Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Link felt better after he ate. His meat skewer satisfied his hunger. The entire day, he had trudged through the snow which wasn’t his favorite thing to do. The Rito were very gracious to him though, despite the way Champion Revali had thought of him. That was a memory he could’ve lived without. He just laid there with his eyes wide open. There’s no way he felt tired, unknowingly enveloped in his current thoughts.

He wished his memories hadn’t come back. It’s like being born, but you’re basically an adult and you’ve already lived a life you didn’t choose. The only thing Link knew after waking up in the shrine of resurrection was his name because Zelda woke him by calling his name. So technically he didn’t remember anything. Relearning it all has been onerous. Knight to the princess and chosen by the “master sword” to seal up the evil that plagues Hyrule. It all felt too much.

Link got a lot of gazes from people. Some of the older Hylians know exactly who he is. Others whisper as he passes by, spreading the rumors that were circulating around.

“The champion is no champion.”

“He’s back to ‘save’ Hyrule.”

“It’s Link, the knight to Princess Zelda, who isn’t alive anymore.”

“He lived over one hundred years ago. He is still young?”

“He failed all of us! Especially the princess.”

“He failed all of us! Especially the princess.”

He tries not to care. People will talk. He already felt horrible enough about himself already, no need to cover himself with more shame. But it just makes him feel the need to say very little and stay strong, again. Old habits die hard.

He thought of King Rhoam again. After acquiring the paraglider, Link ran away from the temple as fast as he could after the old man disappeared. Because after the king told him the story of what had all happened one hundred years ago, it was too much information to process. He was a knight, unknowingly. And he was upset about it. He dared not let anyone know how he felt. He had to just jump right into saving the world.

Up until this point, however, after just a couple of months, he’s gotten used to the idea and the anger has tapered away. The more memories he recovered, the easier it became to understand and want to fulfill his duty as a knight. But it also brought on other difficulties.

His body yearned for sleep and his eyes grew heavy so he fed the fire and laid down in the gravel. He found a small cavity of rock to settle in for the night. It was fairly warm with a fire and out of the cold.

He didn’t want to go back to the village. His memories were taunting him. He decided to just put away his thoughts for now and just focus on getting rest. After moments of silence, he slipped into a deep sleep.

He couldn’t recognize where he was or how he’d gotten there. His surroundings were all black, complete darkness. But he could see his hand. That’s odd. What in the world? Why? What was this? Where was he?

He looked around. Figures started to emerge out of the haze he hadn’t noticed beforehand. They became clearer. He stood up. He recognized some faces. He recognized some knights he trained with. He noted his sister Aryll. His father. His family he hadn’t seen in forever. He then saw others, not just Hylians. Some Gerudo, Zora, Gorons, and Rito also appeared. Then he saw the champions emerge from the crowd. He walked toward them as they met up with him. Revali spoke first.

“I knew you were a failure. That awful sword of yours didn’t seal anything away. You’re such a screw up.” He folded his wings. “I could’ve done better than you.”

“I thought you were better than this. You let us all down!” Urbosa frowned.

“And to think you could be healed. It’s too late now. My time and energy were wasted.” Mipha scorned.

“Sorry, I just can’t understand why.” Daruk said, scratching his head and turning away.

Link frowned. He raised his hands up in confusion. They all started back the way they came as the rest of the crowd followed. Even his father and sister slowly turned away in tears.

“I tried everything!” Link shouted, his voice cracking.

Everyone continued to disperse, acting like they didn’t hear him. He felt defeated. He dropped to his knees and started to sob.

Only one person remained standing, not moving. One arm was clenched onto the other. Head looking down, it was a girl with long blonde hair. Link slowly circled around as he walked up to her with intense curiosity. It was Zelda. She didn’t seem to notice that he was there. Hesitantly, he stepped closer to her. Only a few paces away, she vanished. His right arm was outstretched, catching nothing.

“Wait!” He pleaded.

As soon as her body was gone, a swirling red glowing light curiously approached his hand. He stared at it, then looked around. He was back in the dark with himself. More of the color flowed from the unknown as it gradually crept up his arm. He just stood there glaring at it. Before he could react, the swirly red deceivingly seized his arm. He tried to pull back but it wouldn’t budge. The grip he felt got stronger, suffocating his flesh feeling like a large blown up blood pressure cuff was enveloping his entire arm and growing up his shoulder. The pressure was unbearable. Panic started to rise in his heart, his hand going numb.

“Link.” A deep and vigorous voice sounded. A forceful pressure, what felt like a hand, began to tighten around his neck. It wasn’t before long the color grew and grew until it resembled a man, the red swirls seeping out of a palm. A very tall and large man towered over twice his height as his features became clear. Link glanced at the man as trembling fear took over his mind. The large man chuckled, “Hylia chose a shrimp to protect all of Hyrule from me?!” He laughed even harder. Link suspected him to be Ganon, though he had never seen him.

“Link!” This time it was a young woman’s voice—Zelda. “Don’t fail me!”

Link couldn’t move. He pulled at the wrist on his neck, begging for release. The man met him eye to eye.

“How does it feel to not be as strong as you’re expected to be?”

The man pitched Link down before his feet. Gasping for air, Link coughed and writhed on the ground, his arm now tingly. He attempted to make his way to his knees, reaching for the master sword. Instead of succeeding, the man’s boot jabbed him backwards then stepped on his hand, stopping him from making any move.

Crouching, he looked at the panting Link right in the eyes, “When you come after me, know this. There will be no princess to save!” He laughed again and a swift fist thrust at Link made everything end.

Link cried out to a force plunging into his chest. He gripped his shirt as he panicked through the sensation and frantically sat up as the sweat on his forehead ran down his skin. The feelings he was experiencing were nothing short of unreal. His heart raced as he checked his hand to see if he was still dreaming. He wasn’t. After consciousness cleared, he realized his sleeping position resulted in a numb arm.

He buried his face in his hands, attempting to calm his breath. Then he couldn’t take it anymore. So, he let it go. The tears streamed down his hot cheeks.

He would never do this in front of people. A knight is trained to suppress their feelings and put them away for the greater good of the kingdom. But at this moment he allowed it. Conducting stoically around others allowed him to go numb. It’s what gets him through some of his troubling days. However, in moments like this, he couldn’t hold back.

———

Link decided the next morning to avoid any kind of interaction between anyone. He chose to sleep in the dirt. He gave space to any travelers. He wouldn’t even stop by the stable for a meal. However, he stayed out of the deep wilderness.

He hates giving into his vulnerable emotions, but successfully buries them, usually fairly good. Having this burden of protecting Zelda and now saving the world is just taking its toll. 

Chapter Text

Link exited out the doors of Ipma’s home. He had one last memory to recover and then the chase of his past was done. Then he could move on. He knew exactly where to go. The swamps by Fort Hateno had the most guardians than he had ever seen in one place.

Dorian stood at the base of the stairs. Still keeping watch on the village. “It is always good to see you, Champion.” He said as Link nodded goodbye to him.

Link mounted his steed and whipped the reins. He didn’t stop once. Crossing the Kakariko Bridge, he admired the colossal height of the Dueling Peaks. He’d traveled over a decent amount of Hyrule’s topography, he didn’t need to pull out the Sheikah slate anymore. However, he has yet to climb the rocks of the twin peaks. As he neared the stable in the distance he merged left, following the path that other travelers had paved.

He slowly weaved through the graveyard as he searched for the guardians in the picture from Impa’s wall, keeping the slate open for reference. There were so many guardians. His initial thought was, how am I going to find this spot?

Nearing the entrance to Fort Hateno, he met a man standing there studying the graveyard before them. A couple of things he said were interesting.

“One hundred years ago, we had these special warriors called champions. The warrior who fought here was supposedly one of them. I heard the others all died in the big fight. The warrior, though… Some say he gave his life here too. But others think he went into a deep sleep to prepare to fight another day. Which would mean he’s still alive, right?”

That was a very unsettling thought. He put away the comments and kept searching. He went deeper into the swamps and climbed on top of a dead guardian to see at a higher view. He sat there spanning the field as an unnerving sound made him jump and tumble over to the ground.

It was still alive!

The head of the guardian stirred and lit up in color, sensing his presence. As Link noticed its eye directly pointed at his chest, he scrammed. Right after he ducked behind another guardian close by, a blast from the machine missed by milliseconds. In response, Link stayed alert until it settled back to its original position. He reappeared, blasting bomb arrows one after another at the enemy. The guardian blew up in a cloud of smoke and Link sighed in relief.

Using the Sheikah slate, he activated the stasis rune to check if there were other guardians around that could potentially still be alive. He sighed again to realize he was in the clear.

Link ran around for a few minutes until he noticed something peculiar. In the distance, he looked directly toward Dueling Peaks. The tall Sheikah tower is just behind. He took out the Sheikah slate once again. Looking at it closely, he was facing a dead guardian tilted to its side, an ashy swamp just before him and ruins tattered on the ground. This place must not be bothered by many as it was almost identical to the picture he took from Impa’s home. In that moment, the man’s words echoed in his mind and his mind took flight.

They had no choice but to run throughout the night. The rain pounded down on them, soaking them to the bone. Link kept a hold of the princess’s wrist, to keep her nearby. He had to keep her close as she was his responsibility.

They made it to Hateno Village though they just kept on running. That’s all they could do. People were fleeing their fields, panicking. Trying to get into their houses as monsters taunted their pathways. Link saw a mom lunge for her child, shielding him from the chaos like how a lioness protects her cubs.

Thanks to the blood moon, guardians and monsters were abundant since the calamity commenced. He had lost count of how many monsters he had slaughtered in the last couple of hours of traveling from Mount Lanayru. They hid at times to dodge some of them. They almost came across a lynel if it hadn’t been for the rain and Link’s stealth.

Step after step, they grew more tired. As they passed through the exit of Fort Hateno, Link’s feet slid to a halt in the mud. Zelda’s hand broke his grip as she stumbled, losing her balance. He grabbed her again and hid them behind the wall.

Guardians lay in their way in the swampy field that lay on the other side. How are we going to get through this? Link thought.

Zelda appeared mostly dirty and tired; she had no physical injuries. Cuts covered Link’s arms. His legs ached from the exertion and his knees bled. A huge bruise had already formed on his back from a blow from a Moblin he hadn’t seen coming. His whole body throbbed with each heartbeat as he panted in exhaustion. Despite his condition, they had to get to Hyrule Castle! I’ll just have to fight through the guardians as well , he concluded.

He and the princess turned the corner and darted through the swamps; they didn’t make it too far before the first guardian caught eye of them. Link stopped, motioning the princess behind him. He held up the master sword with both hands. The guardian faced them, but Link stood, gasping for air, he had felt out of breath since the village, no moment gave him the chance to catch it. Zelda stood, her hand on her chest.

The guardian spun its legs, attacking with a swift twirl. Link dodged and swung. The master sword grazed one of the legs only nicking the metal. Link frowned. The red beam blinked on Zelda. Link swung again and this time hit its body. He swung over and over and over, weakening it. Then he moved to the legs, snapping them off until the guardian doubled over and dropped.

Before reaching Zelda, a bionic leg struck him directly into the side. At contact, he felt something crack inside him. He ricocheted backwards into the grass.

Another guardian had thrown itself toward Link. With a burst of anger and adrenaline, he shot up ignoring the pain and faced the mechanical monster.

He remembered he had been given one ancient arrow by the Sheikah . Weakly, he pulled it out and nocked it to the bow pulling the string back to his cheek. 

The guardian swayed then looked directly at him.

“Gotcha!” He said and released.

Its eye now impaled, and dark. Electricity traveled around its body as parts fell out from underneath it. It dropped, completely motionless.

Link dropped to his knees letting out a cry of pain, holding his side. Flashes of colors moved across his sight.

Zelda approached behind him as he wearily slumped over the master sword. He allowed himself a short break before they continued on their way to catch his breath that he felt like he wouldn’t. He heaved inhaling after exhaling but fought to keep up his stance. Link felt her hand on his shoulder, “Link, save yourself, go!”

No princess, not today, not ever. Especially in the direst need. He said in his mind.

“I’ll be fine, don’t worry about me. Run!” Zelda said.

You’ll die in this. He couldn’t leave her, nor would he. He swore an oath. He won’t back down. His assignment was protecting the Princess of Hyrule, until death if necessary.

A third guardian turned to their direction and approached.

Link stood, weakly, legs and arms quivering, the sting on his side screamed at him. He fought against falling, so he attempted to maintain the stance he physically couldn’t handle. The guardian rose high above on its bionic legs, planting itself on top of other guardians that had already fallen. At that moment, Link pushed himself up from the crouch, the momentum stumbling him backwards. Gritting teeth as the pain raged through his body. The red laser blinked directly on him. Ok, time for another slaughter, he thought, bracing himself for another fight. Although, not even having the strength to hold up his sword.

An unexpected “No!” startled him as she pushed him aside. The princess stepped in between them followed by a growing bright light that enveloped them, covering the entire field. Link stayed in place, only breathing, trying to stay upright, using the master sword as a cane. Gazing up after the light dispersed, the guardian shook and toppled over, its dark glow escaping from the inside.

They were unharmed! He looked around, briefly noting the other live guardians and monsters had fallen as well. His grip loosened on his weapon. He shrunk until his knees met the dirt below, resting his free hand on the ground for wishful stability. However, his body quivered in so much pain, he couldn’t hold himself up anymore. Unwillingly, he dropped to the ground.

He felt soft hands touch his head and he heard an inaudible voice. His back rose from the ground, but he wasn’t moving on his own. Where am I? What happened? Am I asleep? He thought. The voice he heard was Zelda. For a moment he forgot his location. His senses had become numb.

She cradled his body and pleaded, “Get up!”

I collapsed, he realized.

He was soaked and he could taste blood on his tongue. On opening his eyes, he saw trees. He saw the princess next, who looked very worried. Link coughed, unaware again of his physical condition, holding back tears. It was the last thing he remembered.

Link stood there, stunned. Scanning the entire field, he sat down, taking in the moment. Eventually, he stood and slowly walked back to the stable lost in thought, his feet dragging each other forward.

He decided to retire to bed at the stable. He approached the counter.

The stable manager turned, “What can I do for you?”

Link didn’t answer for a moment, looking down. Fingers made a snapping motion in front of his face.

“Hello… Champion! Are you with me?”

“Oh, uh, a bed please. Sorry.”

“Twenty rupees,” he paused, glancing at Link who, slower than a normal person, pulled out the payment, “Given the state of you, Sir Link, you’ll want to hit the sack as soon as possible.”

He didn’t hear him. He couldn’t take his mind off of the memory he had just experienced. The rain. The monsters. Guardians. Zelda. The light. The death. The failure.

He completely forgot about eating and just retired to bed anyway even though it was midday.

Did I really die? He thought to himself, lying on the bed. Then remembering where he woke up from a hundred year slumber, he recalled what the Sheikah slate said on the map. Zelda had placed him in the Shrine of “Resurrection”! He silently gasped.

It had not connected in his mind that he had really died. He thought he had been asleep for one hundred years! Not nearly dead for part of it! Who knew when he had revived during his revitalization but now his whole being was full of dread.

It was night when Link woke. He did not have a good rest. A few of the events of one hundred years prior taunted him, waking up every hour.

She's not the one who failed the kingdom, I am. He thought to himself. How am I going to move on from this?

His body hungered, so he clumsily cooked a mushroom stir fry. While eating, he watched the flames dance.

No one knew how he was feeling. No one knew what he had gone through since waking up in the shrine. No one may ever understand. His journey was his own.

No one will ever understand.

How can he move on from this? 

Chapter Text

You may have beaten the beast, but you will still fail her. Things aren’t over. Link tensed. Ugh, that voice. It’s been coming and going ever since his first nightmare.

Link slowly walked back to his horse and paused before mounting. He let in a deep breath and let it out. But it was over. The deed was finished and they succeeded.

Zelda sealed Ganon away. Finally! Link was sick of hearing about it, let alone living it. The burden of saving the world was absolutely intense. He thought of her words. “Hero of Hyrule.” Psh. Some Hero I am.

What you do will never be enough. Just wait.

Just ignore it, he told himself.

He completely understood the pain and the importance it was for taking on such a task and he was over it. The unfortunate part is that he hadn’t chosen to do it, except that he gave in because of the princess. The one thing that did give him relief now is that the princess is safe.

Unless you mess it up again.

He rolled his eyes. And sloughed the thought to the back of his mind.

He weakly hoisted himself up, noticing the lack of strength he had used up during the fight. He helped Zelda up and they started the trot to the stable.

“You ok?” Zelda asked. Link didn’t want to talk. So, he didn’t answer. He just kicked the horse to go faster. 

What a great first impression.  

At first, he didn’t really answer her when she asked if he remembered her. Of course he did remember her. But not in the slightest positive way.

After she asked him that question, she didn’t really wait for an answer. She just ran up to him and embraced him. To him it was a weird feeling. He hadn’t embraced anyone for who knows how long.

The past few months of regaining his strength seemed to have caught up to him at this moment. He didn’t feel he had any left. It felt more like days had passed than months. The part of his brain that measured time seemed to be out of order.

After waking up in the shrine of resurrection and meeting new people, he was able to come out of his shell a little more. He could crack a joke here and there. But now the princess was actually here. This wasn’t a dream anymore. He hadn’t seen her in one hundred years. His natural reaction, back then, to anything was stoicism, but that didn’t mean he knew how to act around her, especially now. After analyzing his recent past interactions, he was like that with Impa and Purah too. For the first time since he woke up, he’s decided to stay completely quiet. He was exhausted and hungry. Boy was he hungry. He couldn’t wait to get back to a cooking pot. Right now, that’s all he cared about. And sleep.

Surprisingly, he didn’t mind her company as they sat together. It felt familiar. He thought after roaming around by himself for so long, he’d prefer to be alone, but having someone there was sort of a comfort, even if he wouldn’t admit it. Link couldn’t express it physically but mentally; he was content with it. It is his profession, however. He’s going to now have to get used to that again. Granted, it still didn’t beat solitude, which he often needed.

When he gets the opportunity, he likes time to himself too. Usually that didn’t happen as often as he liked the century before. Roaming the wilderness was therapeutic, despite the monster pests and having to be on your guard most of the time. But overall, it’s his sanctuary.

He’s silently overjoyed that he’s done with the anticipated hard part. Calamity Ganon was difficult to fight. He got a really good bruise on the shoulder to prove it. Without the help of the divine beasts, he wouldn’t have made it through. Thankfully, for now, Zelda was giving him the quiet he needed. She was quiet. She had a lot going on in her mind too. At least that’s what Link thought. What now? They both thought.

****

The Dueling Peaks Stable proved to be insightful for Zelda. The biggest shock to her was the stares she got upon arrival. If princess Zelda was back, that only meant one thing. Ganon’s power was gone. A couple of people teared up. Others just blank stared. Even the stable manager's voice cracked as he offered his services.

“It’s very gre—“he croaked, “great to have you back, Princess.” He nervously said. He offered them food and beds for the night at no charge. Even those that had prepaid for a bed gave up their sleeping arrangements. Link took the very next moment after dinner to sleep.

As Zelda sat near the fire, she just stared into the flames, thinking. She couldn’t find the will to sleep. She had the Sheikah slate in her lap and so she started to look at the map. They weren’t far from Kakariko village; however, she anticipated that tomorrow would be another tiring day. Getting back into living and all.

A blanket was placed over Zelda’s shoulders.

“The night brings a chill.” A female voice said. It was the stable girl.

“Thank you.” Zelda expressed. She put the Sheikah slate away.

“I have some clothes that might fit. I will fetch them. Would you care for another glass of water?”

“Yes, please. Thank you for being so kind.”

“It’s my pleasure. You two have been through quite an ordeal. It’s the least I can do.” She returned with a glass of water with folded clothes and shoes. “The air is starting to feel a little different now that you’ve arrived.”

“What has it been like the past few years?” Zelda curiously asked.

She sat down, “Oh, nothing out of the normal.”

“I don’t know what normal feels like.” Zelda openly admits.

“You will. Shouldn’t be too long before you get into the swing of things, your highness.”

I can’t believe that, she thought, finishing her water.

“You best get some sleep, my Lady.” She advises. “Your knight may be asleep, but you’ll always be safe here.”

Not like she could get sleep. One hundred years goes by and she can’t feel the need. Despite the thought, she went to bed anyway hoping for better things ahead.

Link woke up while it was still night. The only light was the lamp on the wall. He rubbed his eyes and grabbed his canteen as he watched the water pour outside. Zelda was still in her bed, facing the opposite way. He couldn’t blame her if she wasn’t able to sleep.

He put on his boots and walked to the map he saw on the wall. Upon approaching, he stumbled.

He was sitting enjoying a meal by the fire before he heard the rustling of bushes. He shot up, drawing his weapon. Throwing his sheath to the side, he silently watched for movement. He didn’t see what was camouflaged in the snow until it jumped forward in the corner of his eye. His blade swiftly blocked as defense then swung. The lizard swiped his tail under Link's feet and tripped him. Rolling out of the way of a deadly strike, Link somersaulted toward his weapon that had landed near the fire.

Another lizalfo appeared as he impaled the one that just pounced on him. Circling each other, Link waited for it to take the first move. A couple steps later, it threw its boomerang, but missed. It pulled out a second blade and pitched but Link dodged and counteracted. The first boomerang soared back and sliced through Link's pants. He stumbled in surprise, sounding a war cry, he stood back up to face his enemy and charged. The lizalfo dodged, turned, and its long tongue moistened his thigh leaving behind a poisoned sting in his fresh wound cooking his flesh. Link bent over again, this time in anger. He wanted to get rid of this bastard! With a bit of adrenaline, he attacked with fast speed, impaling it. Link dropped, clenching his calve.

He didn’t realize that he had sat down against the wall, let alone the man right in front of him. Eyes darted, facing the ground, he was being supported by another Hylian who was waving a hand in front of his eyes. Link noticed the movement and shook his head to snap out of his trance.

“You ok, there?” The man asked.

Link just stared for a moment. He nodded.

“Maybe you should lie down.”

That was weird. He thought. It felt as if he was reliving a fight that happened months ago. He and the Hylian were the only ones that were awake or aware of what had just happened. He just helped him back to his bed and Link laid there realizing he didn’t need a map other than the Sheikah slate. He fell asleep, again, exhausted.

The next day was sunny. The rain left behind mud and a beautiful bright rainbow above the peaks. Link woke up fairly early before Zelda, again. He made breakfast and hastened their departure for Kakariko Village. He didn’t want to talk about what had happened during the night. The Hylian that had helped him the night before was near, but Link didn’t want any sort of conversation about the incident. He’d rather just keep it quiet. No need to worry the princess after she just conquered her own hell. Plus, he was ok with the silence if he could help it stay that way. Luckily, the Hylian didn’t pay any mind other than a friendly wave as they left, just like all of the other people that were around the stables.

The only thing that ran through his mind when he left the stable was you are going insane.

____

Zelda thought of the conversation she had with the Hylian that she sat with at the fire.

“I’m worried for your knight,” the man said.

Zelda frowned in confusion,” why is that?”

“I caught him as he stumbled to the floor. He was surveying the map on the wall inside,” he said, “he seemed distracted.”

He’s definitely not the social type. He seemed distracted at times but just spacing out mentally and breathing hard isn’t normal. I need to talk to him, she lamented. But finding the right time to talk to Link was an awkward thing to do. No time is convenient. She decided to just see what happens and watch him more closely.

Chapter Text

The house wasn’t clean, nor was it very dirty. The woman that lived at East Wind, the general store, had accepted to watch over it. He had given her many rupees in exchange for labor because Link didn’t know when he’d be back.

Link expressed dissatisfaction as they entered. “There’s no food here.”

“That’s ok. We can get some.” Zelda said.

Zelda got dressed in the garb that the stable girl had given her. Link walked out of the home to give her privacy. She had been given a simple beige tunic with Hylian shorts and a belt. The boots fit her just right as well, feeling like they were new. She hadn’t worn shoes in such a long time, but she was grateful for them due to having to walk barefoot for most of their way there. It was all more comfortable than the dress that she had worn for a century.

Link never changed clothes or removed the sword from his back. Zelda noted the weapons he had put on the wall. If she ever needed a weapon, she could grab a sword for herself. Right now, she was only worried about one thing.

Her knight.

Link looked around as if he were searching for something, hands in his pockets, frowning. Zelda tried not to pay too much attention. He has looked that way ever since they were together again. He was calmer before, even when he first became her knight. Zelda paused as they approached the houses. Link turned after noticing the emptiness next to him.

She looked at her hands. “I feel… like I’m losing something.” She met eyes with Link. She couldn’t pinpoint what it could be. “I know I’ve gained my kingdom back, but I’m not feeling very victorious.” She paused, “I have a request, Link. I don’t wish to see many people. Seeing all those people at the stable was disheartening. I can’t take anyone staring at me right now.” 

Link nodded. “We will stay law low, princess.”

“Zelda. Please call me Zelda. I’m not a princess in a dead kingdom!”

         He didn’t answer. He was taken back that that’s how she viewed it. He was a knight of the Kingdom of Hyrule and he wasn’t dead after all.

Zelda looked back up at him, “Now, let’s go.” She noted his pause. “C’mon, it’s almost dark.” She hurried along. Link resumed his walk, looking uneasy.

A bell rang as the door to the general store opened. Link started glancing at the produce. Zelda approached the counter. A man that sat in a chair behind a counter, reading some paper. Acknowledging them, he looked up from his task, “Can I help you?” Facing Zelda. He glanced to the side, “Sir Link!”

“We just need a meal.” He spoke.

“Of course. I heard you were headed toward the castle.”

The store manager looked between both of them and covered his mouth. “It is finished?” His eyes locked onto her. “Then that must mean—your majesty!” He bowed.

“Please, no.” She expressed, trying to stay quiet. Someone started coming down the stairs. It was the store manager’s wife. Her eyes widened as she paused at the bottom.

“Please, we are trying to keep it down.” Link assured them, walking over and looking out the window.

The woman spoke, “Pruce, give them what they need!” They helped them get some food at no cost, his wife shoo-ing him away for not moving fast enough. Pruce just stood there in disbelief and walked upstairs scratching his head.

“How long will you be staying at the house? I’m sorry, I haven’t kept it up as much as promised.”

“It’s alright,” he motioned calmly with his arms. “We will just be staying the night, then we will move on. Please don’t mention this interaction to anyone.”

“Yes, Sir Link, but move on to where?”

“That I don’t know, yet.” Looking away from the woman.

Zelda realized for the first time that he had no plan.

He wasn’t sure of what to do next, but to keep moving. Why else wouldn’t they stay more than one night? Was he running from something?

Pruce’s wife gave them a bag of food and walked them to the door. “Take care, you two. May Hylia be with you!”

They could both feel the tension as they walked back to the house. Closing the door behind them, Zelda spoke first. “We need to get out of here. We need to go into the wilderness and stay low.”

“No!” Link ordered. “I have to keep you safe! It is not safe out there during the night. It’s too dangerous!”

“Link, I don’t want to be seen by anybody. There are too many people that will see me, that have seen me. I am not ready—”

“We’ll leave at dawn.” He interrupted. Putting the food in a pack that he had placed by the door. “We can talk more in the morning. You can have the bed.”

Zelda was not happy with that response. She couldn’t deny the feelings that she was feeling, and that Link was trying to avoid something. But, due to her experiment, she let it go and hiked up the stairs, silently seething.

The night grew cold. Link had decided not to light a fire due to the Princess’s wish of not being seen.

“Link?” Zelda called. “Are you there?”

Steps sounded on the wooden floor. “Yes.” He said as he made his way up the stairs. “I wouldn’t leave.”

“I’m very cold. Lay with me?”

He took his time before he walked over to her and laid down on the bed as she scooted over.

“Thank you.”

“Get some sleep, princess. We have a day ahead of us.”

She sighed. He called me ‘princess.’ “Can’t you sleep?”

“It appears not. But I will try.”

She turned over, relieved by his presence, attaching herself to him. He looked up at the ceiling and allowed it, again not bothered by her next to him. Despite the knowledge that knights weren’t supposed to do this, he was there for her comfort. In whatever way he could provide. Especially after what they’ve both been through. And he couldn’t blame her for needing warmth.

Slowly, they both drifted off to sleep.

They were on their way to Lurelin village but wouldn’t make it that night due to the late hour. Link felt a break necessary for everybody’s protection. Zelda went because she liked to visit with the villagers and discuss any needs or concerns they may have.

As they were nearing the inn, the ambush took flight. Yiga soldiers appeared out of thin air. Nighttime was a perfect time for an attack. Anybody who could wield a sword jumped out to help.

Link rushed Zelda to the door of the abandoned home close by. Houses were burning down and debris falling near them as they passed by. Croli, one of the nights came running with them as he reappeared from inside a house. Finally, they made it.

Upon opening the door, a Blademaster surprised them and advanced. Croli jumped in to face the enemy. Link rushed Zelda back across the bridge. More Yiga foot soldiers appeared on the other side.

The Blade master behind them struck Croli down in one hit, leaving him on the ground. Link and Zelda were surrounded. On the bridge he held her back to his, trying to keep her as close as possible.

Zelda’s breathing hastened. Link let out a low frustrated growl.

“Leave, if you value your lives!” Link shouted.

The Yiga Blademaster laughed at the remark. “Who’s lives? Kill them!” He ordered the footsoldiers.

“I’m sorry,” He whispered to Zelda. Adrenaline took control as he turned her toward him and held her close. Shoving his sword into her hands, Link pushed the princess into the water below, a gasp escaping from her mouth. The river would lead her to the pond further down and she could escape. As he watched her disappear, Yiga Footsoldiers seized him before he could flee himself, hands holding him tight. The Blademaster approached and punched him in the stomach. He attempted to recover his breath as they started to take him away. Behind the man, Link noticed Croli on the ground in front of the home, flames spreading across the roof.

Yelling from the Blademaster ordered other men to check out the area below where the water pooled. Link’s thoughts darted around for a plan.

They took him further away and were nearing the entrance of the village. Men and their families were standing outside of burning homes, crying. The general store and his wife were running out of their home, just before it collapsed. His other four knight mates passed out on the ground.

He still had no plan.

Except this.

Mad as a hornet, he flailed his limbs, trying to break free. Getting somewhat loosened, he punched a face, stepped on toes, and headbutted another face.

It worked! He couldn’t believe it! With no time to waste, he sprinted back to the bridge. He stopped, holding onto the suspension. He looked behind him. Yiga Footsoldiers were approaching. He looked back, seeing no trace of Zelda, assuming she had successfully gotten away. Until he heard noise in the distance: swords clashing together. He darted past the house, enveloped with fire, noting that the knight's body wasn’t there anymore.

Toes at the edge of the rock, He saw Croli defending Zelda with the sword Link gave her. Two Yiga Footsoldiers had cornered them near the tree.

Link’s head turned to the Yiga appearing near him. Quickly, he started to descend the cliff, desperately trying to get to his Princess’s aide. Fingers on the ridge, he let go just before a wind cleaver struck the exact spot he had held. Yiga soldiers almost lost their balance as they tried to snatch him. However, one of them jumped into the water after him.

His body scuffed against the rock ledge and he tumbled near the bank into the water. The cold shocked his nerves as he sucked in air after bobbing to the surface. Before he could open his eyes, his hood was roughly draped over his head and Link cried out in surprise, going under the water. The intruder pulled him to shore and he was forced to kneel. His wrists were held above him with a strong grip. Metal touched his neck.

“Do not move, or he dies! This instant!” Said the Blademaster.

Link panted. Not able to see anything, he struggled, desperate to get away.

“Link, don’t move!” He heard from around him.

Zelda. She was probably threatened in some way to say that.

They unveiled his head, but his seething continued. The princess was pinned between the rock behind her and the back of the knight trying to protect her.

Link’s knight mate, Croli, hesitated. And soon he started laughing. Link gritted his teeth. Croli walked up to Link and knelt in front of him.

“Do you really think that I’d want to protect the princess before myself?”

Links cheeks went red, he thrashed. “Traitor!” He spat.

“I am no traitor.” He clapped his hands together, gesturing a mudra sign, and after a puff of smoke, his countenance revealed who he really was.

Zelda gasped, backing away. The other Yiga’s laughed.

It was their clan leader, Master Kohga. “I can’t believe you fell for that!” He laughed. “You’re gonna die anyway, hero!”

Link thrashed again. Another punch in the gut and he fell forward to the ground.

“Don’t hurt him!” Cried Zelda. Watching, she saw Link slowly turn on the ground. He moaned, a hand gripped his hair and he was forced to his feet. His hands held onto his head in pain.

“You sure keep a lot of hair on your head to keep us from grabbing it,” Kohga laughed. “Bring them to the village entrance!” He ordered.

Upon arriving, the villagers were already grouped together in the crops across from the general store. The farmers had worked so hard to grow their food, now they were forced to stand in them. Yiga surrounded them, holding them in. Link was continuously dragged by his hair toward the villagers. Zelda was also dragged by the wrist.

The group looked at them with worry. Link and Zelda were placed on the sloped pathway entrance.

Kohga turned to the group, then pointed at them both. “Look at them! The Champion and your Princess! See them in front of you, helpless. This is the day that you witness that the Yiga Clan defeated the knight who seals the darkness! Here, he will be killed! And Ganon will prosper over Hyrule.”

The crowd erupted in gasps and whispers.

Link’s legs were kicked from behind, to land on his knees. Zelda was thrown into the group of townspeople to witness. Link looked up at Zelda. He looked at the old woman, Uma, who always met Link at the cooking pot, her eyes on him. Link saw the owner of the dye shop, Sayge. And the wife of the general store, Ivee. Reede, the mayor, spoke, “What accusations do you have against this man?”

“This isn’t just any man. He is a man meant to save the kingdom! Ganon will not fail. He will destroy everything you are trying to build.”

Coarsely, Link was flung forward into the dirt.

“Fine! Kill me!” Link said, trying to get up. “But nothing changes. Hyrule can triumph without me!”

“Link, what are you saying?” Zelda said under her breath.

“Say it again,” Kohga said, leaning in close.

“You heard me,” Link replied.

Link was punched in the face. He landed to the side, right next to Kohga’s feet.

“NO!” she shouted, trying to get to him. But she was held back.

“As you wish.” Kohga said.

Link slowly turned over and glanced at Zelda. I’m really sorry, Princess. She could see the apologetic look in his eyes.

“As for all of the others, we will be delivering them to Ganon ourselves, including you, Princess.”

“NO!” Link said getting up. Kohga sharply struck his face with the back of his hand. His body flung to the side again, landing on the rock of the road. Blood streamed down his nose.

“Or we could just beat you to death, your choice.” Kohga stood, laughing and towering over him. Link stayed down. “Sooga! Assist me?”

The huge man walked up to Link, and at that moment, the Yiga Clan Leader raised his sword and the clan started to chant. The chant started soft, then it gradually got louder. It sounded like some sort of prayer. But why would you say a prayer before killing someone? Hands held his biceps and again he was held up. Tears trickled down his cheeks, mixing in with the blood. He hung his head limply.

“Link…” Zelda said to herself. “Stop!” She cried out. “Stop! Don’t, please!” Her cheeks were hot and tears streamed down.

The chanting got louder.

“Link!” Zelda cried.

Then Kohga let out a war cry.

He woke—abruptly.

Zelda was sitting up in bed, her arm on his shoulder, “What is going on? You were screaming!” Her eyes switched back and forth between his eyes.

Link was panicking and sweating. He was also hot. Becoming aware, he exhaled out a long breath. Settling back into the pillow, he placed arm on his forehead.

“Bad dream.”

She just looked at him.

“I’ll be fine. Please go back to sleep, Princess.”

“Call me Zelda.” She reminded him.

Zelda grew even more worried about him. She obviously couldn’t just let this go. She couldn’t get past this behavior. You were literally thrashing and shouting in your sleep! She thought. You are NOT fine! However, she again let the situation go to see where it would lead.

“I hope you’re warm,” he said.

“Yes, thank you, Link.” She noted, comple tely unaware that she had forgotten her own needs. Her needs weren’t important to her at that moment. Link was going through something and she would not let it go. 

Chapter Text

Link couldn’t sleep the rest of the night. His mind was racing. He couldn’t stop it. He decided to get up as sleep was no use.

He crouched at the bag that held the food they got from the general store. Pulling out an apple, grabbed the master sword, and a book, he stepped outside. It was raining. “Typical.” He said aloud and sat near the door. It had only been a couple of days since the Calamity. He needed some time to just—be still.

The only time he ever thought to write his feelings down on paper was after he woke from a long slumber. He had once again learned to keep in his feelings, but he felt like he was going insane inside. He didn’t want to blow up. Emotionally, he could fail before he got the princess to safety.

         He had many entries. Not every day, but on the days that were slow, and not full of much action. He looked at one of them, it was not dated.

        Today was awful. I got beat up by a bokoblin.

         That was it for that day. He chuckled to himself. It must’ve been close to after he woke up in the shrine. He hadn’t been strong then. He moved onto another one a few pages after.

         The princess. Who is she? I don’t even remember what she looks like. This old spirit guy just decided to ruin my life DAYS after I am revitalized and drops me a bombshell—I should be kinder though. He is the King after all, I am his knight. I follow his orders and I still have his daughter. I am trying to hold back my anger about all of this.

         Now the princess was here. He wasn’t angry anymore. But he silenced himself again and the burden still lingered. All this pressure! Defeating the calamity didn’t change any of it. I don’t know if I can take it. I’m not just looking out for myself anymore, but was I really? I am her protector. I have to stay strong. He reminisced. He sat there for a while. Inhaling and exhaling. He could see his breath in the air. It was that cold, but he still wasn’t cold. He had put on the trousers he got from the Rito before he came out.

         He took his pen and started writing on a new page.

         Well, I have the princess now. The Calamity is defeated. Ganon is gone. It was really hard as I still feel slightly exhausted. Zelda is asleep right now. I need to get her out of sight of any of the villagers. We had to crash at Hateno Village to get away from the action. I mean, me. I feel at home here. I don’t know why. But everything about my past has been–unknown to me. My memories. I wish I still had all of them. Maybe it would make some of this easier. Things haven’t been easy at all the past couple of days. I couldn’t even say anything to her when we fled from Hyrule field.

But I do choose to keep my composure. I need to. For the princess. Zelda. She told me to call her by her first name, which makes me uncomfortable. I don’t think that she wants to be considered a princess. She thinks she failed. Thing is, I know exactly how she feels. Today she expressed that she felt like she was losing something. With such a long exertion, I suppose it could be her powers. This is a bigger reason to keep her close behind me. I’m used to the danger that Hyrule has been up against lately. She’ll need to understand that. This task is something I need to do. For the King.

Everything that I have done up until now, I’m feeling numb, but I’m also scared. It’s weird. I can’t sleep tonight though. I have been having nightmares. A lot. I see images in my mind. I’m always stressed out. I want to run. But I won’t. I just need to make sure that I don’t lose it in front of her. I felt like I was slipping yesterday. I’m so worried about her getting hurt and she pushes me to go into the wilderness where it’s dangerous. I have to keep myself from losing control. I can do that, I think. I am not going to let her see that side of me. That is everything she shouldn't see. I am her knight. I will keep up appearances. Put myself aside. I have to protect her. I will not fail her again. I just can’t. But for some reason, I’m scared for us both.

Yesterday, I did not know where to go. We are trying to lay low. Zelda is not as ready as she could be to show herself to anyone. I know one person that we HAVE TO see, though. That’s where we’re going to go next. Impa needs to know she’s alive.

         He held the journal on his chest and looked up at the sky. The rain was starting to die down. The day was starting to begin. Time to get a move on.

         He used the sword as a crunch to hoist himself up and walked into the house to put his things away. Silently, he went up the stairs and laid a hand onto Zelda’s arm, shaking her slightly.

         “Mmm?” She moaned.

         “It’s time to get up, Zelda. We have to escape before we are seen.”

         She turned. “Help me up?”

         They both got dressed and slipped behind the house to avoid a farmer working in his fields, and over the hills, down into the trees. 

Chapter Text

Link sat up against the stable tent. He couldn’t believe he had gotten this far. Hearing Zelda’s voice saying it was time to defeat Ganon, was way too much to mentally process. He wasn’t ready. His mind raced through every reason why he didn’t want do it.  What am I thinking? No, he had to do this! He had to rescue Zelda. He wanted to. He doesn’t back down from any challenge. She said she was in Hyrule castle. All this time. She was there. Ok, I’m in this alone. But so is Zelda. So we’re really not.. We will work together. 

Before he went, he wanted to do one thing first: he needed to sleep. 

The next morning, he got ready, cooked meals, made elixirs, and put on his blue champion's tunic. He had washed it recently and it contained a couple scuffs and smudges. 

He made sure his master sword was his weapon of choice and he armed himself with his Hyrule shield, branding the castle’s logo. He didn’t rush to the castle, but he knew he couldn’t waste any time. His horse seemed to show more eagerness to be on its way than he was. If only you knew what was coming up.

He almost felt unworthy to wear the blue garb. Failing the princess one hundred years prior had broken her heart.  He hated some of his memories. They taunted him. 

“My one comfort is that your reputation will be completely ruined once you fail! The fallen knight!”

Link purposefully didn’t react to Revali's prattle, but it never left his mind. He considered his words anyway. The “fallen knight” is his main worry. He doesn’t really know what he’s going up against. He had only heard stories. And that prophecy of Calamity Ganon's return, could actually kill him for good this time. 

His biggest worry is letting the princess down again. If he didn’t step in to help defeat Ganon, the princess wouldn’t last. It’s a wonder how she has lasted this long. His fear only gave him motivation though. He was going to prove everyone wrong. Including himself. He had to keep going despite his past mistakes. He wouldn’t give up. Not like a coward. He really wanted to help the princess. She’s what drives him forward. 

He kicked his horse. 

Let’s get this over with. 

He leaned against a tree, silently trying to breathe through his thoughts.

Another flashback. He remembered everything very distinctly.

His fear now was losing the princess.. or even himself. He knew he was losing his sanity in some way. He realized; episodes hit him more often than ever before. 

“Link?” Zelda asked. “You okay?”

“Yes, just taking in the scenery. This is my first time admiring it since before—“, he stopped, looking around. He didn’t want to talk about any of the events he has previously been through. It sprinkled fear, something he is trying to stay away from. In fact, he decided from that moment on it was too painful. “You know what? Let’s just keep going.” 

****

That was weird, she thought. Mental note. 

Walking wasn’t a normal thing for Zelda, but Link was used to the exertion. He walked at a faster pace than she did as she tried to keep up. But instead of focusing on how tired she was, she decided to tune her senses to her knight once more. 

She had found a small dagger in the house and strapped it to her belt. If she was going to feel a little more secure, she decided it would be a good idea. The master sword was still strapped to his back. His back and butt portion of his clothes were slightly damp. He hadn't sat anywhere since she woke up. He must’ve gotten out of bed at some point. Probably outside, due to the fresh wild showers. Zelda mentally noted the details. She decided to keep a mental note of anything she could gather to figure out just what was going on with him.

Turning his head sharply, he stopped her with his arm, his other and with a finger to his mouth. Zelda froze. She looked around the trees. Noticing and hearing nothing. 

“What–” She started, confused.

“Shh!” He snapped. He drew his sword. Holding onto her arm, he guided her to a tree, “Get behind this.” 

He walked forward, slowly, stepping with grace in the we grass. She held onto the mossy tree, watching his every move. He stopped and looked around, sword ready to swing. In the bushes just ahead, something rustled behind t t hem. When he got closer, he swung. 

The bird jumped out of the shrubbery, flapped its wings, launching into the air. Zelda released her tense muscles. “Really, Link…?”

He just sighed. 

“You are just a little paranoid, you know.” She said, walking off. He followed behind, putting the master sword back into its sheath. She looked around and in the corner of her eye, she noticed he was looking at her. As she focused on the path ahead, he loosely held her back, making her slow her steps.

She looked at his eyes, which were not looking at hers, “Please be careful.”

“You worry too much.” She scoffed. 

Another arm tug. This time she pulled her arm away. “Link, I'll be fine. Please stop worrying.”

They were out of the trees now. Walking through an open meadow. He was looking around. Scanning the prairie. Sweat dripped down his face. 

The sight made her think of the night before. She was scared for him. While he was having that bad dream, he was twisting in place. He was crying out loud, like he was wounded. The question, she had wanted to ask him so badly, was at the tip of her tongue. But the silence beckoned her not to. 

 “Can I ask you something?” She asked anyway. 

He kept walking.

“Link?” 

No response. 

“Link?!” She said loudly. 

He turned to look at her, but she paused. Wrong time , she concluded. His mind was elsewhere. 

“Can I have some food? I haven’t eaten anything.” 

He handed her some bread and cheese from his pack. 

“Thank you.” 

He just turned to continue on. 

I’ll have to try another time. He’s obviously not ready to talk. 

****

As they made their way through the Phalian Highlands, this would lead them to the Pierre Plateau which led down to the fairy fountain, if Link had recalled correctly. 

Things were silent for a long while during their hike. Any tension was too awkward for Link to say another word to her. He just ate all of his words, as usual. He could tell that she was annoyed with him. He figured it’s because of his apprehension with her. Link looked behind him here and there just to make sure that she was alright. 

Link hadn’t been to this spot in a long while. He’d only passed here one time after he met the fairy. He tried to retrace his steps in his mind as they walked around a small slopey descent. Coming around the rock, he slid to a stop. 

And there it was. When he saw it, it was clear to him what he had almost forgotten. 

It just laid there, sleeping. Not like it ever had anything better to do. 

Zelda kept going. Obviously not paying any attention. He pulled her back and she shrieked at the sight of it. The thing got up and looked squarely at them. Panic made his heart jump and he motioned for her to follow him. She acted to his wishes as he started to book it back where they came. Soon, he only heard his own breathing. Pivoting a one-eighty, he saw the princess standing with her arm extended. 

The hinox was closer. With the beast gaining stride, he ran back to her and grabbed her other hand, forcing her from a planted stance that she clearly was set on staying in. She pulled away from him, only to cause Link to use his entire body strength to jostle her whole body backwards, almost to a fall. To their surprise, the hinox slammed two fists upon the ground, shaking the ground beneath them. Upon catching herself, she finally started to run with him. The hinox was only a few feet behind them.

It grabbed a tree, tearing it from the earth and threw it toward them. They watched it land in their pathway, blocking their escape. Link pivoted again and saw the princess was still with him, thankfully. 

The overgrown cyclopes growled and Link swiftly pulled out his bow aiming for the eye. He did not miss. He caught up with the Zelda who had started to run away and they were able to make a secure escape. They made it to the plateau he had previously seen in the distance and they hid behind it. Both sat down to catch their breath. 

“What in Hylia’s name was that Link!?”

He just stared at her breathing hard, indignant, but listening. 

She buried her head in her hands, crying irately. “I had it under control! I just needed a few more moments, I had to try, but you had to interrupt me!”

He put his head between his legs, elbows resting on his knees, his hands clasped over the back of his neck.

She continued her frustration, “I don’t want to be dragged everywhere across Hyrule! I can take care of myself. I have for decades against a demon!! The calamity is gone Link! Stop hovering over me!”

Link’s hands formed fists and he clenched his jaw, biting his lip. 

He only saw her. The trees. He couldn’t get up. He was on the ground, she was holding him. Crying. The master sword in hand. His vision faded.

Then it was over. His mind tuned back to his surroundings. She was still upset at him, yelling. He tensed. 

“The calamity is over, Link!” She yelled. 

But her knight jumped up, standing above her. “Yes, and your powers are gone! Monsters are still lurking! You almost died. AGAIN! I can’t let you put yourself in harm's way just to get them back!”

Her eyebrows furrowed, taken back. She hadn’t forgotten about her powers. Neither had she connected them as the reason for her void. She looked down at her hands. But he was right. They felt dormant. That’s why they didn’t work. That’s what she’s been feeling. Her sense of loss. “How do you know?”

“I just do. I can feel it.”

She stared at him. Even after all this time, they still shared a connection. 

Link did not want to say anymore, giving her the time and space to come to herself. He stood up and leaned against the rock. He decided that the best way to handle this situation would be to wait for her to come to her senses.  So that’s what he did. He was going to try to be patient with her. He wasn’t going to lose it. He was choosing to stay in control of himself. 

****

“Where are we going?” She finally asked. After so long, she had forgotten parts of her own kingdom, which was hard. 

“To see Impa. Let's go.” He walked around her and headed toward the village. They had wasted enough time already that it was time to move forward and make a plan.

She rolled her eyes, “Sweet Hylia!”

“It’s time to face some reality.” He said putting on his pack.

I’m facing the reality of you, Link. There is something up with you. 

“I guess so.” She just said. She hated that he was right again. However, she was right about one thing. He was paranoid. Another mental note. She watched him stand and head toward the direction he meant to take her. 

He stopped and turned, “Now stay close, and do not leave me, unless I say otherwise.” He looked at her until she gave a response. She only sighed. 

Bossy, she also noted. Which was new to her. He never was like that.

As they reached the top of the mountain hill behind Impa’s home, he stopped.  From the sheikah slate he pulled out his hylian hood, giving it to her to put on. They had to sneak their way in.

They descended to the side of the mountain where the fairy rested. Walking down past the shrine that led to the south side of the village, Link instructed her to go first so he could watch her then come up behind her as to show they weren’t together.

She walked through the long grass into the village. An eye symbol decorated the houses and some of the apparel that some of the people wore. She pulled Link’s hood down and continued to look at her feet, only glancing up every few steps to see where she was going. Hopefully no one would acknowledge her.

Link had told her to go toward the Inn and he’d pick her up after he went in to see Impa. So she did as he asked. He wasn’t very happy with her as he basically shoved his hood into her hands and didn’t look at her. However, his very eyes were currently watching her every step. She didn’t dare go against him now. She didn’t want to upset him anymore. 

As she walked up the stairs of the Inn, she saw Link descending through the houses. He came come down the path on the other side of the hill. She stepped inside the inn. 

****

Link walked past the two sheikah elders and ascended the stairs to Impas home. This was his first time seeing Impa after he saw his last memory.

Thankfully his hand was on the railing as he clutched his side, his muscle memory kicking in.

The bionic arm struck his side ribs. Doubling over, he collapsed.

He gasped, rousing himself out of the trance. He wasn’t sure how loud it was. The flashback caught him by surprise. They usually do. He cautiously looked behind him and no one seemed to have noticed. Oh Goddesses, he cursed. Now he felt like he was wasting time. He shook it off and continued on up the steps, then knocked on the doors. 

Paya opened the door. “Hello, Sir Link. Grandma has been awaiting your return.”

He didn’t say anything for a minute, though he didn’t have to. She looked up at him as he approached, “She’s here isn’t she?”

He nodded. 

“Please fetch her. I want to speak with her alone.”

He nodded again. And turned, slowly walking out the door. 

Impa noticed something she wasn’t used to about the young man. He had bags forming under his eyes. He even moved at a slower pace. She decided that she would need a few moments with him as well. 

****

She was watching Link walk up the stairs through a small window. He paused then continued and disappeared into the house. 

Zelda sat on a bed. These were softer than the one she laid on last night. The man at the counter was asleep. She wished her situation was different. She wished she could just be on her own without Link hovering over her, her freedom was limited, but that’s how she knew life. It was never her own. She sort of felt bad too. He’s only doing what he knows to do. He did save the kingdom. He did what was expected of him. But he was different! Something about him was off. She thought to herself, He’s so stubborn! I’m going to see if I can crack him. Make him explain why he’s acting this way. 

The door opened. It was Link. “Impa wishes to see you.”

Zelda gave him the cold shoulder and headed outside to the stairs. Link didn’t follow. 

A sheikah elder opened the door for her. And there she was. Sitting on a stack of pillows, she raised her head, “Zelda, what a long century it has been,” She smacked a hand on her knee. “My heart is full because of your return.” A tear dripped down her cheek.

Chapter Text

Link was getting anxious just waiting for them. He sat by the fire. He sat on the stairs. He paced by the door. He looked through the window at them talking. He walked over to the tables and chairs by a cooking pot and sat again. He took a knife from his sheikah slate and picked up a stick from the ground. He started carving. He noticed the Sheikah elders started to notice his nervousness. He caught a glimpse of one turning back to face forward after getting a peek of him.

Before he turned back to his hands, Link nicked his palm and a cut from his knife made him sound a short gasp of pain. He held his hand, trying to hold it in. He cursed himself for hurting himself so easily. He really wasn’t paying attention, as all of his awareness was on the princess and how long she was spending inside.

He didn’t know why, but it worried him to have her gone, out of his reach. He couldn’t protect her if anything happened. Not like it would here in the safest village right now in all of Hyrule. Still. It doesn’t satisfy his anxiety about it.

The cut bled down his thumb and the words of Mipha came back to him:

“You were just a reckless child. Always getting yourself hurt at every turn… If anyone ever tries to do you harm, I will heal you.”

Her words still rang clear in his mind. He remembered the gift he had gotten from her spirit.

Mipha’s grace.

He fixed his posture, sitting up straighter. Closing his eyes and placing his hands in his lap, he allowed his mind to reach for the power.

Usually, Mipha’s Grace reacted pretty immediately after he dipped his will into the power. For a moment he thought he was succeeding.

But he wasn’t.

A grunt escaped his throat, opening his eyes.

It didn’t work...

He looked down at his bloody thumb. He had used the power during the fight with Ganon. It was only days ago. Why couldn’t he reach Mipha?

Kakariko village was a small village. You could find it hard to not see its villagers walking around, not much space to hide. One sheikah headed Links' direction after exiting the inn. He came over to the cooking pot and tossed in some ingredients.

Link quickly wrapped his hand in some cloth and put on his stoic face as he got up to walk away to pace in another place.

“You know that the elixirs in Hyrule can provide many benefits to your health.” He spoke.

Link stopped in realization of the person looking at him. “Um, yes.” He answered. “I’ve experienced them myself. If you’ll excuse me—”

“Some even say it can improve your mentality.”

Link stopped. He stared at him for a moment. The man looked like any other sheikah man. White hair. Traditional sheikah garb. He wore earrings. His eyes were fixated on the pot. “Is there new evidence?”

“Oh yes! The fact that the people of Hyrule haven’t taken advantage of it is past my understanding. It really does help you make sense in a chaotic world.”

Intrigued, Link sat back down. “What’re the ingredients?”

“Oh, Hyrule herb, juice of game, and some spice I’ve acquired across my travels. It’s really quite simple. I could give you some if you’d like.”

“I’ll give it a try.”

He handed Link a small leather bag. “My first cup is already made; you can have a taste.”

Link took the ladle he gave him and sipped the concoction. It had a slight gamey taste but a nice soothing smell. Link coughed but attempted another sip. “It’s not so bad once you get used to it.”

“It’s like heaven.” The man gave a chef's kiss.

Link finished his third sip. He already started to feel slightly less troubled. “I’ll take more off your hands,” he said before exchanging another stash from the man’s belt with some rupees.

“It’s been wonderful doing business with you.”

“Champion!” Someone behind him called.

He looked in their direction. The princess was coming down the stairs.

****

While she sat alone waiting for the knight, she silently recounted her talk with the princess. Impa had listened intently to what Zelda had to say, giving her the time to vent. She rehearsed her experiences before, during, and after the calamity, bursting into tears the majority of the time hugging onto her sitting pillow. She viewed her time during the last century as a prison. In the events following, she explained about Link and his peculiar behavior. Zelda said she didn’t feel like she could share these thoughts with Link because in her words, “He’s… changed.” Impa’s suspicions were confirmed by the princess about the knight. Something must have happened during the defeat of Calamity Ganon. She grew slightly concerned about both of their well beings.

She had noticed him poke his head through the window a couple of times.

She felt the need to help them. She knew the stakes of interrupting a knight and his duties to the princess. But before she let them leave, she needed to know more about what he was going through. Her suspicions may be confirmed, but not by his side. He needed to get him to admit his struggle. If he was+6556++9*- not very responsive, which was highly likely, she’d want to keep him close. Zelda surely had been through a lot based on how much she vented. Link had become a slight burden to her, despite the burden he freed her of.

Impa was never a mother, but she had wisdom. It seemed like they needed a little advice. Her number of years was her advantage here. She was determined to help them learn; they were teenagers after all.

****

Link walked into Impa’s house as requested. He turned just before the doors closed to make sure Dorian stayed near the princesses' side. He didn’t trust any situation where he wasn’t present. He didn’t want to lose her or else he truly wouldn’t forgive himself.

He felt awkward. A new feeling he’d experienced in Impa’s presence. Walking on the wood floor, it silently creaked with each step. He avoided the picture that hung on the left wall.

“Link, please have a seat.” she offered. He sat on a pillow, designated for visitors. He noticed it was slightly wet. Tears , he guessed.

“Welcome back!”

Link gave a slight nervous smirk.

“You have been through quite the ordeal.” Impa recounted.

He shrugged offering no response, trying to avoid the subject.

“How are you doing?” She asked him.

Still no words. He was getting tired of people asking him that question.

“If you don’t mind me noticing, you look pretty tired.”

He looked down. Din’s fire, she notices! He had no choice but to admit it. “I haven’t been sleeping well.” But he knew it was more than that. He tried harder to keep himself composed.

“You have both been through a lot. How has the princess been fairing? She needs time to get back to normal, which may take a while.”

“I’ve tried to be patient with her. But she’s hurt by the events of her past.”

She took one hard look at him. “Now tell me about you, Sir knight.”

“Me? I have nothing of value to report. I’m… just doing my job.”

“I can see that,” Impa said. “A bit too well, I’m afraid.”

“All I can do is fulfill my duties as best I can.”

“Just don’t push yourself too hard.” Impa said. “Even knights need the time off. You’re not immortal.”

“I know. However, she is not taking the necessary precautions to be safe.”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“She tried to use her powers and she almost got herself killed.”

“Do they not work?”

“No, she said she can’t feel them. Nor can I feel them.”

“You can sense her light power, knight?”

“Yes. At least, I think I can. But not much. It’s fading. Like the champion's abilities.”

Impa sat for a moment, pondering. “That is curious. I thought that there was more to you two. It is expected that her powers dwindle from time to time after such an extensive exertion to the point of exhaustion. As well as the champions abilities, it is expected that they wouldn’t be available after their duties were fulfilled in aiding you in the defeat of the Calamity.”

Link sighed and looked at the floor. “But we will find answers, in time. There is another matter I wish to speak with you about.”

Link shifted uncomfortably in his seated position.

“I just need to make sure. Are you sure you’re faring well?” She repeated.

“Yes.” He couldn’t let her worry about him. No one needed to. He looked down as she studied him. He felt maybe his response to her was a little weaker than he usually was. No one needs to know that you’re seeing things. They have other things to worry about that is more important.

“The princess said she’s worried about you. I have to say I’ve noticed a difference as well.”

“I can manage.”

“Ok, if you’re sure. I do have a favor to ask you. We are short on wild boar; do you mind accompanying Cado on a day's hunting trip?”

“I don’t know. I shouldn’t leave the princesses' side.”

“No need to worry about her, she’s very safe here,” Impa smiled. “I think it’ll be good for both of you to have a little time apart.”

He hesitantly agreed. He didn’t like it, but he did think some time away from his duties as her knight for a little bit. 

Chapter Text

Looks like they’ll have to settle for pigeon. There were no wild boars in sight in the few miles they traveled to find game. Cado had insisted on traveling further away from the village for any chance. Unfortunately, it was raining, but it did make it easier for the hunt.

He pulled back on his bow string ready to settle for the only foul they could find, resting on a tree branch. Link’s legs started to ache from the crouch he had settled in for over an hour of stealth. He almost released the arrow when quietly from behind, Cado softly tapped his shoulder.

There it was, trying to stay out of the rain, a wild boar hiding in the bushes. How did we almost miss it? It was about a hundred yards away.

“This one will be ours, then we will head back to the village.” Cado said.

Link shifted. Cado gave him a little space. Both dressed in Sheikah garb to make the hunting experience quieter and easier. Cado was ready with his dagger. Link pulled once again to aim. The boar quietly snored, as if in a deep slumber. He accidentally stepped on a stick that snapped and the animal shot up, running away. Link quickly adjusted his aim, released and the boar dropped.

“Good shot!” Cado said.

Link walked over with the bag ready for the carcass. Until something caught his peripheral vision.

The eyes caught Link’s attention as he still sat crouched in the grass holding his things. The wild boar started to grow. Link jumped back. It grew until it loomed over him, swirling tendrils of darkness escaping from out of it. Link turned around, but he was alone. His companion had fled! The beast’s fiery red eyes turned to Link, who froze in place. The eyes burned with an insatiable hunger for destruction, and its visage twisted and grotesque. Jagged horns protruded from his head, framing a maw filled with razor-sharp teeth, ready to devour. His breathing became shallow and erratic as fear entered his mind and heart. The once familiar surroundings now seemed alien, each tree looming like a silent sentinel in his descent into madness. The snout breathed heavy and an ominous and otherworldly feeling overwhelmed the knight. The dark energy snorted, then stepped forward.

Link backed away from it as the damp earth seeped through his clothes, mirroring the cold grip of despair that clenched his heart.

The swirling mass of dark energy grew and coalesced into an enhanced monstrous form that exuded power which gave off all the vibes of dread, more than Link had ever experienced before. Then, he thought he felt his heart skip a beat.

His surroundings now became different as if he were transported there. There were no more trees. No rain. He was now sitting on grass. He saw Hyrule Castle massive in size, above in the sky corruption ensued as Ganon’s influence spread across, covering the blue sky like a red plague across the atmosphere.

The figure dispersed into flying flames of malice, eyes beaming through the swirls. It roared overhead, its song a mocking chorus to his torment. It looked squarely at him and his eyes began to ache.

Link clutched at his hair, dropping forward to the earth, his strands slipping through his fingers like grains of sand as he tried to anchor himself in reality. But the world around him blurred into a haze of confusion and fear, every sound and shadow a sinister specter haunting his fragile sanity. Tears streamed down his cheeks, mingling with the moisture of the field's floor, as he fought to contain the chaos and headache consuming his mind.

The rustle of plants became a cacophony of whispers, taunting and accusing, as if nature itself conspired against him. He managed to get up and started running. The beast of Ganon followed above. Link turned to look back, but he collapsed to his knees amidst a patch of wildflowers, more tears mingling with the dewdrops on the field floor. The weight of his thoughts pressed down on him like a leaden cloak, suffocating and relentless. Images flashed before his eyes. Memories both haunting, each one a jagged piece of a fractured puzzle he could not piece together.

His cries reverberated through the air. Birds took flight, startled by the raw anguish that pierced the tranquil serenity of their domain. Link clawed at the earth, as if searching for solace in the roots that anchored him to the ground. But his surroundings remained indifferent to his pain, a silent witness to the unraveling of a soul in turmoil. And as the echoes of his despair faded in the whispering wind, Link was left alone amidst the towering giant that was chasing after him. Lost in a scene of his own making. He looked up and the beast was gaining on him at a terrible speed.

He ignored the pain in his head that shut his eyes tight. He felt a pressure encircling his torso. A slight shake to his body from something other than himself made him question if any of this was real, although it felt very real. Breathing as steadily as best he could, he thought he could faintly hear someone. The ringing of words grew louder.

Open your eyes , the words echoed.

“Link!” Cado yelled, shaking him again.

Link's eyes shot open, getting pulled out of his horrible sensations. He panted as he looked around to realize that his companion had never left him. Cado was still there with his arms embracing him as little spoon. No more monsters. No more castles.

“Breathe.” Cado whispered in his ear.

Gradually, Link’s thoughts quieted and his breathing steadied into a natural rhythm. The tightness in his chest loosened the grip that had been on his heart. Link brought a hand to it in relief. His headache subsided as well. Sweat dripped down his temples. The sun shone through the trees. He welcomed it with gratitude, focusing on the silver lining of the clouds above. He was back to where he started.

“What is going on with you?” Cado said, looking at him puzzled. “You scared me!”

“I..” He tried. But he laid back down, exhausted. “I don’t know.” In reality, he really didn’t. His episodes were out of his control. He had no idea why he had flashbacks from the past or horrible dreams. He didn't know what to do about it. But then again, he ignored it because it wasn’t about him. The princess was his top priority.

They both sat for a moment. The birds as the only ones speaking.

“Great job with the wild boar.”

Link didn’t answer, letting the moment drag into awkwardness.

“It’s… it’s time to travel back to the village, Link.” Cado paused. “I’ll have to tell Impa about this.”

“Please. Don’t.” Link begged.

“I’m sorry. She left me with special instructions to look out for you. This is worrisome.”

Hylia . Link sighed. I didn’t think she’d suspect so soon. I can’t get away from this now.

Cado stood up and bagged the boar.

Link moaned. He didn’t want to face what lay ahead. He ignored the issue on purpose. He didn’t bring attention to himself on purpose. Zelda is the one that was to be kept safe. What he felt about himself was no question.

****

“I’m definitely worried about him, Impa. The look of terror in his eyes... It was scary. Link thrashed and screamed. He couldn't get a hold of himself until I held him. He asked me not to say anything, but I don’t believe this is to be ignored.

“I know what it’s like. When my wife left me, I experienced it all. I had nothing left, not even a child. My cuccos are the reason I’m still sane. I can’t tell you how much anxiety and depression held me down. I just hope that this poor knight isn’t experiencing the same disturbances. However, unfortunately there is no doubt in my mind that is what he has encountered.”

“Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Cado.” Impa said, “We will make sure to keep a close eye on him. I’ll inform Dorian as well. But don’t tell the princess quite yet.”

” Yes, Impa.”

Impa knew that something had to be done. She decided that if something else happened, she’d need to hold an intervention for him. She knew he couldn’t keep this in anymore. He was damaging himself by ignoring it and he needed help. He wouldn’t ask for it. Drastic measures need to be taken to prevent any more mental damage. They had to keep Link as close as possible. 

Chapter Text

Dorian was the protector. The elder who watched over the sheikah village. He is the one who coordinated visitors into Impa’s home. With the Yiga Clan currently on the loose, they had to take every precaution so that the tribe didn’t fall. He had help from the other elders as well but he was the one who had ears inside and out. He was determined to keep everyone safe, since what had happened to his late wife. He wasn’t going to let anything happen to anyone again.

         After Impa informed him of the knight, his eyes never left him when he was around. If anyone did him harm, it would be the end of them.

****

Link hadn’t seen Zelda since he returned. He expected that Impa wanted to talk with him after Cado came back home from reporting their trip, but he didn’t tell him to visit her. He only said that Zelda was sleeping upstairs and then went straight to fixing up the wild boar meat for dinner.

Link pulled out the master sword. He stationed himself near the goddess statue and started doing drills in the air, fighting off an imaginary foe.

The master sword was exceptionally light as he held it. His journey with the sword had been nothing short of favorable. It was the best weapon he had ever possessed. Though, his privileges in obtaining it were not his own choice. He always wondered if the blade didn’t speak to him too often because of his own personal choice of social status. He rarely had anything to say. So maybe neither does the master sword.

He thought about his own reason he had the master sword, why he became Zelda’s knight and the danger that they had been fighting for so long to prevent. Each swing he made in the air became heavier and harsh. His tip tightened with each blow he now took against the nearby tree. He impaled it, growling under his breath as he thought of the boar that he anxiously lost control over. He impaled the tree over and over.

He was becoming angry. He didn’t like that he was losing control of his emotions. He wished he hadn’t been saved from the last encounter. It felt a little embarrassing. And now Cado has reported to Impa and she knows. It was annoying to him that people now knew his feelings and they weren't anyone’s business.

He remembered the dried herbs and spice that the Sheikah man gave him. He put his sword away and then reached into his bag feeling its contents. He found the small pouch and started to make the drink at the cooking pot.

Taking a cup of it, he downed its contents from within and slightly cringed at the taste once again. Gradually, he found his headache subsiding. He sat, slumped back in relief, happy he had found a solution to his pain. Gladly, he decided to take a nap himself. He settled more into the shade and pulled out the sheikah slate, he got out his bag as a pillow and drifted off to sleep.

****

Days had passed since they arrived in Kakariko village. Paya showed Zelda around the village. She explained many things that she had remembered from over a century ago like the different buildings she visited that weren’t there anymore, the river that hadn’t been there, or the trees that had been planted, but most everything else stayed the same. Zelda remembered one tree she had planted, now a big strong oak tree near their cemetery in between the cliffs that looked off into Hyrule. That was where she was now. Kneeling. She began to pray. She wasn’t near the goddess statue, but here, she hoped to get some privacy.

She remembered the days she had prayed each spring, begging for her powers. They had proved dead to her devotion. She hasn’t had luck for years of prayer and diligence in preparing for the foretold prophecy of a dark man who would disrupt the balance of the kingdom. She wondered what life was like for her people while she was gone. Did they feel saved by her when she sealed Ganon for so long? Did they remember what she had done after a few years of doing it? Why wouldn’t Link talk to her and tell her of his adventures and tell her a little bit of his experiences? The last few days he’s been so silent.

Her prayer shifted to her concerns for Link. She prayed that she’d be able to figure him out. Understand his pain and hoped she’d be able to help him out. She prayed that he’d stop being angry. “It’s all my fault! I put this major burden on him and now he’ll never forgive me. He’s changed and he’ll never be the same. Please watch over him! Heal him! I can’t do this without my knight. Link is all I have left. He keeps me sane. He keeps me happy, even if he’s a thorn in my side as of now.”

He has been there, but so reserved lately. At times she wondered if he really noticed her. He usually sat with slumped posture, eyes in the distance, thinking, not entirely there paying attention.

Her tears streamed. She wanted the old Link back.

She gave herself a few moments to calm down and stop crying. It was time to start the day.

****

Dinner rolled around and Zelda was watching Links every move. He ate slower tonight, skipping out on the pork to only pick the vegetables. She stared at him for a moment, wondering if he was ok because of his pickiness. She determined that he could just manage himself as he always has. But she would eventually talk to him anyway. She still wanted to investigate. His bad dream in Hateno Village was frightening to her, but she needed to see if things got worse before she said anything. She had only noticed his temper since then. Link’s attitude and odd behavior still bugged her. She had truly spilled her guts on that subject to Impa.

Impa, Paya, Dorian, Cado, Zelda, & Link all sat together at the table inside Impa’s home.

“Tonight is a celebration,” Impa started. “For the return of our dear Princess Zelda and her brave knight, Link, that they are unharmed. They have conquered Calamity Ganon and now all of Hyrule can rest. We express gratitude and hope for a future where we can continue to live together in peace.”

“To our Hero,” Dorian chimed in, “who has given his life, we will be forever in your debt!”

“To the princess!” Cado praised. “And to her brave knight!”

Everybody looked at Zelda. Until they all shifted to Link making him hesitate. He raised his cup and all the contents. Link now embarrassed as he put his cup down and nodded at everyone as he excused himself. He wiped his mouth on his sleeve as he stepped outside.

The silence grew until it was getting too intense for her. Each person looked at each other sharing the same puzzlement. Zelda’s mind raced as it escalated finding it difficult to keep in her concerns. She got up and went to the window, her eyes following Link outside who had just sat at the fire.

“Leave him alone Princess. He’s still processing these events. He finds it difficult to revisit them.”

He took a stick stirring up the contents of the fire.

“I’ll only be a moment.” Zelda said as Dorian stood when she exited the door, Impa held him back.

Zelda marched right up to Link and sat down. He didn’t give even a sideways glance.

“What is wrong with you!?” she said bluntly.

Link paused, obviously caught off guard, “What?”

“Why did you just walk right out of the room so quickly? You have been avoiding me and not talking to me! What is going on with you?”

He furrowed his brows. “My job is to protect you, nothing more. That is what I’m doing.”

“You don’t talk to me Link; how do you think this makes me feel?! You just drag me along to you don’t know where and expect to be just okay with silence? This is not working at all; I can’t take it anymore. I am not at peace.”

He sat there for a second. He went back to being stoic then looked up into the evening sky. “It sure is beautiful up there isn’t it?”

Zelda joined in the gaze. It really was beautiful. But he was shifting the subject. Zelda took a breath in anyway. She tended to let her thoughts flow without constraint. Link was telling her to slow down. How can he do that when he himself is in jeopardy? “Link this isn’t about the stars. I need an answer.”

He shifted his posture. “I don’t want to talk about it.”

He doesn’t know, she thought. He isn’t acting this way because he wants to. He literally is experiencing it and doesn’t notice. He’s consumed by himself. “My knight is suffering. You are suffering, Link. Please, let me help you.”

“I don’t need help. I’m fine.”

“You say that waking up in the middle of the night screaming is fine?! You say, being mad at me and ordering me around is fine?! You say staying quiet and internalizing everything is FINE?!”

“I’m not mad at you. I do admit I have been ordering you around. But I am the one to keep you safe.”

“We are safe here! I don’t need to be under constant watch by you! You just ran out of the house, crying aloud, leaving me behind. Do you call that protecting me? Why did you run out?”

He started to speak as if to answer immediately, but hesitated. “I’d rather not talk about it. Look, I apologize for walking out. I won’t do it again.” He took the stick and started fiddling with the coals again.

Zelda shot up and stomped back to the house and up the stairs. Everyone had gone home. She sat on her bed and buried her face in her palms, tears wetting them. 

Chapter Text

Well, we’ve had a few days without much going on. Just helping out the village and laying low.

Zelda is getting on my nerves, to be honest. She confronted me the other day demanding that I tell her what’s wrong with me. I am her protector; I am doing what the king expects of me: to keep her out of harm's way. She just doesn’t understand.

Impa has been keeping us busy. Trying to give us things to do. She says it is “for our own good”.  The work does keep me out of my head, or so has been the past few days. I haven’t had any bad dreams or anxious moments. It’s been relieving. I feel as if it could be from the teabag the sheikah elder sold to me. I am so grateful to have something that helped me. Although, I have been drinking a lot of the Sheikah man’s tea lately. It takes away the sting of my pain. This is all too much to handle. I don’t like expressing my feelings, but I still feel as if the weight of my burdens have hung around—in a different way. After defeating Calamity Ganon, I feel mentally exhausted.

I’ve been trying to keep a better composure despite being so tired. After running out from dinner the other night, I realized I acted out of character. I am not someone who would do that. Usually. I don’t act on my emotions. It complicates things… ok, I do admit my mental state may be in a bad place. A lot of things have caused me pain. And to have a mind that doesn’t know how to handle daily activities or relationships and responsibilities because of—I don’t know why. I worry all the time. I worry about Zelda’s safety. That I’ll fail protecting her. I still feel the weight on my shoulders as the Savior of Hyrule. I was able to defeat Ganon, yay, but danger still lurks. I have to keep her safe. Whatever it takes. Even if it means risking our relationship. I’ve had problems with Zelda before. The recent experiences have proved her to be the same as when I started as her knight.

I think the more I protect her the more she’ll come around. I believe that. I’m not worried about how she’ll react. Or anybody. I’m doing my job here and they’ll thank me later. I know what’s best for her right now. She doesn’t want to stay in the village, well, too bad.

Link turned the page. He bit at the end of his pencil and gave the next few sentences a couple of thoughts.

I think there’s something wrong with me if I’m being completely honest. I don’t know what’s going on though. I am feeling things I have never felt before. I see things. I feel someone near me sometimes, but I don’t see anyone when I look around. It’s terrifying. I always feel like I’m on high alert and I can’t keep my cool. My feelings fluctuate so often I have no idea why. I wrote on the other side of this page that I feel mentally exhausted. Sometimes I feel as if my strength escapes me suddenly. I don’t understand it. I don’t know if there’s anything anyone can do. So, I’m just going to keep it to myself and act like everything is fine hoping that one day it will be.

Chapter Text

Hello my dear readers and friends.

I have done something.. that you may or may not like...

I have made a change in where I'm taking this story. So, this story line will be combined with my other story line of "Hyjacked". I was having a hard time with doing both at the same time separately without a secure plot for either, but it has been such a fun thing to combine them into one. So I'll be writing an entirely different story than this, and no longer posting any more chapters here. BUT, I think you'll like it. The new story will have the exact same plot regarding Link having PTSD, along with some other interesting things happening alongside his struggle. I sure hope you stay along for the ride! Be sure to subscribe to the new fanfic I'll be posting soon!!

Thank you!!