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Wars waited for the order to enter, then pushed the door open, not giving himself any time for last-minute doubts. This wasn’t even a formality, more of a courtesy to an old friend. He already knew what he wanted, and so did she.
“Sir Link.” Artemis looked up from the paperwork she had been working on, offering him a small smile. Impa simply glanced at him with barely a nod, but that was hardly a surprise. “I believe you have something to tell me.”
“Indeed.” He straightened himself instinctively, then relaxed his stance. “I have finished packing anything I plan to take with me, and Linkle has taken possession of my house. It seemed appropriate to let you know before I leave.”
“I see.” Artemis nodded. “I would say you are always welcome to return, but I think we both hope it will not come to that.”
“I certainly do.” He certainly hoped this would be for the rest of his life. “Just as I hope you will have no need of a hero in the future.”
“Indeed. Not only do I not wish to see my country under threat again, I cannot imagine anyone taking the role as you once did.” Artemis gave him a serious look. “You have done much to serve me and all of Hyrule. It is my most sincere regret that our kingdom has not returned your loyalty in kind, and I hope that the life that awaits you brings back the light in your eyes.”
Wars couldn’t help but smile, hand ghosting over the carefully handcrafted collar he now wore. “It already has.”
“That is all I could ever ask for, my friend.” Artemis paused, her eyes glinting with amusement. “Although there is a practical matter we ought to address before you leave us behind.”
“Oh?” He lifted his eyebrows. “And what is that?”
“Well, we have already established that it is possible to send mail between eras, and hopefully that will continue to be the case.” Artemis forced a serious look on her face. “That said, would you prefer future pension payments to be made in rupees or goats?”
Impa gave a fake cough that failed to conceal her amused snort. Still, Wars would not be embarrassed. She might have asked as a joke, but given his own plans, it wasn’t that far off.
“Unfortunately, I have been informed that Ordon goats are without compare. I’ll just have to exchange the rupees for the goats myself.” Or in this case send a letter and rupees ahead so Rusl could purchase some land and the start of a herd. It had been difficult to keep secret from Twilight, but he was looking forward to surprising his mate with his own goats.
“You really plan to become a rancher?” Impa at least sounded genuinely curious rather than mocking.
“Me? Hylia forbid, that would be cruel to both the animals and me. No, I’ll be quite content being a rancher’s mate instead.” He shrugged. “I believe I’ll be quite busy making sure no monsters wander into the village or the goat pastures. And if I really start to miss my past, I have been assured the queen would allow me to train the local knights if I wished.”
“Without any extraneous court appearances, I trust.” Artemis inclined her head. “Very well. You do not need my permission, but you have my blessing nevertheless. And while I certainly can’t expect reports from you, I would appreciate the occasional letter from a friend to another.”
“I will do my best.” He felt lighter knowing they were parting on good terms. It was still somewhat terrifying, but at least he wasn’t facing this future alone.
Surely, everything would turn out all right.