with a stick.”

You feel a spark of hope in your chest- Zelda wants to speak with you and it’s urgent? This could only mean one thing. Adventure.

With a snap of Nyx’s reins you take off towards Castle Town, coating Cuysu in a second cloud of dust.

“Hey what the-“ He whines as he looks down at his white clothing absorbing the dirt. He groans at the sight. “Wait for me you little-!” He taps his heel on his speckled horse's side, pushing her to move as quickly as she can after you.

“I’m gonna kill her for ruining another one of my suits.” He grumbles.

Upon arriving at the castle, you let Nyx into her stable and ensure she has enough food and water, even though that’s the stable hands job. Your body feels as if it’s taken a beating and everything hurts to move, but you pat Nyx and lift your arms to hug her anyways, fighting the grimace that’s pulling at the corners of your mouth.

“Thanks for getting me here safely Nyxie.” You smile, burying yourself in her mane. You always appreciate everything she does for you. And even if she can’t understand it, you try your best to show just how much you appreciate her efforts. After spooking her like you did today, you decide to fill her food container up a little more than it’s supposed to be filled- winking to her as you do so.

You then leave the stable, giving your horse one final goodbye. You don’t bother waving to the stable hands, already feeling self conscious over how you look. You hope they can’t tell you are in an unbearable amount of pain. Judging by the way they are eyeing you, you suspect they’ve already noticed.

Usually when you find yourself walking through the halls of Hyrule Castle you always have this feeling of slight discomfort. Every cobbled wall flashes before your eyes, reverting to its crippled state of rubble covered in dust and malice, and it sends a chill up your spine. It’s strange, even after two years, seeing this place so alive and tidy. You can remember the cold feeling so well- you remember the sounds of Lizalfos echoing through the halls, reaching your ears and causing white knuckles wrapped around your bow. It was all so dark and dreary… but even now, as light pours through stained glass windows and cascades across your skin, you somehow feel more uncomfortable here then you ever have before. Something about the aura of the castle has changed…

You open the door to your room, closing it behind you and making sure to lock it with your key. You are quick to move to your wardrobe, pulling out a rag and a hairbrush to hurriedly clean yourself up. You dip the worn cloth in the fresh bucket of water and wipe your face down. The rag turns brown immediately. No wonder everyone was looking at you so strangely- you are decorated with mud. Your armor has no shine at all. You grab another rag and continue to clean, being sure to wipe down your hair as well. Once that is done, you grab a third rag and sit down in front of your vanity, looking into the mirror.

Cuysu was right. You look terrible.

Your skin looks flushed and sickly, your hair is greasy and stringy. Dark circles under your eyes make you look like you haven’t slept in months, and the shakiness in your hands irks you. You dare let your eyes fall to the amulet around your neck. But your face changes abruptly when you notice the amulet has lost its glow completely. The purple luminescence has entirely diminished and has taken on a rather stone-ish look. Aside from the metal buried in the back of your neck, the glowing amulet has turned into nothing but a regular necklace.

Maybe that’s a good sign…

Speaking of the necklace, you make sure to clean around the wound to remove any dirt and prevent infection. If that’s even possible. You’re careful not to touch the clasp with your skin fearing the metal will begin burning hellishly once more. Then, you keep your hair down and let it rest over the wound created by the clasp, making sure it’s hidden from the world. You don’t want anyone questioning you about it on your way to Zelda’s study. And you especially don’t want anyone to question it when you’re there.

Zelda and Link would be worried sick.

You are then reminded of your duties, so you hop up and make sure you are all cleaned up with one last glance in your water pail before opening the door and heading down the hall.

Surprisingly you’ve found the pain has basically diminished. It’s almost like it’s numbed. You smile to yourself at the relief, even turning your neck a little to relieve it of its stiffness.

Everything’s going to be fine.

Chapter Text

Upon reaching Zelda’s room, you see Cuysu standing in front of the door, his arms crossed and his thin lips twisted into deep frown. “Well if it isn’t the suit ruiner.” He says as he gestures to his royal attire. You cringe at the sight. “Oops…” You laugh sheepishly. Cuysu throws his hands up in the air. “This is the third damned suit this month! How do you always seem to ruin them at the worst possible times too? I really ought to-“ he pauses, visibly calming himself. “You know what- this isn’t important right now.” He opens the door to Zelda’s room and you scurry past him, uttering one last apology while he fights the urge to slam the door behind you. You hear it click shut gently as you walk through the room.

You feel entirely too nervous for some reason. This all feels off. Maybe you should tell them about the necklace… or maybe not. Maybe this is a bad idea…. Maybe you should just leave before they see you-

“Oh Y/N, thank Hylia you’re here.” Zelda says as she emerges from the bridge to her study. She runs over to greet you with a hug and your blood runs cold as she wraps her dainty arms around you. Shakily you reciprocate the gesture, beads of sweat building at your brow. Your eye catches on Link leaning against the doorframe, his own eyes studying you. You try to mask your fear as Zelda drags on the hug, and you sigh in relief when she lets you go.

“Come- I have some dire news and something you must see.” Zelda talks speedily, the tempo of her voice matching her steps as she darts to her study.

You brush yourself off and act as naturally as you can when you walk by Link- his sharp cerulean eyes watching your every move. You smile at him and try to move past, but he quickly stops you with a hand on your shoulder. Time feels as if it slows down and you can almost hear the heavy thumping of your heart in your ears. His gloved finger tips emit a sort of electricity that travels to the cold metal around your neck that you are suddenly painfully aware of.

He stares for a moment. His eyes narrowed.

“Are you okay?” He questions with a sort of gentleness in his voice.

You gulp. You should tell him. Right now. You need to tell him.

“Yeah I’m fine.” You smile effortlessly, looking into his eyes for just a moment as if thats all you can handle- and you continue walking, letting his hand slip off your shoulder. You know he’s staring at you as you go- so you raise your chin and make sure you pull your shoulders back. You can’t tell him yet. There’s more important things to worry about now.

Cozy lighting shines through the slits of windows in the surrounding wall of Zelda's study, cascading rays of afternoon sunshine upon her desk. Zelda stands over what looks to be an old book, her eyes scanning each page vigorously. Parchment lays scattered across the floors and hangs from pins on the walls. Each one depicts writings and drawings of cloaked figures and strange symbols. Despite the sudden sweatiness of your palms you can’t help but stare at one displaying a strange character surrounded by blood red splotches. Most of the body is smudged with charcoal and fingerprints- so you are unable to truly know what this is but somehow even though the image feels distant and full of secrets- you feel for some strange reason that you are drawn to the mystery of this character. You wonder for a moment who they are.

“What is all of this?” Link asks as he gestures to the walls and the floor, his eyes shining with curiosity.

Zelda spins around, holding the moldy looking book close to her chest, taking in the mess of papers herself.

“It all started just last night when one of your fellow knights, Tepari, had a strange run-in in Castle Town. According to her, a group of beings dressed in odd clothing and dark cloaks were skulking in the shadows. They were quiet and stealthy- no one knows how they had gotten past our guards. When they noticed Tepari had seen them, they quickly vanished, almost into thin air.” You and Link exchange a knowing look.

“Is it possible the Yiga Clan is making a comeback?” Link wonders aloud.

“I mean- I thought since, y’know, we destroyed a majority of them, that they wouldn’t gather anymore because they don’t have enough members to join their cult.” You bring a hand to your chin, pondering all the possibilities. “I suppose it’s possible they have regathered their forces. Maybe they just don’t have the funds for their fancy attire now.” You shrug, wiping the sweat from your forehead.

“Well that’s just the thing- when they scurried away like a bunch of cowards-“ Zelda takes a few steps towards the table in front of you and Link and tosses the small yet thickly bound book on the table, the few papers around it flying off due to the impact.”- they left this behind.”

“May I?” Link asks as he gestures to the book.

“Of course- just be careful, the pages are so fragile that they fall out of the binding if you aren’t careful. Hence- all of this.” Zelda says, swaying her hands to point out the mess of papers around you.

You lean over next to Link to get a better look, being careful to not get too close, and peer at the pages and the designs on them.

“What is this language?” You ask with furrowed brows.

Zelda observes it as well. “It’s not a language I’m familiar with- in fact, it isn’t even in any language books I’ve studied. This is an unfamiliar tongue- almost like-“

“Like they made it up themselves.” You finish, tracing a hand over one of the symbols, fascination evident in your expression as your mouth hangs agape.

“Which would make sense as to why I can’t translate any of it.” Zelda notes.

Link takes a step back, crossing his arms.
“So wait- this supposed cult has been around long enough to develop an entire code language, and we had no idea they existed?” He shakes his head. “I find that hard to believe.”

“It’s not hard to remain invisible if you don’t go poking around.” You point out, still looking through the pages.

Suddenly your eye catches on something.

“Is that Satori Mountain?” You question, pointing to the symbol so Zelda can see for herself.

Zelda nods. “Yes I believe it is. I thought of this exact thing when I saw that symbol. I suppose this is a good time to mention the reason I called you both here.”

Zelda pulls a paper off the wall and hands it to you, and you grasp it rather awkwardly to avoid her hand.

“These are what I believe the locations of their hideouts may be from what I’ve studied in this book.”

You look it over and Link leans in closer to see. You feel your heart start pounding at the closeness- nervousness tumbling in your stomach.

“These are all places patrols have been recently and no one saw anything.” Link says frustratingly with a flick of his hand.

“That is correct. Which leads me to the conclusion that these meeting places are hidden.” Zelda states with a hand on her chin.

Unable to handle the closeness of their presences anymore- you quickly stand up, pushing them both out of the way with the book in hand.

“Well what are we waiting for then? Let’s get going.” You say a little too brightly, a crooked smile sitting uncomfortably on your pale face.

Both Link and Zelda stare at you with an odd look- something feels uneasy about the room.

“Y/N-” Zelda starts, stepping closer. “ Are you… alright?”

At those words your smile falters for a second, but you quickly fix it.

“Y-yeah. I’m fine- I already told Link this.”

Zelda’s eyes dart to the necklace around your neck- and suddenly you feel even more uncomfortable. You feel another emotion that is hard to pinpoint… but it feels a bit like anger.

“Well it’s just-” Zelda begins.

“It’s just nothing Zelda. I said I’m fine.” You practically seethe.

“Hey- calm down Y/N, no ones trying to upset you. She’s just concerned.” Link says, trying to settle the situation.

“Well I don’t need concern. I’m fine. Now are we going on this mission or what?”

Link looks to Zelda, and she nods.

“Yeah… okay. Let’s go pack. It’s going to be a long journey.” Link sighs, moving past you to leave the room.

You give one last glance to Zelda, simply nodding before you leave the room. Adventure is so close you can practically taste it. That's why you’ve decided no one can know about the injuries previously inflicted. You are finally going to leave Castle Town. You’re going to get what you’ve been asking for.

Chapter Text

Figuring Link probably went his own way, you leave Zelda’s room completely clueless as to how wrong you are. Link is leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, a stern look sharp enough to match his jaw. You see him and your anxiety immediately picks up again.

“So care to explain what that was?” He asks as he steps in front of you, his finger tapping against his arm.

You look around the hall, avoiding his eyes. “I’m not sure I know what you mean.” You say with a raise of your brows.

Link sighs. “You just talked to Zelda like she did something to deserve it- and last time I checked, she didn’t.” He pauses, studying your face. “Is there something that you need to tell me? Is something bothering you?”

You finally meet his eyes- finding them filled to the brim with concern. It causes guilt to tug at your heartstrings. You tuck your lips between your teeth, hating that you have to treat him like this.

Finally mustering the courage, you open your mouth to begin speaking- but he harshly interrupts you, his words sharp.

“Don’t lie to me Y/N.” He warns.

You take in a shaky breath, already forging your next lie in your mind.

“Link I’m fine-“ you put on your most believable grin, putting an extra emphasis on your next words.

“I promise.”

You move around him, making sure you hold your smile for as long as you need. He ponders for a moment- before turning and watching you enter your room with his eyebrows pinched and a small frown tugging at his lips.

Once your door is shut- you take your key and lock the door with a click before pressing your back against the hard wood surface and sliding down it until your bottom hits the cold stone floor. You bring your knees to your chest, cradling yourself and thinking over what you’re doing. You crave how things used to be so badly- but you don’t want to hurt them. But if you tell them- this is over. You won’t be allowed to go. You shut your eyes, taking yourself back to Hyrule Field, gazing back at the mountains that seem to call you once more. You need to feel alive again. And you’re sure as hell not letting Link do this by himself. You have to help- if you tell them about the necklace they won’t let you. So you are right for keeping this a secret.

Yeah… you’re definitely right.

Hoisting yourself up, you grab your satchel and begin filling it with things for your journey. Tomorrow you will head down to the kitchen and grab enough rations to last you at least a couple weeks. You remove your sleeping bag and pillow roll from your wardrobe as well and set that on your dresser. You pull a chest out from under your bed revealing elixirs and healing herbs and stuff as many as you can into your bag. You grab your travel journal and add that to your essentials as well. You always loved to write about your travels- during the Calamity, you had filled about three thick journals to the brim with adventures and adrenaline filled moments

Feeling nostalgic, you pull an old journal off the bookshelf, sit on the edge of your bed, and open it to a random page.

“He blames himself. And it hurts to see him do so. It’s not his fault the evil they had prepared for had become a much greater foe than they assumed. It makes me hate Ganon even more so. I hate him with every fiber of my being. I’m going to make sure he falls even if it costs my life.”

Yeah, that sounds like you alright. Protective of others yet reckless with your own life. Link’s different. If it comes to it, he would sacrifice himself for others, that much is clear. But he still tries his best to be smart about things and always enters situations with a plan. If things go south, he’s quick to think and works well under pressure. You on the other hand- you usually just swing weapons around and hope it works. And if someone else is in danger, you do just that- but angrier.

You flip to another random page, your fingers skimming the parchment gently before you stop on a particularly intriguing line, your eyes going wide.

“I think I love him.”

You slam the book shut, your hair fluttering from the whoosh of pages. Your face is burning from the embarrassment. Goddesses- why would you write such a thing? You were supposed to be focusing on defeating Ganon- not living out your…your… lustful teenage dreams. You were lucky he never got a hold of that journal. You probably would’ve just leapt off the nearest Sheikah Tower. Your whole body shivers at the thought of him reading that, and you shake your head, hoping to remove that utterly straightforward line from your mind.

Jumping from the bed- you eagerly toss the journal onto the shelf, not particularly caring how it lands, and you begin to remove your armor to get ready for bed. You find that it’s slightly more difficult due to the injury to your neck, but you do your best to ignore it and pretend it’s not there. It’s just easier for you that way.

Once all that heavy armor is off, you give yourself a once over in the mirror, admiring your scars with a small smile. You love the memories behind some of those. Others- not so much. Well- at least they make you look like a badass. Plus- the stories behind them are kind of cool you suppose.

Thinking nothing of it, you grasp the hem of your shirt, and pull it over your head.

You wish you would’ve known how dire the consequences would be.

The amulet of the necklace ignites in a sudden flame of magenta and black, and when it hits the center of your bare chest- your skin emits the same popping sound it had made earlier when the clasp was burning into your neck. The smell of singed flesh overwhelms you, coddling you in a cloud that reeks of death. Your veins burn that same violet glow, except much brighter than it had before.

You almost let out a scream, but you manage to muffle it by biting down on your own arm, even drawing luminescent blood from your skin. The pain increases tenfold, and you can’t stand any longer- so you cripple to the floor, trying your best to land safely. You weren’t careful enough however- and your head hits the hard stone, knocking you out cold in the middle of your room.

The last thing you hear is a voice calling out your name.

Knock.

Knock, knock, knock.

“Y/N!”
You awaken with a shrill gasp as if you are breathing air for the first time, your heart pounding and laying in a pool of your own sweat. You flinch in pain when you suddenly sit up, and you look down at the source, your hand just barely hovering over it.

You quickly jump up and look at yourself in the mirror- your skin feeling prickly and your palms sweaty at the sight of it. The amulet and the chain has burned itself into the center of your chest, surrounded by what looks to be black bolts of lightning underneath your skin- spreading from the wound.

Knock, knock, knock.

Your eyes dart to the door.

“Y/N- are you okay in there? I’ve been knocking for the past 30 minutes.”

Shit. It’s Link.

“Y/N if you don’t answer I’m going to bust this door down myse-”

“Y-yeah I’m… I’m awake, just- let me get dressed, I overslept.” You quickly shuffle around the room, grabbing the essentials and fixing your hair. You take a short moment to stop the room from swaying, and then you carefully put your chainmail and traveling clothes on over the necklace, cringing at the pain emanating from your simple movements. You’re starting to worry about how you’re going to hide this now.

Luckily you’ve always been good at faking smiles.

You rush out of your room, all of your things in hand in a rather unorganized manner. Link stands outside your door and looks you over, his gloved finger rhythmically tapping his arm. He looks well put together- but he also seems tired. You wonder for a moment what keeps him up at night.

Without saying a word, you situate yourself and straighten out your clothing, doing your best to ignore the aches and pains all over your body and the strong urge to tell him about your injuries. His piercing blue gaze studying your grisly appearance doesn’t help at all.

“Rough morning?” He jokes- yet you can hear a slight tinge of concern paired with it.

You have no idea.

“Too excited to sleep.” You manage to get out. Your mind is running a million miles an hour and you’re afraid if you speak too much he will hear the pain and trembling in your voice. Best to keep things curt till you get this figured out on your own. You keep your head lowered as you move past him- hoping if you walk in front he won’t be able to look at your face. Thankfully when you do so he doesn’t say a word.

You mentally curse yourself for the odd way you are acting. If you keep this up, things are going to become about you real quick. You just need to distract yourself from your condition and prep your acting skills. According to the page of locations you were given, this is going to be a long journey. A journey you’ve been waiting for for years. You’re not about to let some dumb magical necklace ruin your time. You’re going to have fun.

Yeah. You’re going to have fun.

After a short stop at the kitchen to supply your rations, you and Link head to the throne room to bid Zelda farewell.

However you wish your heart would stop pounding.

Zelda stands in the center of the throne room, her back turned and her hair glistening in the early morning sun rays blazing through the windows. Your skin tingles once more, the necklace aches painfully in your chest.

Zelda turns when she hears you both approaching, her skin paler than usual.

Link takes notice of this as well.

“Zelda is everything alright?” He asks. You watch as his hand moves to rest on the butt of his sword. The reflex of a warrior you suppose.

Zelda looks to the light, reaching her hand out to it as if trying to capture some of it in her palm. You watch her curiously, trying your best to read her blank expression. But it seems lost and unreadable. Perhaps even far away.

“Last night, I felt a strange shift in the energy of the castle. Something’s different.” She looks at you. “Something’s… off.” You hold your gaze steady, your expression unmoving.

“I feel as if something potentially dangerous is underfoot and we need to get to the bottom of it immediately.”

“I’ve felt it too. I’ve actually felt it the past couple weeks- but not nearly as strong as this.” Link finally admits.

“Link-“

He sighs. “I know, I should’ve told you. But there’s no time to waste now.”

Zelda’s frown melts from that to a more determined look, and she nods in understanding.

“Well then- I’ll see you off.”

After getting your horses and bidding your farewells to Zelda, you make your way through Castle Town, doing your best to avoid the curious words and looks from the townsfolk.

Once you are outside of the gates, you take a deep breath- letting the fresh air of the wild and unknown fill your lungs. You hoped it would ease the uneasiness in your chest, but you’ve come to realize the anxiousness has yet to leave. You have to find a way to get rid of this necklace so you can enjoy the quest you’ve waited so long for. Otherwise, you’re nothing more than a burden- and all of this pain would be for naught.

You can’t allow that.

“It’s a shame the Sheikah Slate isn’t working- this mission would be much faster with it. Although, traveling the old fashioned way will be nice.” Link says as he comes up beside you a top Epona, his posture so straight it looks like he’s being held up by a string. It reminds you to fix your own posture.

Since when did you slouch?

“You’re awfully quiet. I don’t think you’ve said a word for the past thirty minutes. I don’t even think I heard you talk to Nyx which was, undoubtedly, the most shocking thing of all.” He jests, his cerulean eyes studying your unsmiling face.

His words blend into the background noise of nature, a faint buzz in the back of your mind. You are deeply troubled at the moment, and it leads you to be stuck in a parade of thoughts in your head. Not to mention the sun is so bright- so very bright. It even feels as if it’s burning you through your clothes. The dizziness hasn’t left either- when was the last time you had water?

You pull your water pouch out of your saddlebag, taking a cautious sip. Nausea seems to have tagged along for the adventure as well.

You take note that your chest is noticeably numbed. How strange….

“Y/N?”

You jolt at the sound of your own name. Link gives you that odd look again.

“Do you want to stop and rest? You look awfully pale.” He offers, slowing Epona to a mere trot.

You scoff. “Link we literally just left, I’m fine. It’s just because I didn’t get enough sleep.”

“So which one is it then?” He asks, tilting his head in your direction. You snap Nyx’s reigns, urging her ahead of Link. He always has so many questions.

“Which what?” You question.

Link ends up beside you once more, his eyes gazing over your face. “This morning when I knocked on the door, you said you overslept. Now it’s that you didn’t get enough sleep. So which is it?”

Your grip becomes tense upon the reigns causing Nyx to falter in her movement. “I-” You glance at him nervously. You gulp when you see he caught your skittish glance.

Your mind reels as you try to think of an excuse other than the grungy wound on your chest, and then you remember the perfect lie- it always works on Link.

“Well I didn’t want to have to say it- but if you so insist on being nosey, I started my cycle last night so forgive me if I'm looking a tad pale.” You smirk lightly, reveling in the awkward silence. You know for a fact Link is as red as an apple behind you. It makes you smile even more.

You expect the rest of the trip will be very quiet.

Later that evening, you and Link set up camp in a small forested area Northwest of Windvane Meadow. Fireflies flash their green vibrancy in rather unsystematically, yet beautifully at the same time, as if they are all dancing offbeat to a song only they can hear. The sky remains clear above you, stars glistening overhead. You both sit comfortably around the fire, almost shoulder to shoulder, the document given to you by Zelda in your hands.

“So this-” You point to the roughly drawn symbol before you, showing it to Link, “-this is the Colosseum. At least I believe it to be.”

Link looks up from the paper, squinting as he makes out the moonlit silhouette of the Colosseum in the distance. You look at it too- but then you find yourself following his gaze right back to the source, and you become completely entranced by the reflection of moonlight in his eyes. It makes the cerulean blue you often stare into practically glow in the darkness. Like bioluminescence or something.

He’s just…

“-beautiful.”

Your eyes widen- you weren’t listening to a word he just said.

“W-what??” You ask nervously, your voice a higher pitch than it should be. You really hope he didn’t notice that.

He chuckles a little, his laughter a soothing yet mocking sound. You have a love-hate relationship with it.

He gestures to the astounding architecture before you with a tilt of his chin, a nostalgic grin plastered upon his face.

“I was just saying, the Colosseum must’ve been beautiful.”

You look back at the building- suddenly curious as to what amazing events must’ve been held there. How you would’ve loved to have seen it.

“Are you implying that a man of your old age didn’t even get to see it?” You jest, a crooked smile finding your lips.

Link rolls his eyes, waving a hand at you dismissively.

“You’re right though-” You look back to the Colosseum again. “It really must’ve been an amazing sight to see.”

….

“Well maybe, one day, I can persuade Zelda to have it rebuilt for you. Bigger and better than it ever was before.”

You bring your eyes to Link, suddenly realizing that he was watching you that whole time. A rosy blush rises on your face, and you look down at your hands bashfully.

“We… we should probably get some rest. It’s gotten pretty late.” You note, standing as fast as you can. In doing so, you feel a slight twinge of pain. Talking with Link has made you seem to forget all about your wound and the mission. It was nice while it lasted.

“Yeah you’re probably right. I’ll get my things.”

You both go to your beloved steeds, and Link, with great ease, pulls his bed roll off of Epona's back and lays it on the ground, prepping it for sleep.

You don’t get very far. You lift your arms, prepared to grab your bed roll, and a rush of pain shoots down your arms and a flash of color zips through your veins. You gasp at the sharp infliction, thankfully unknowingly getting Link’s attention after the glowing stops. You suck your lips in and pray to the goddesses that he might not have noticed.

A warm hand on your shoulder says otherwise.

“Y/N? Hey-” Link drags his fingers up and down your arm, his other hand reaching for your face- but he pauses for a moment, his eyes going back and forth between your own, and pulls them back. “ Are you okay?”

Your face turns red out of fear- fear that he can see through your facade. You suddenly find it hard to breathe. You let your eyelids fall, trying to coerce yourself to stay calm. But you feel so scared- so alone even though your best friend is standing right next to you. You wish you could tell him.

But you can’t.

Instead you plaster on a smile.

“Oh yeah- yeah, I’m alright. I forgot to tell you that I strained my arm the other day. So it’s- it’s just a sore shoulder.”

Link steps back, his hand leaving your arm. You sigh softly at the loss of his touch.

“Oh.” Is all he says, rubbing his own shoulder.

“I’m gonna- um…” Your voice trembles. The way he’s looking at you pains you so. He looks hurt. He knows you're lying. He has to. “-I’ll be back.”

“Wha- where are you going??” Link blusters, his arms held up beside him.

You ignore him and walk deeper into the woods, silent crystalline tears sliding down your face.

“It’s too dangerous to go alone Y/N!” He yells out behind you. You start running, your hair whipping in the wind. Once you are out of the forest, you keep running in the meadow. Running, and running, and running.

You eventually reach the center of the meadow, and you trip on a loose stone in the ground. It sends you tumbling to the grassy floor of the earth. You let out gasps of air when you finally lay still against the green, each one coming out harsher than the one before. The fall knocked the air out of your lungs, each new bruise pulsing under your skin. Your chest aches terribly. You only hope the burning doesn’t trigger somehow.

You just lay there, gasping, looking up at the sky. You have a feeling you aren’t going to make it out of this. Every bone in your body feels as if it harbors an evil. An evil you’ve never experienced. It’s strong- and it becomes stronger with every beat of your heart.

You lay a hand on your chest, feeling the lump of metal embedded in your skin beneath your chainmail. Letting your eyes close- you let tears slide down your face to join the dirt. You feel at peace- for just a moment. You feel the grass beneath you, the gentle breeze caressing your skin.

And then you hear a voice- the sound of horses hooves beating against the ground. More than one horse…

You abruptly sit up, feeling as if the whole scene is in slow motion. You see Boko’s- three of them, all atop horses, their clubs and spears raised, all racing toward you. You turn to your right and see Link emerging from the tree line, yelling frenetically, his hand going for his sword at his side.

You realize in that moment that you are unarmed- how stupid of you to forget such a thing. You stand quickly, knowing you have to run. Link will never reach you at this rate, he’s too far.

You look back- the Boko’s are close. You move to run- but then you think.

Maybe this is a good thing.

Facing Link's direction, the Boko’s to your back- you stop. Link’s expression becomes more crazed. You can see the fear on his face from where you stand. You would fear losing him like this too- but you know that it’s for the best.

With a deep breath, you close your eyes once more, and turn around, accepting your fate.

The beating over hooves gets closer and closer- and you await your death…

Chapter Text

The beating of hooves gets closer and closer- and you await your death…

Yet it never comes.

Your eyes shoot open, and all three horses rear up in front of you. The Boko’s menacing expressions fade. They tilt their heads curiously, sniffing the air. You stand stoic in front of them, watching in awe as you stare into the eyes of the monsters that could brutally murder you with the swipe of their weapons.

They look at each other almost comically, then back at you and release animalistic howls that make your ears ring. But you still don’t flinch- too amazed by what just occurred.

They turn around, giving you one last glance, and snap their horses reigns harshly, taking off in the same direction they came.

You watch them go, and then a hand meets your shoulder.

Link spins you around to face him, his expression wild and streams of sweat pouring down his face. For the first time in a while,

he seems scared.

“Y/N what- why-” He huffs, his hands going from your face to your arms and your waist, the warmth radiating from his fingers leaving goosebumps in their wake. His hands stop on your face, his eyes going back and forth between your own far off gaze. He shakes you to pull your attention to him, calling your name, and you finally budge, almost like you’ve gained consciousness for the first time.

“Are you okay? I swear to the gods if they touched you-“

You nod your head, looking off in the distance at the monsters patrolling the field.

“Y/N- w-why would you just stand there? Were you trying to get yourself killed?”

“I-“ you look back at him. Your eyebrows pinched. “I don’t know…”

“You don’t know?!?” Link walks in a circle, his hand on his forehead. “Y/N- you can’t just… you can’t do that!” He pauses, his expression displaying what you would call shock. “What would have happened if they didn’t just turn away like they did? They would’ve-“

“That was weird wasn’t it?” You interject, your palm laid gently on your chest.

Link frowns. “What?” He spats.

“The Boko’s- they just… turned away.”

“And thank the goddesses they did, or you would be a bloody pool in the dirt.” Link scoffs angrily.

“Link come on, don’t be like that. Please. I’m- I’m sorry.”

“No, you come on.” He grabs your wrist. “We are going back to camp, and we are getting some damn sleep. And tomorrow, we are heading to the Colosseum and completing the mission together.”

You sigh, letting Link drag you back to camp. You’ve done enough for today. In your departure, you look back at the Boko’s, now small dots in the distance. You wonder why they let you live.

You believe you know a pretty good reason why.

The next day, you get atop your horses, and head on your way to the Colosseum. Zelda had written that down on the list of locations that was found in the book the cloaked person had dropped. You have failed to figure out exactly what to expect here- but honestly, what do you expect?

Link has been particularly silent today, his demeanor cold and to be quite frank, scary as hell. You haven’t seen him like this since a citizen flat out called you worthless at the Market in Castle Town. He was royally pissed, beat the guy's ass, and then didn’t speak for a day or two. It was probably just old habits surfacing, but goddesses , do you hate when it does. It’s him shutting you out, blocking you from getting in his head, from getting into his emotions. You wish he could learn that he isn’t in the past anymore. He’s not at fault. He’s just a person, just like you are, and just like Hyrules citizens. Except one thing is different. He was chosen.

The back of his hand bears the symbol of the Triforce. His being the Triforce of courage. A weight he has to carry. A weight he thinks he must carry alone. He doesn’t realize how many people he has to hold him up to keep his back from breaking and his heart from sinking. He blames himself over and over.

You wish he would just let you in. You wish he knew…

You tug on Nyx’s reigns, overlooking the world beyond. The wind pulls at your hair, your mind pulls at your heart. What are you trying to say? You glance at Link ahead of you, his back as straight as usual. Oh how you wish to massage his sore shoulders. To make him feel safe, happy…

And loved.

“Y/N.” Link says sternly yet simply enough for you to understand.

You wish you would be pulled from your thoughts at the sound of his voice- unfortunately it just makes it worse. A faint blush, whether from embarrassment or… your feelings- dusts your cheekbones, it’s hazy color enhanced in the clementine lighting of the sunrise.

Oh how you wish you could tell him-

just how sorry you are.

The crumbling stone architecture of the Colosseum towers around you, it’s magnificence filtering morning light through its cracks. The air becomes slightly chilled, both of you now doused in the transparency of shade.

You had expected there to be at least something here, but you quickly observe that there is nothing. Your hope dwindles, yet you hardly notice- excitement still flutters in your abdomen. It’s such a thrill to be thrown into the unknown.

You carefully slide of Nyx, only flinching slightly when your feet hit the ground. Link follows suit.

“Maybe we guessed the wrong location.” You surmise, looking around the large empty space.

“Don’t give up just yet. Look around for any signs someone’s been here.”

After a quick pat to Epona’s broad shoulder, Link heads off to investigate the left side of the structure. You watch him as he goes, a sympathetic frown tugging at your lips. Those were the first words he’s spoken to you all morning, yet they sting. The lack of eye contact is really the killer.

You huff and decide to focus your attention on the objective. Finding signs of unwelcome visitors.

You look around for a while, sparing a couple looks at Link, when something odd catches your eye. A couple of feet away, the wall appears to be a different color. Upon closer inspection, you realize it’s built with stacked up rocks. You hold your hand up, feeling a draft of cold air seeping through the cracks.

“Hey Link-“ your voice echoes throughout the space. “Take a look at this…”

Link runs over, his gaze following yours.

“Do you think-?” He starts to ask, only to be interrupted by you pulling the rocks, letting them tumble to your feet.

“I’lil take that as a yes.” Link mutters before he begins to help you.

Soon enough a cavernous opening is revealed, lit torches adorning its walls. You assume it continues further since you can see the haze of orange light around the corner of dirt and rock.

“Come on, let’s go.” You march into the darkness, not giving it another thought. You have a specific type of hatred for these sorts of things.

“Y/N wait, we need a plan first- we don’t know what we are walking into!” Link says as he calls after you.

You stop. “We don’t have time for that Link!” You say back, a tinge of frustration in your voice.

Link sighs. He catches up to you and puts a hand on your shoulder.

“Okay… but just promise me you won’t do anything impulsive.”

You say nothing, and look back and forth between his eyes, a devious smile finds your lips. You dash down the hallway in an instant.

“I did not like that look Y/N- come back here right now! Y/N!”

You keep running down the hall, your boots making a faint noise every time they hit the ground. You can hear Link following behind, as he always does when you act this way, and it brings a smile to your lips. Yeah…

You missed this.

Finally, you seem to reach the end of the spiraling cavernous corridor where you are met with a roughly made doorway. You lean your back against the wall, preparing your ears to listen for any voices or signs of life. Link presses his back against the wall as well once he catches up.

“Are you crazy??” He whispers sharply, his voice tinged with irritation.

“Yes, I am.” You reply quietly. “Now be quiet so we can listen.”

You pause for a moment, listening, and listening, and listening, yet you hear not a sound. You peek around the corner-

only to find that there is not a single cloaked being in sight.

You sigh, revealing yourself to the dingy room. “Damn it… thought we had something here.” You put your hands on your hips overlooking the bare tables and empty walls, a sense of disappointment overcoming you. You had hoped that someone might have been here- a whole group of them even. Just someone to beat the shit out of for the fun of it. Alas, you were only dished more boredom.

“We still might.” Link says confidently, answering to your last statement while standing in front of one of the desks.

You walk over and notice a sheet of old parchment in front of him, perfectly placed on the center of the wooden surface.

“What is this? Another map?” You ask curiously, your eyes darting all over the paper.

“Looks like it.” Link responds, flipping over the paper. “Doesn’t look like this place has a name though… I’m not sure where it’s located either. It doesn’t look familiar to me…”

“Well, those lines look like water right?” You point to the swirly lines decorating the negative space of the map, each one done in black ink.

“Wait… I think this is an island.” Link pauses, squinting at the parchment to study it further. “Hmm…” he hums lightly in thought, turning the document at different angles.

“It doesn’t resemble Eventide at all.” He concludes.

You expel a breath in relief. “I was hoping you would say that. I prefer not to relive the horrid memories of that place.” A chill goes up your spine, and you shiver comedically.

Link’s face however turns crimson red at the remembrance of that place. How you were both robbed of your clothes… practically naked in each other’s presence. He would rather die than admit to you the feelings that arose in him seeing you in such a condition. He opted for respect instead. Thankfully…

Link clears his throat awkwardly, flapping the paper in his hands to remove any wrinkles, and continues looking at it, ignoring your last words.

“This- um… this island is definitely one we haven’t seen before.” He points out, his voice shaking in the slightest.

You laugh. “Uh- yeah? Thought we already discovered that when we ruled out Eventide.”

Links eyes widen. “Oh… yeah. Yeah you’re right.”

“Just a thought, but maybe, since y’know, they live on the shore… maybe we should take this map to the Chief of Lurelin. He might be able to help us. And actually…” you pull the other document from your satchel, pointing to the last symbol on the paper from Zelda. “Seems our last destination is right around there.”

“Oh- that’s perfect then.” Link smiles, rolling up the new map you’ve discovered. Once he’s done, he hands it to you. “And hold onto that since you have that fancy bag.”

You laugh, stashing the map away with a smile. “And I wonder who gifted me said ‘fancy bag’ even though I was perfectly fine with my last one.”

Link turns to you in disbelief, a slight smile still gracing his lips. “That bag was hanging on for dear life. It was more of a life saver than a present.”

“Oh please, that bag was perfectly fine!” You counter, your hands placed sassily on your hips.

Link crosses his arms, an eyebrow raised. “You tried to glue the strap back together with chu-chu jelly.”

“Okay so I was a little undereducated on the properties of monster parts- but had I been, that bag would’ve been perfectly fine!”

“Uh-huh.” Link laughs as he begins to exit the secret-hideout, with you following close behind laughing with him as you usually do. Yeah, you definitely missed this. The adventure, the mystery, the adrenaline, his smile, and…

just him.

You missed him. A lot.

You say this as if you haven’t been spending every waking day with him, but the…
the necklace… it’s changed something about you both. And you hate it. Although it’s only been two days, you can tell he knows something’s wrong. And he knows you’re lying. You’re glad to see his smile back after the incident yesterday, but you fear it won’t be around as much as you’d like.

You just have to hold off his concern for now so that you can solve this on the down low. Then, you and Link can laugh and have fun all the time- and you won’t have to worry about hurting him anymore.

Should be easy right?

Abruptly, in the dimness of the spiraling staircase, a few feet behind Link, you burst into a violent coughing fit, each one making your chest ache profusely. You grasp at your throat, bracing yourself on the wall. Sure enough, Links at your side, his hand on your back.

His touch feels like fire.

“Link…” you cough again. “Link I’m… fine.” You manage to get out, your voice scratchy and strained.

“No- no you’re not.” Link says sternly, his face unamused.

As if like magic, or by the grace of the gods, the coughing subsides, and you straighten yourself out, subtly removing yourself from his touch.

With a fake smile plastered on your lips, you look at him, convincingly.

“See? Told you I’m fine. It was just from the dust in here I’m sure.”

Link does what he does best. He observes every single one of your movements. It’s like a test. One you can master usually- but anxiety is telling you he can see right through.

He can see your pain.

“Y/N is-“ He begins, but you quickly interrupt him.

Out of fear, you blurt the first thing you can think of right off the top of your head. “W-we should probably get back to our horses, they’ve been by themselves for a while. You know how Nyx is- always hungry!” You quickly remove yourself from the situation, cringing as soon as you’re turned around. Way to be smooth about that Y/N…

“They’ve been alone for like- thirty minutes…?” Link says to himself, sighing in discontentment, his shoulders visibly dropping. He knows something is going on with you- and it’s not ‘girl problems’ as you put it earlier. He knows you. He’s known you for a while. Something’s off about you.

And he’s going to find out.

Chapter Text

“I’ll take a-“

“Let me guess, a bundle of arrows?.” Beedle interjects, a knowing look on his face. You chuckle and toss Beedle a handful of rupees, his brows furrowing at the sight. “Um- are you aware this is about… hmmm… ten times more than the price?” You nod, a grin pulling on your lips. “I’m aware.”

Beedle has been a huge part of saving the world, whether he believes it or not. During the Calamity, he was your known source of arrows. Then, you weren’t exactly the richest- but now, being a Royal Knight, you find money comes easy. You wish you could’ve done this for him back then, Goddess Hylia knows he deserves it

“W-w-wow! Thank you Y/N… this is unbelievable!” Beedle reaches behind him, pulling out the bundle of arrows you paid for. You reach for it, but Beedle holds up a finger. “Wait just a moment…. I need to find something…..”

You laugh at his antics, shaking your head. While waiting, you cross your arms, searching the area for your best friend. You catch eyes with Link who is talking to the stable hand, most likely securing your beds for the night, and he smiles, waving a gloved hand in your direction. The setting sunlight is hitting his complexion perfectly, setting his golden hair ablaze and making his blue eyes glow. You don’t think you will ever stop admiring him. You have to admit, he is a pretty man.

“So are you two a thing yet?”

You are snapped out of your trance, your mouth hanging agape in shock and an aggressive blush rises to the surface of your cheeks.

“W-what? No- absolutely not. We are just- just friends….” You nervously correct Beedle who’s looking at you with a raised brow.

“Sureee…” he draws out, clearly unconvinced. You try to ignore it as best as you can, fiddling with your cuticles. “Anyways-“ he tosses a second canvas pouch on the table, its contents concealed with a red ribbon. “Take these. As a thank you for such a generous payment.”

“Oh no I couldn’t Beedle, the money was a thank you for all that you’ve done for us, it wasn’t meant to-“

Beedle pushes it toward you. “Well now I’m thanking you back, Y/N. You have always been a favorite customer of mine.”

You sigh, shaking your head with a smile, and you pick up the satchel, peeking in with wide eyes.

“They were given to me on a road to Lurelin. She called herself a master of the art of swords- she seemed quick and nervous… traded them for a hefty sack of apples. I, of course, was happy to have traded for such rare antiquities. And well, when you gave me such a generous gift, it seemed the universe urged me to give those to you. It seems it was meant to be.”

You pull one of the throwing knives out of the pouch, watching as it sparkles even in the dim interior of the stable. Its handle is crafted with some kind of stained red wood, adorned with beautifully whittled lines painted a striking gold. The metal is dark, made of material that is unfamiliar to you. They seem sacred in nature.

Your eyes light up, observing them in their full glory.

“Beedle, oh my goddesses these are beautiful- thank you so much.”

“Of course- I hope they serve well on your mission of butt kicking- or whatever it might be.” He smiles.

You laugh softly, but then you feel a presence behind you. Looking over your shoulder you see Link observing the knife in your hand, his gaze thoughtful and focused. He’s so close, you can feel his breath on your neck. It causes very unwanted feelings. When Link realizes you’ve noticed him, and the close proximity you’re in, your face ignites in an embarrassing display of red.

It seems your quick head turn caught him off guard, because the only thing he says is “Bed.” his tanned face now dusted a violent scarlet. You look at him questioningly, eyes wide with shock.

Did you hear him correctly?

He backs away, pointing at the stable beds.

“I got us a bed.” Your face reddens further, you swallow thickly, suddenly choking on your spit.

Links hit with more realization at what he said, and begins frantically waving his arms in front of him. “No- wait. Beds. Not bed. We aren’t sleeping together- I got us 2 beds. See? One, two. Two beds.” He nods.

“I’m sensing some very awkward tension- so I think I’ll take my leave. Good luck on whatever crazy mission you’re on this time lovebirds.” Beedle chuckles before picking himself up and leaving.

Still holding your throat after choking, you glare at the back of Beedles head, trying not to admit to yourself that he is right. That was terribly awkward.

Link face palms, partially to hide the redness on his face.

He can truly be an idiot sometimes.

[][][]

Night falls, and you lay in your quaint stable bed, tucked into the sheets- staring at the ceiling. Sleeping doesn’t come as easy to you as it used to- you blame that on the wound in your chest. It hasn’t hurt as badly as it did when it quite literally seared itself into your skin- but some movements can trigger a twinge of pain. Surprisingly, most of the time- you can’t feel it as much as you thought you would. It’s almost like… like it’s lying dormant, waiting to strike at any moment. Maybe it’s just waiting to tear through you with the unbearable pain of sizzling hot metal-

Maybe it’ll burn straight through you, melting your skin and bones….

That thought alone is enough to make you rise from your bed, a shaky hand resting on your forehead. You have to get some fresh air before you have a full blown panic attack.

With great haste, you jump from bed, slide your boots on and throw your satchel over your shoulder, eager to get outside. You quickly glance at Link to make sure he’s still asleep and then make your exit.

When you’re outside, you lean up against the large tree, crossing your arms and looking up to the stars. Your heart starts to slow and you take a deep breath, absorbing the calmness of the earth. You let your senses over take you. You feel the bark of the tree against your back, the shirt on your torso, and the satchel on your hip. You smell the campfire roaring at the stable and the earthiness of the dirt beneath you. You see the swaying branches, the twinkling stars, the passing clouds. You hear the spinning wheels of a carriage come to a screeching hault, the desperate and frantic voice of a man-

Wait a minute….

You jerk your head to set your eyes on the commotion, and sure enough, a man jumps out of a carriage, and a woman, who you assume to be his wife, sits slouched over groaning in pain in the seat next to him.

The man is still frantically speaking to the Stable Owner when you get over there. He’s a mess. His red hair is clearly greasy from days of travel, and his eyes are wide and bloodshot. You hold a hand out to calm him.

“Sir- please calm down. Can you tell me what’s wrong?” You ask in your knightly voice.

He grabs you by both shoulders, desperation seeping from his intense gaze.

“My wife, she’s fallen ill- she’s… she’s pregnant-“

“Sir, you do realize illness and nausea is a common side effect of pregnancy right?” The stable hand interjects.

The man shoots him a glare. “Of course I do, I’ve taken her to every doctor in a 1,000 mile radius. She’s suffering from a terminal condition, one rare for pregnant women.” He looks down, a deep frown pulling at his lips. “She doesn’t have much time.”

You quirk a brow, a rather insensitive question on the tip of your tongue. “So-“

The man looks you dead in the eyes, his expression full of determination.

“So, I need someone trained in combat to escort me and my wife through Ludfo’s Bog. And if I recall correctly, you are one of the Queens Knights, no?”

You cross your arms, still confused. “Well, yes, I am. But why do you need me to escort you through Ludfo’s Bog?”

“Because there’s supposedly a Hinox blocking the way, and I need you to fight it.” He pushes past you, making way to his wagon.

“Woah, woah, woah.” You follow him with your eyes, a stern expression playing upon your features. “Blocking what exactly?

He turns to you, an arm around his sick wife, his hand holding hers.

“The Healing Witch.”

Your hand reflexively finds its way to your wound. “A Healing Witch?” You mumble to yourself in total disbelief. It’s as if light enters your body once more- a light you call hope. Everything has seemed so dreary, so far away… but now, every possibility has come rushing back. Your future seems tangible for the first time in days.

But this isn’t about you. You need to help these people…

They come first.

You run in the stable, quietly tip-toeing to your bed to retrieve your bow, being cautious as to not wake Link. He’s a drooling mess in his bed as usual. He’s always slept better in the stables. You feel a crooked smile find your lips, watching the rise and fall of his chest.

You place your fingers on your lips, hoping it will ease the urge to place a kiss upon his forehead.

Reaching into your bag, you pull out your journal, skipping past your most recent entries and ripping an uneven piece of parchment out. Taking your charcoal pencil, you write Link a small note.

‘I’ll be back by morning.
Don’t worry about me. -Y/N’

You lay it on your bed, knowing damn well if you put it in his it would get lost in the sheets- maybe he’d even eat it in his sleep. You laugh a little at that thought. You can’t even imagine sleeping in the same bed as him.

You stop in your tracks, looking back at his sleeping form. Thoughts start to take shape- ones that are entirely too inappropriate for the current situation. Your face gets hot at the thought of being tangled up in the same sheets as him…

Okay so maybe you can imagine it…

You quickly tear your eyes away from him, fighting those thoughts away. You feel ashamed thinking of your friend that way- but at the same time… do you even want to be just his friend?

You shake your head, adjusting your satchel- there’s no time for this. You have a job to do.

Besides, you’re sure he doesn’t feel what you feel.

You emerge from the shadows of the stable, your bow in hand.

“Alright, let’s get a move on”

[][][][]

The road to Ludfo’s Bog is frantic and bumpy, mirroring the uneven beating of your heart. Nonetheless, you whip the reins, urging the pale horse to go faster. You had helped the man move his wife to the back, offering her more comfort and support for what you both knew would be a hellish ride.

“We’re almost there.” You shout over your shoulder, hoping to offer the man some comfort. You wish you could’ve gotten a name so you could call him something other than ‘the man’, but he’s far too distraught to even think of introductions. That’s completely understandable to you though. If you were in a dire situation such as his, unsure of whether your loved one is going to live or not, you would be acting the same.

You’d do anything to protect Link.

Ludfos Bog appears around the bend, it’s swampy nature and mushroom like trees illuminated with the glow of fireflies. You snap the reins once more- and when you find yourself close enough, you pull back, forcing the horse to slow down and come to a slow stop. Once safe to do so, you hop from the wagon, reaching across the seat to grab your bow before you make your way to the back.

“Please hurry,” the man begs when you come into sight, his grip on his wife as tenacious as it was before. “Her pulse is slowing- I don’t know if she’s going to last the next five minutes- or… or even the next five seconds-“

You jump into the back with ease, and kneel down beside him, letting your hand rest on his shoulder in a comforting gesture. He looks up at you with tired, teary eyes, and your heart aches. Your gaze slips to his wife, bundled in a blanket, tucked against his chest and fast asleep with her hand wrapped around her abdomen. You can’t imagine how that must feel for him. It hurts you to even see.

You have to help them. She has to live.

“Listen, I know this is hard, but I need you to stay calm.” you wrap a blanket around his shoulders, “what we are about to get into is something we can’t go into in hysterics. I need you ready for whatever comes our way. If not for me or you, then for your wife.” He looks down and nods, brushing a strand of hair away from her ill-stricken face. You look out to the bog, thinking. After a moment you speak, intensity tied with your words.

“If this plan doesn’t work, I need you to run as fast as you can. The Hinox will be focused on me before it’s focused on you.” He looks up at you, wide eyed.

“But most importantly, I need you to trust me, and listen to every order I give you.”

He nods once again, determination set into his grayed features. “Okay. I trust you.”

••••••

You realize now that you had forgotten to ask for directions, but you figure it would be easy to spot a Hinox anyways, and you would be correct.

Laying on a reserve of mushy grass, lies a blue Hinox, his stomach rising and falling with each hefty breath he takes during his deep slumber. You study your surroundings, looking for any advantages in nature. You find only trees to hide behind, or trees it can throw if you’re not quick enough. The only thing you can think to do is try and sneak around it- or face it head on if it comes to it. You don’t have time for strategy. Now that you really think about it- you never do.

You turn sharply, and look at the man, your voice low and serious.

“It’s asleep, and it should stay that way- as long as you stay calm and follow my exact path.”

He nods sharply in response, readjusting his wife’s weight in his arms. You let your hand reside on your bow, and with the other hand, you gesture for him to follow. You look down at the ground, careful to avoid sticks that could snap and awaken the Hinox at any moment. Once you are safe behind the second tree, you peer around its trunk, getting a quick look to ensure it hasn’t been disturbed. You nod to the man, and continue on to the third tree, and then the fourth, and then the fifth.

“We are almost in the clear.” You whisper just loud enough for him to hear. He forces a smile, and you force one back. Even though you find this situation awfully exciting, you will never admit it to a man carrying his half dead wife. That’s a secret you can keep to yourself.

Just as you are rounding the tree, thoroughly exposed to the world, a faint voice calls out, “Frea? Where are we?” Your eyes snap shut immediately.

Well fuck.

You feel the ground start to rumble, the Hinox’s snores already stifled. Frea tries to calm his wife with soothing words, but she surely sees the Hinox, and she shrieks in terror. You remove your bow from your back and knock a bomb arrow, your brows pinched as you face the Hinox.

“Stay behind me- and don’t move if you want to live.”

You hear nothing but silence behind you- it’s safe to assume his wife passed out in fear of her life.

The Hinox takes one rumbling step, and by the second, you have your bow aimed directly at its hideous yellow eyeball, and your heart races. Not out of fear, but out of excitement and confusion. Because by the second step, the Hinox stops and it’s eyelids squint together scrutinizingly, as if it’s studying you, but you don’t lower your bow. You stand strong in the face of uncertainty.

“What’s it doing?” Frea whisper shouts behind you.

“Nothing.” You respond after a moment, your voice filled with fascination. “It’s going to do nothing.”

As if like magic, the Hinox falls on its butt, practically causing an earthquake, and it lays its head on the grass, resuming its sleep.

You chuckle in disbelief, sheathing your bow in place.

“What the- I- how?” Frea jumbles his words behind you, his face stricken with pure shock.

“Come on, show me the way to the healer.” You say with a nod of your head, somehow completely calm. You know something strange is going on with you. For some reason- you can almost control the monsters that roam this kingdom. It’s like- they respect you. Your palm finds its way to your chest, and you swallow thickly.

This necklace is far more complex than you thought.

[][][][][]

“I- I don’t get it. It- they said it would be here. W-where- I can’t…” Frea splutters anxiously.

Before you lies an empty plot of land at the bottom of the cliff- just as you remembered it.

You look at him sadly, watching him lose himself in distress. He’s frantic, desperate not to lose his wife. You can see it by the crazed look in his eyes. He’s going to go insane without her. The pain on his face is more real than anything you’ve ever seen- It’s pure, filled with anguish. You feel so terribly sorry for this man.

You take a step toward him, reaching out to comfort him- but something else catches your attention. The heel of your boot hits something solid- unlike the mushy wetland ground you’ve been accustomed to for the past fifteen minutes. You lift your boot, and gasp at the glowing blue symbol etched into stone slate.

“Frea, look!” You point out in excitement. His eyes go wide just as the ground begins to rumble furiously beneath you both, sending you to your asses in the dirt. Before you, a small cottage emerges from the dirt, stones and clumps of mud roll off its rooftop, and the grass bends around its exterior. You immediately jump up, not wasting another second and hoist Frea to his feet. You rap on the door that reeks of earth, trying to ignore the sudden ache in your chest. You can hear Frea comforting his wife beside you, even though she is fast asleep- and despite the grim reality of this situation, you smile at the strong relationship those two have. You hope you can have something that real someday.

Just as your mind is about to drift off to think of Link- the door swings open, and you turn red in shock. A beautiful woman, tall and slender stands in the doorway, her raven black hair curled perfectly against her collarbone. Her sharp lilac eyes snap to your own, and you freeze in fear, her gaze sending a chill down your spine. Her attention drifts to Frea, and then to his wife.

Just as he is about to open his mouth, surely for an explanation, she holds out a finger- silencing him.

“Let me guess, your wife is on the verge of death, you are here to beg me to heal her, but oh wait, plot twist, she’s also pregnant! So now I have to save not one but two mortal lives?”

You look at the witch in disbelief- how utterly insensitive of her to talk that way to a clearly distraught man.

“I-“ Frea begins, but he’s quickly interrupted.

“Come, come, get inside.” The witch says with a roll of her eyes.

You begin to walk towards the doorway, but she stops you with a long black nail to your chest. You grunt briefly in pain due to the impact, and she scowls at you like you’re the scum of the earth.

“Not you. You stay here, evil one.”

Your heart stutters at the nickname. Evil one? You stand on the doorstep in complete shock as she slams the door in your face, leaving you with your thoughts. You slump against the door, facing the twilight. Your chest burns with acid rising in your throat. Evil one…. you clutch at your throat, feeling it tighten. No. Not here. Not now.

You take a deep breath, in and out, over and over to ease the panic bubbling in your stomach. You tell yourself over and over that you will be fine, everything will be okay. Surely this can’t be as bad as you thought. Usually that’s just your anxiety right? There’s nothing to worry about. Just a simple spell and poof, it’s gone. You’re going to be perfectly fine.

Yeah, perfectly fine….

Abruptly, the door swings open, and you swing your arms frantically to try and catch yourself, but you fail, and fall backwards, your head landing at the witches feet.

“Ugh, you humans are so dramatic.” She sighs.

With a twirl of her finger, you feel a gust of air sweep under you, lifting you from the ground. You quickly dust off your clothes in embarrassment, a sheepish grin on your face.

Behind her, Frea emerges with his wife, both of them holding hands with smiles on their faces and tears in their eyes. It brings a smile to your face as well to see them happy and healthy. You’re so glad you got them here in time.

Frea approaches you, his wife following behind, and he offers a hand. You grab it, and he gives you a firm shake.

“Thank you so much for helping us Y/N. We are forever indebted to you for your service. Now my wife and my child can live out their lives, because of you.” He sends you a genuine smile, and it warms your heart.

“Anything for the citizens of Hyrule.”

He releases your hand, and in a flash, his wife practically tackles you in a hug. You’re shocked, but you hug her back after a moment. She deserves it after such a hard night.

Once she’s satisfied, she clasps your hands in hers and smiles. She says nothing, but you can see the radiance of happiness on her face. Frea chimes in after a moment.

“She’s thanking you for everything you’ve done. My dearest is mute, so she cannot respond. But I always know what my sweet Elucidie means.”

Your face falls for a moment- but… she spoke before, when you were trying to sneak past the Hinox… she definitely was not mute. Your eyes flash to the witch for a moment, and she grins wickedly. You glare at her but quickly recover with a smile, as you are still holding Elucidie’s hands in your own.

“I appreciate that sincerely Elucidie. I’m glad you and the little one are okay now.”

You look back to the witch that is casually stirring a cup of tea.

“Would it be alright if you two wait outside for just a moment?” You ask them, your gaze never leaving the witch.

Frea looks to Elucidie with a confused glance, but he nods, taking her hands in his own.

“Y-yeah of course.”

After they are gone, you stomp towards the witch, your hand resting on your satchel of arrows.

“What did you do to her?” You seethe through your clenched teeth.

The witch giggles, dropping the spoon in her tea.

“Sweetness, everything comes at a cost.”

You stand there, sternly, in silence, your glare sharp and filled with rage.

“And you dare have the audacity to call me evil one?” You fume, your hand instinctively finding the cold metal beneath your shirt.

The witch stands, her head thrown back in laughter.

‘Oh but you are, evil one. I could feel the malice practically seeping from your perfect little pores. It seems you’ve gotten yourself into quite the predicament.” She side eyes you as she pours a second cup of tea.

“What are you talking about?”

“Don’t be a fool. You know exactly what I speak of.” She sets the tea down on the table, pointing at the seat across from her. “Sit.” She demands curtly, sipping her tea.

You are reluctant, but out of pure curiosity you sit- secretly eager to hear more.

“The amulet that you bear, singed to your chest, is what we witches call an anathema.”

“A curse?” You add, trying your best to understand.

“Yes- well, to be precise, a cursed object. Someone of great evil has put a curse on that necklace with the intention of giving it a bearer- which just so happened to be one of the saviors of Hyrule.” She leans across the table studying your face, her midnight colored hair draping across the wooden surface of the table in a pool of black.

“Does the swordsman know of your condition?” She asks after an uncomfortable amount of time, her eyes wide as if she’s getting the town's latest gossip.

You look down in shame, focusing on a loose thread on your pants.

“No. He does not.” You mutter.

The witch sets down her tea, clapping her hands together excitedly.

“What about the Queen?”

You look away, biting your lip with your eyebrows pinched. You feel so terrible for lying to them.

“She doesn’t know either? Oh my, well isn’t that just a juicy tidbit of information!” She gets another sip of tea. You are finding her giddiness to be extremely off-putting.

You rub your arm. “Well I guess I was hoping you could help me fix that.”

The witch chuckles. “Oh darling, I would if I could. You reek of so much ignoble energy that I fear I may become sick. But anathemas are tricky little things. They can only be undone by the one that cursed them in the first place.”

“So you’re saying- there’s no hope for my situation?” You gulp, but there’s not much saliva to swallow. Your mouth has gone dry.

“Well, I suppose if you were to track down the sorcerer or sorceress who has done this to you, I would not say so. But, if you fail to do so, I do believe that amulet will consume you.” The witch indulges in another nonchalant sip of tea.

“Consume me?” You shriek. “Like-“

“-it will kill you? Yes, evil one, that is exactly what I mean.”

Your blood chills immediately, your stomach twists and turns.

Your current situation just got ten times more complicated.

Chapter Text

The air is cold and feels drained of its sweetness even in the direct light of the sun. Your whole world has been turned upside down once more, a dark and bleak reality coming into the spotlight once the shadow of false hope recedes. You want to fight the pinching of the metal in your chest, but you fear it will fight back.

You can’t bear to face the fire just waiting to get a lick of the sweet oxygen of fear and desperation. This must be dealt with, if even possible, but how? How can you separate yourself from this anathema when it threatens to destroy you in a timespan you're not even informed of? How can you face this when it could possibly separate you from the world and the people you love?

A cloud of dust sprouts from the steel toe of your boots when they slide to a halt in the dirt path. An idea forms in your mind- it’s sudden, heartbreaking, selfish yet also selfless...

It’s perfect.

Your expression falters, unsure whether it should take the form of determination or fear, but you trudge on, sheer will and the courage that’s been so carefully crafted over the years thrusting you forward into the prospect of hope. The practically empty stable comes into view, just around the corner, the view causing anxiety to rumble in your abdomen like a swarm of angry wasps. You’re exhausted and overwhelmed after such an emotionally taxing mission, but after escorting Elucidie and Frea out of Ludfo’s Bog, you’ve gained new appreciation for your job as a Royal Knight.

Which is exactly why you need to do this.

You can see the blinding blonde hair of your partner, his back turned as he tosses his sheathe over his head, securing the Master Sword in its usual spot. His actions are frantic, his limbs a blur as they pull the sheet around the bed, eyes crazed as he looks for something. But he stops, and a quick double-take ensues before cerulean-blue catches on your own eyes. You place your hand on the wooden trimmings of the stable entrance, trying to find your balance in his intense gaze. It’s like ice, melting ice, sharp in places but soft and slipping across every single one of your features.

Your mouth parts, words you want to say catching in your throat. You want to say it, but you can’t bring yourself to. Not yet… not now… not when he’s looking at you so- feverishly.

And in your moment of dread, he closes the few feet between you in long strides, his gloved hands quickly finding their way to your face before you have a chance to decline.

“Y/N are- are you hurt anywhere?”

Goddesses… his voice is like velvet- it wants to draw a yes from your lips, the truth sits teetering on the tip of your tongue like a rock fighting an avalanche. Yes, yes you’re hurt, it hurts terribly, yet the truth stings worse than the wound festering within your flesh.

You’re dying…you’re a wilting rose losing its color day by day, begging for water it can’t even ask for.

The witches' words suddenly echo in your mind in cruel remembrance.

“…I do believe that amulet will consume you.”

And of course, of course his hands are warm and soothing against your skin- even if part of your mind urges you to rip them away out of a fear you can’t quite place. He almost makes you reconsider… almost. But it would put too much at risk. It would put him in danger, your burdening state will only get worse. It will put all of Hyrule at risk, as you will be in the way of the mission.

Yes, yes you are hurting, it’s a phrase you want to scream, but you only whisper, you whisper in a tone almost pleading.

“No… I’m not hurt Link.”

He lets his hands slip from your cheekbones, his eyes dancing back and forth between your own, his lips parted slightly, air exiting softly from between them. Your mouth feels dry, looking back at your close friend, it's painful to consider, but you know you have to- you have to say it. You have to go.

“Link- I…um…” you look down at your hands, twisting your fingers, confidence leaving you as you realize his reaction will not be easy on your heart.

“Where did you go?” He interjects, his tone shaky and broken. “Why did you leave me behind?”

“Does the swordsman know of your condition?”

….

“No...”

“He does not.”

It’s as if a hammer has been released upon your heart, clobbering the fragile exterior until it bursts into tiny crystalline shards.

It hurts. It really fucking hurts.

“No… Link I didn’t leave you behind-“

“But you did. Where did you go?” His words aren’t soft anymore, now they carry an edge. Sharp and quick, broken and breathy. You can’t look at him now, too intimidated by the emotion and vulnerability in his demeanor, so you look elsewhere, absolutely anywhere else.

“I- um…. I-“ you stammer uncontrollably, pathetically even. Link steps closer, his brows furrowed and his eyes dark.

“You what, Y/N?” He breathes out, velvety and smooth. You back up, he gets closer, and soon your back hits the wall, and your eyes snap to his in an instant.

Rain pours outside, muffling the sounds of the world around you as you look up at him through your lashes, now encased between his arms. You know he’s supposed to be upset, and he is, but there’s something different about how he’s gazing at you… there’s something about the way his eyes flicker to your lips that you find almost tantalizing.

It’s obvious the tension is thick like a steam filled room and it makes you almost ravenous, sick with lust, he’s so close….

“Where did you go without me Y/N?” He asks again, yet this time it’s soft, and hushed. You try to swallow, only to find your mouth dryer than sand, but you speak, your voice coming out raspy and faint.

“I- I had to help some people… so I took them to Ludfo’s Bog. Nobody got hurt.” You reassure him, not breaking eye contact.

He’s silent for a moment, still looking you over- but he releases you from his cage, finally letting you breathe. He turns around, looking into the rain, his hand resting over his mouth, like sentences he might regret are trying to burst from between his teeth.

“I didn’t leave you behind without a reason, Link. I just wanted to do this… on my own.”

“On your own?” He mutters into his hand.

“Yeah, on my own…” you mutter back, sad and soft.

He spins around, letting his fingers slide down his chin. “Okay… well- you know what, that’s fine. You can do stuff on your own, you’re your own person and I-“

“We need to split up.” You quickly blurt, your arms wrapped around you insecurely.

His eyes snap to yours. “What?”

“We- we need to split up, Link.”

“Why? Why would we need to do that?” He exclaims, his arms outward at his sides. A smile paints his lips that makes you feel uneasy- it’s an incredulous one, like he can’t believe you would say such a thing.

“Well we can cover more ground this way and it’ll be easier to get the mission over with-“ you explain, following him with your eyes as he begins pacing.

He scoffs, a real breathy scoff like a goat about to ram you with its twisted horns.

“No! Absolutely not- just…. no Y/N!” He spews the words almost tremulously, his expression crazed.

Now you’re starting to get upset. Who is he to tell you no? You’ve given your reasons, shown him since the Calamity that you’re more than capable, yet he decides to treat you like some possession?

Yeah, fuck that.

“Link, you can’t just tell me no.” You scowl, your expression warped, almost like it’s funny he would even think such a thing. “I’m a grown woman, and I’m telling you what I believe is the best option.”

Link practically stomps over to you, his finger jutted out toward your face. “I know you’re a grown woman, and guess what, I’m a grown man, and I’m telling you that this is a stupid fucking idea. It’s too dangerous to go alone. How many times do I have to tell you this?”

You slap his hand down out of your face, full of pure unwavering rage.

“It’s not up for debate, Link.”

“What are you saying?” Link seethes with wide eyes.

…

“I’m leaving tomorrow morning, whether you like it or not.”

Link steps back, shock painting his features before it morphs back into anger. He grabs his stuff and without even giving you a second glance, he leaves, retreating into the pouring afternoon rain.

You watch him go and then you grab the pillow on the bed next to you and throw it across the room in a fit of rage before collapsing on the edge of your own bed, holding your face in your hands and letting tears slip down your face.

How did this hurt even more than you thought it would?

<><><><><>

The crickets outside are loud, so goddamn loud. Even if you didn’t have this godforsaken necklace buried in your skin you truly believe you wouldn’t be able to get any rest anyways.

The argument you and Link had earlier- that felt…. different. More real, more serious this time. It felt like… you lost him. But again, that’s probably for the best. You’re ill. And you sure as hell do not want to get in the way of Links progress. If anything, they can just write it off that you died heroically trying to defeat one of the cultists. Who knows- that could be your death anyways. You definitely don’t want Link to witness that. It would… well, simply put, it would destroy him.

You turn over in your covers, looking at the empty bed next to you. Is he even coming back though? Maybe… maybe he already went to the next checkpoint. Maybe he’s already moved on. Who are you kidding? If you were Link, you wouldn’t care to be around you anyways. You suppose from a friend's point of view, what you suggested and demanded was rather unkind, and rude, and selfish…

Oh gods, if he didn’t hate you before, he definitely does now.

You tuck into the covers, burying your head into them as much as you can. Shutting your eyes and letting your mind drift into familiar yet unimaginable realms. They seem to be the only thing keeping you sane lately. You picture blue clouds, pink trees decorated with lights and painted lanterns, frogs in the ponds, butterflies and crystals, everything your eyes have ever wanted to see, all in one spot. A safe space to drift away…. 

<><><><><><>

“Please, I'm so sorry. I failed, I failed again. No- no, please, no, no, NO!”

Link’s shrieks jolt you from your sleep, and you shoot straight up in the bed, your hair a rat's nest and your heart thumping erratically in your chest. You look around in the darkness, until your eyes catch on the thrashing figure in the bed next to you.

You practically leap from your sheets, it causes your chest to throb painfully but you don’t care, not when something is wrong with Link. You rip the covers off of him, only to find he’s tossing and turning, not kicking or punching- it’s more like he’s trying to grasp onto something. Trying to keep something from pulling him under. You don’t give it a second thought and practically dive in, fighting him until you have a hold on his wrists, but he’s strong, extremely strong, so you decide on your only other option- to get on top of him.

Straddling him has made it a little easier to get physical control of him, but he needs help getting out of his mind. You put all of your strength into your arms and pin his hands above his head. You lean forward, getting as close as you can and tell him it’s alright. You do all that you can to soothe him.

“Link, it’s Y/N, I’m right here, it’s okay.” You repeat that over and over in between his cries and almost constant apologies. You sit there as long as it takes until his eyes finally open and he sucks in a gasp of air. He looks confused, so confused, and so very scared. You grab his face, gently laying your palms against his cheek bones and you bring his eyes to yours. As soon as he realizes it’s you, his head lays back against the pillow and he tries his best to get air into his lungs.

“Breathe Link, it’s okay. I’m right here. You’re alright.” You do your best to mollify his heavy breathing and racing heart with the calmness of your voice, until he finally lets his lids close, his breathing now completely under control. You let go of his face and roll to the opposite side of his bed, never taking your eyes off him in case he needs your aid again, and you just sit there, staring down at him with a crease in your forehead.

“I’m sorry Y/N. I'm so, so sorry.” He repeats sorrowfly as he presses the heels of his palms to his eyes, surely trying to stop the flow of tears. Your heart aches for him.

You have a feeling you know exactly what this is about.

“Link, hey, hey, hey, it’s okay. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

He sits up abruptly, causing droplets of sweat to roll down his bare chest.

“But I did, I did do something wrong. I failed everyone. 102 years ago, I had the chance to end the war, I had a chance at giving a whole decade of countless lives peace and happiness.” He grabs his forearm, tracing a long scar that travels up past his elbow. “But I failed, I failed so many people… including you.”

“Link, you didn’t fail me. You saved me. So many times you’ve saved me- and all of that,” you scoot closer and grab his hands in yours.”-all of that does not fall onto your shoulders. You don’t have to carry that weight. Ganon was strong, and you did your very best to defeat him.” He gazes at you for a moment, almost longingly, but he pulls his hands away, his face taking on a somber expression.

“Your parents would still be alive if I hadn’t failed.”

You wince at the mention of your parents, your heart sinking into your stomach. When you were 14, a guardian had destroyed your home and burnt your parents alive right in front of you. Sometimes you can still smell their crisp flesh, or even the shrill sound of their screams.

But that’s not his fault. That’s on Ganon, the evil mother fucker that he is.

“Link, my parents died at the hands of a monster controlled by Ganon, not controlled by you.”

“I know I didn’t control it- but I could’ve had Ganon under control years before that. You all would’ve been safe. And you would’ve been happy…”

You grab his arm, pulling him away from the scar and instead placing your own hand over it.

“Link, listen to me- you are one person. A strong one, but still one. What happened all those years ago, that was something you couldn’t stop and you have to come to terms with that. Ganon defeated the Champions of Hyrule for gods-sakes. He was just too strong back then. But a hundred years later, when you woke, Zelda had finally weakened him enough so that he could be destroyed. So that you could defeat him. Everything that happened was exactly how the goddesses had planned it. And Link-“ You delicately place your fingers on his scruffy chin and turn him so he can look right in your eyes.

“-you’re a Hero. You’re the hero of Hyrule, and… you're my Hero too.” You smile, tears budding in the corner of your eyelids.

A small smile tugs on Link's lips and he looks away bashfully, his face a bright crimson, even in the light of the half-full moon.

“Well if we’re using flattery here let’s not forget who made the final shot.” Link smiles, his gaze finding yours.

You wave a hand at him, rolling your eyes.“Oh please, it was one lucky arrow.”

“You are so utterly humble and dismissive about your achievements it’s unbelievable!” Link chuckles, brushing some of his loose hair behind a pierced ear.

“Look who’s talking!” You giggle, playfully punching him on the shoulder. Link grabs his shoulder, acting as though you abused him with a wide grin on his face. He watches you laugh, and for the first time in a while it seems genuine. It seems like you.

“Hey Y/N?”

“Yeah, Link?”

…

“Please don’t leave me.”