A Sheikah child wore his mask to protect his honor and his identity – a Sheikah's mask was a symbol of his rank. It symbolized their training and progress into the world, worn until a Sheikah was promoted in a coming-of-age ritual.

That's why Sheik would wear his mask forever.

Ganon and his war had ended Sheik's training with Impa, so it would never be complete. He would always wear his mask. He could take it off, of course, but that would be disrespectful to his family and everything he's worked for his entire life. He would never remove the mask nor ever have his ear pierced with a golden hoop earring to symbolize his coming-of-age.

No, times were too hard to worry about promoting one child into the world of adulthood.

His mask could be useful, though – hiding the fear and anxiety and hate. No one, not even Ganon, could tell what the young Sheik was thinking. He was invincible, a fortress of solitude.

Everything was hidden: his face, his emotions, his allegiance, even his pride. They had to be in order for him to live. Even his eyes, now an icy blue, full of distrust and bitterness, were a disguise, not letting anyone into his soul.

Sheik would always be wearing a mask. He was not allowed to show his true face.