ShiningwingX: Here's the next chapter! I hope this makes up for the rather depressing mood the first chapter set. Truthfully, I've had this and the prologue pretty much written for months now. This chapter however went through a very extensive rewrite, which resulted in much more in depth description among other things. Now though, it is finished. I hope you enjoy it.

Another reason is because I've decided not to upload a chapter until the next one is done, and the next chapter was originally going to be quite long, probably bordering on 18000 words with authors comments and all O_O. However, I ultimately decided that was much too long and instead split the chapter in two. I have both finished now so that means… I'm two chapters ahead! WOOHOO. What does this mean? Well I've decided to upload this one and allow everyone a weeks worth of time to read it, then upload the next. So yeah… EXPRESS UPLOADS! Hopefully this will make up for my taking so freakin' long with this one.

Anyways, I hope you enjoy the read.

They say

if you love somethin' let it go

and if it comes back then that's how you know

I got to the stop light then I made 4 rights

now I'm back where I started

and you're back in my life.

The further I go the closer I get back to you

I say I moved on till I'm reminded of you

can somebody help me

help me get out of this circle

get out of this circle?

Circle – Marques Houston

Trials of the Heart: Divinus Minae

Part One – A Kingdom at Peace

Chapter I – Blossoms and Blades

I step outside the large, ornate temple and close the massive doors behind me which give a loud clunk as they lock themselves in place. I inhale deeply, taking what feels to be my very first breath of fresh air since my journey began. The air is cool, and moist, with no clouds in the sky, promising a calm, clear day. From the position of the sun, the temperature, and the damp air, it seems to be early morning in mid spring. This does not help as much as I wish however… I still have no indication of exactly how far back in time the spell sent me.

This was the aptly named Temple District. A somewhat small area of the city by comparison to other districts, which held only the Temple of Time and a few residences, sanctioned for those of the clergy. A small stairway placed at the end of a small avenue leads into the Market District. All around the temple, a moat of clear, cool water, gently laps against an elaborate stone border, which kept the shallow water from flowing over the precisely groomed Emerald hued grass. The residences are rather non-descript, as those who lived within them had long since sworn off worldly comforts in an effort to raise themselves closer to the goddesses. Day in and day out, they pray, going for days on end without food, constantly listening for the voices of the three divine ones. The temple proper is another story; a massive building made of granite and sandstone, gothic in structure. Large stained glass windows, framed in silver line the walls, shimmering from the light of Malia, which depict illustrations of the story of the goddesses and the creation of Hyrule. On either side of the intricate marble stairway are two beautifully tended bed of flowers, the petals of white and gold swaying in the calm breeze.

Lining a segment of the border is a row of four odd statues, each resembling a singled eyed face complete with an unnerving even malicious grin. If one listened carefully, they may even hear the hushed voices of the stones that spoke of rumors and hearsay. Despite their appearance however, these 'Gossip Stones' as they were known were in fact made long ago by a well meaning Sheikan sculptor who placed them for the benefit those who could hear their voices, and their fearsome visages are said to have the power to frighten away evil spirits. It is for the latter reason that the bishops and High Priestess tolerate their presence.

I glance about, remembering the first time I'd come here to this hallowed ground; the same location where the goddesses had departed from this world after finishing their tasks. Has it been years since I first stepped foot in this place? Or was this perhaps the 'first time' itself? Having traveled through time so much, I've forgotten when and where it all began. I smirk slightly at this new speck of irony. I, the legendary Hero of Time have been bested by the very force in which I represent.

After taking a moment to clear my head, I make my way down the avenue, passing a few acolytes garbed in white robes, some smiling and uttering short blessings while others gaze pitiably in my direction, possibly thinking me no more than an ignorant child. I pay them no mind, instead passing into the streets of the Market District, passing many small buildings and stalls on my way to the square. At this time it is largely empty, as the hundreds of people who would walk the large plaza have not yet awoken from their slumber, and only a pittance of early risers currently dot the cobblestone streets. Roads wide enough for a single carriage branched in four directions, leading to the city gates, the Temple District, the Highborn District where nobles reside, and the Royal Quarter. I make my way through the plaza, secretly thanking my luck for the lack of crowds and quickly proceed toward the northern branch leading toward the latter.

After following the road for a time, it eventually leads into a small natural valley that serves as the route to the great Castle of Hyrule. After a few moments, I notice the elaborate archway leading into the Castle grounds standing in the distance. A large wrought iron gate bars all entry into the grounds.

'Dammit… him.' I curse upon seeing the familiar helmet and armor of the knight who guards the gate. 'And me with not a rupee to my name.'

I knew of this guard. A miser who would sell his own children if one was to offer a few rupees. Should I… contribute with a yellow rupee, he'd surely allow me through. However, with no money it is unlikely that I would have any success. I turn away from the gate, slipping behind the bend once more before the guard notices me.

Knowing that there is likely no possibility of persuading the guard I begin to scan the area for another route, a crevice in the rock, a safe place to scale… anything. After a moment, my eyes rest upon the boon I had searched for; a thick vine extending to the narrow ridge above the valley. Strange… I must have overlooked this before. Had I known about this, I may have avoided ever having to pay the guard's seedy toll during my first visit to the castle grounds.

I waste no time, grabbing the rough plant and climbing to the top of the ridge. Though it was in clear view of the castle, this side of the canyon is in fact, rather overgrown. The grass, tall and lush due to a lack of grooming, was nearly as tall as myself and my forest green tunic melds perfectly with the brush. An abandoned scaffold sits deeper within the brush, the unfinished remains of a watchman's tower which was abandoned when the location was deemed too treacherous for its construction. I make my way carefully through the overgrowth, taking care in my steps so as not to fall from the steep rise until the thicket finally opens into a small open area near the top of the archway. A carved phoenix of granite sits upon the top and gazes out toward the town, a silent watcher whose ruby eyes never sleep.

'I believe the statue makes for a more worthy guardian than that skinflint of a knight…' I think to myself in silent amusement as I watch the oblivious guard staring forward, his head nodding slightly in what I assume is boredom. With such an incompetent guard, it is small wonder why so many intruders are only apprehended after entering the grounds of the castle rather than prevented entry entirely.

Taking a few steps back, I break into a sprint, leaping nimbly off the narrow ledge and landing silently behind the gate, pushing myself into roll on landing. I plant my right hand on the dirt path, stopping my roll after the first rotation and get to my feet. I scan the area, making sure that I have not been noticed and after a moment continue up the winding slope toward the castle. It is now that I must be especially cautious. The patrolling knights are especially vigilant within the walls, and if they were to find me, I know not if they would simply throw me out of the castle grounds… or throw me into the dungeons.

I flatten myself against the wall and make my way stealthily along the path, but stop when the path begins to shift once more, remembering my first time sneaking though the castle grounds. I had become accustomed to the patrol routes of the guards during my first visit, and I knew that to go further would be dangerous. I chance an outward glance, noticing two more of the silvery armored knights watching the pathways, clutching their steel spears in gauntleted hands. These two were much more seasoned than the knight outside the gate, their eyes constantly scanning the area for intruders.

I wait until an opening presents itself, and both of their eyes have turned away before scrambling up a rigid section the wall. Glancing about quickly, I hoist myself up into the beautiful, grassy expanse outside the castle before making my way to the safety of a nearby tree. Grasping a low hanging branch, I pull myself up. Having been raised by Kokiri, I had much experience with trees, and was able to quickly find a branch strong enough to hold the weight of my child body.

I take a moment to rest, surveying the massive grounds from the safety of the dense leaves. From here I can see almost everything. The castle grounds are easily a fourth of the size of the city proper, nestled protectively inside a large wall, which separates them from the rest of the city. The grass is a mesmerizing shade of green, almost turquoise in color, and lush due to constant care by the castle's gardeners. Beautiful flowers in all colors dotted the landscape, as well as trees ranging in size and breed, from the tiny pink flowers of the Sintrise plant, to the tall, beautiful white trunks of the Hylian Ash.

The simple dirt path of the valley merges into a beautiful cobblestone road, which wound about the edge of the grounds, eventually leading to the castle proper. High-ranking nobles and ambassadors from other provinces often use this road when business required a visit to the castle. A fountain sat in the direct center of the grounds, much larger, and more ornate than the one in the city plaza. An image of the same three women, majestic and beautiful, holding aloft the divine Triforce sits in the center of the fountain. Water flows from the outstretched palms of the ladies into the top most level of the three tiered fountain, which would then flow to the second, and finally third level where the fountain extends into a shallow, rippling pool that sparkles like a sea of diamonds.

Hearing a faint whinny from my left, I turn to see the large public stables of the castle, situated near the gates, but far enough away that the sound and smell of the horses would not mar atmosphere other areas of the grounds. This is where the horses of those who visited the castle reside during their masters' stay, tended to by the castle's grooms. A somewhat smaller but more elaborate set of stables sits nearby for the use of the Royal Family's prized horses; some of the most admirable and coveted animals in all of Hyrule. The sounds of the noble animals turn my thoughts to my own equine companion, Epona. I could not have completed my journey without her help.

'Perhaps I will visit her.' I think to myself. 'If only to thank her for all she has done for me.'

In a secluded corner, far apart from the stables stands another construct, a medium sized building of marble and polished blue granite. A pair of tall, arch styled windows of stained glass sit on either side of a small staircase, leading to an elaborate mahogany door. Upon the door is a mosaic depicting the creation of the world of Ismirra by the Goddesses. Above the door is the solid gold image of a balance, with three triangles symbolizing the three forces surrounding it on the left, right, and above. It is an image of balance… of harmony. This is the oratory used by the Order of the Golden Scale; the elite paladin order of Hyrule. What they must have gone through to prove their worth that they would be accepted by such a noble, benevolent sect.

I remain in hiding for some time, surveying the grounds and memorizing the routes of the patrolling soldiers and knights. Having decided on the most effective route through the castle's guards I lower myself from my hiding place, and glance about briefly for any of the vigilant watchers. Seeing none, I break from the tree, dashing the short distance to a nearby shrubbery, which encompasses a portion of the castle grounds situated largely between the fountain and the oratory. The thicket provides excellent concealment as the shrubs and hedges are relatively tall, enough so that I can stand without being seen, but short enough that most of the knights can see over them so many guards do not feel the need to patrol within during the day.

After some time of pushing my way through the maze of greenery, I emerge on the far western end of the castle grounds, standing just before the battlements – another of the castle's many defenses – and far left of the small stone stairway, which provides access to the innermost section of the grounds. The surface is courser here, and cracks and deterioration are of a much larger scale than other parts of the wall, which makes climbing the surface much easier. I waste no time scaling the surface until I reach the very top, where I flatten myself against the rough surface. There is no cover here… no places to hide. I must stay as low to the ground as possible here, lest I be seen.

I can now see Hyrule Castle in all its glory… a magnificent structure located just at the base of the White Cap mountain range. It is a magnificent structure, heavily fortified by a high, thick wall of some hard grey stone with very few entrances; the most obvious of which being a massive steel and wood drawbridge which lead into the inner grounds. The castle lies just beyond the inner gardens. I have never seen the castle proper; only a small portion of the inner gardens… and Zelda's private courtyard.

I carefully and quietly crawl my way to the edge of the cliff overhanging the clear waters of the castle's moat, which serves as both a defense to ward off intruders, and the source of the castle's water, which flows directly from the Zora's River. Two soldiers stand just below me, guarding the only other access to the castle proper. I watch them for a time, waiting until their eyes are turned away, and quickly leap from the cliff, knowing my opening would be a brief one. A mass of blue fills my vision as I land with a splash in the cool waters, and a second later, I feel my feet touch the bottom. I push up, allowing my body to surface. I shake my head, slinging my now soaked hair away from my eyes.

"Did you hear that?" I hear a nearby voice say.

"Hear what?" Another replies, sounding older than the first.

"I heard something from the moat… it sounded like something fell in."

'Din's Fire!' I curse. 'They must have heard the splash.'

"I heard nothing."

"You may have not, but I did… I am going to investigate."

"Halt! You will do no such thing." The older guard replies harshly. "Do you not remember our orders? We are not to leave our posts until either the shift rotation or in the event that we are summoned by either King Gustav, Princesses Zelda and Liene, or Commandant Illisarian."

I sigh in relief. Thank the Goddesses. It does not appear as if the older knight is going to allow his cohort to investigate. If he had, I may have been caught.

"But what if someone means to enter the castle? It has been attempted before." The younger replies.

"And what happened to them, Sennik? They were caught. All of them. The commoners were thrown out of the grounds, and the thieves were jailed. We have naught to fear." The older man sighed. "It was likely some animal that ended up falling into the moat. Be that the case, we will simply have one of the drudges fish it out."

Leaving the two guards to their discussion, I push silently away from the rim of the moat, allowing the gentle flow of the water carry me down stream toward the eastern side of the castle. After a few moments of drifting, I begin to near a bend in the moat. To my left is a large grate where the water passes through, where it would later be redirected back into the Zora's River. To my right is a small mound of various minerals; soil, rocks, and twigs piled neatly in the corner of the bend, drawn to this specific area by way of a magical current. This quality of the moat was likely made in order to remove the impurities from the water, allowing it to be safe to drink without the need for boiling or magical purification. However, for me it also served an ulterior purpose; providing me a way to access the eastern end of the castle.

I make my way up the mound, easily ascending the debris, and use the higher elevation to climb from the moat and back onto the dirt path behind the castle battlements. I turn to the left, and make my way to the side of the castle. There are no guards – indeed, there is not much TO guard in this area. A simple storage room lay within the wall of the castle with no entrances to the castle proper within, and suspended across the moat, the only entrance to the castle is a small drain that only a child could fit through.

Luckily for me, I am a child.

Upon my initial visit, I had used a pair of milk crates left behind by Talon Lon. Talon is the rather lazy baron of the Lon Lon Estate, a small estate only a few short hours from Hyrule City, near the village of Bahn, which makes its fortune via farming, horse breeding. The crates are no longer here, but I care not. I will not let that stop me from entering. Taking a few steps back, I run toward the edge of the moat, pushing off the ground as I reach it. I begin to soar through the air, passing some feet above the water below. After a few seconds, I land skillfully on the narrow ledge that surrounds the drain, a small opening within the marble wall reinforced by plates of decorated steel framed wood.

'It seems as if my skills have remained… even if my body has not. I would never have made that jump when I first came here…' I think to myself, impressed by how much I have improved.

I waste no time, ducking into the small scissure, and began to crawl my way to the other side. There was not much light inside the small tunnel, but it did not matter, for I could easily see from the gleam before me, the other side of this more unorthodox entrance into the inner castle grounds.

I emerge moments later and find myself standing within a small, unadorned fountain on the far edge of the inner gardens, which served as drain for excess water. I make my way forward, stepping silently so not to alert the many guards, passing what appears to be another storage area, barrels and crates piled haphazardly near a small nondescript wooden door. Eventually I enter a large garden within the grounds; a maze of hedges, flowers and small trees.

A large wall of thick hedging blocks my way and I follow it around to an opening in the shrubs. Before I can continue however, I am forced to retreat when I hear the clanking armor of an approaching knight. I duck behind the hedge and watch through dense greenery as an older, more seasoned knight passes near where I had stood only seconds before. Had my senses been any less sharp, it is likely he would have seen me. He scans the area from left to right before continuing his patrol. I wait for a moment, allowing him to turn and disappear behind the ring of hedges before stepping out, and silently following him. I glance around the corner he had turned moments before and scan the area for any sign of him, only just managing to see the plumb of his helmet before he vanished from my sight.

With the guard unconscious to my presence, I continue on through the maze of greenery, heading deeper into the castle's inner gardens. Many of the guards in this area are quite inattentive. No one has ever penetrated this far into the castle save me, but I had never been caught – Moreover, it may as well have been another time – and therefore only the guards in the furthest reaches of the gardens remained watchful for intruders.

I pass another pair of guards who stand near the base of a large bronze statue of a legendary Hylian Knight centered between two small fountains of sandstone and bronze; simple, but expertly crafted. The two knights chatter amongst themselves, speaking words that I cannot hear. It was likely that I could simply walk past them and they would not even notice, but I do not want to take such a chance. I wait for a moment until the two move safely out of earshot before moving on.

I continue on, passing over another knight, guarding the inner area of a section of the garden, which was largely comprised of various rose species. Using the wooden supports it is easy for me to pass overhead without being seen. Two more knights patrolling about a much more elaborate statue prove no greater trouble. Through they are much more attentive than the other guards thus far, their patrol patterns are predictable, and I am easily able to find a blind spot to slip through.

Then there are the final guards. They would be very difficult to get by. Being so close to the castle proper, and a certain member of the Royal Family, the two were highly alert, moving swiftly as their sharp eyes scan the premises. One was a short but stocky man, many years the senior of his taller, swifter counterpart. Any other distinguishing features are lost beneath the thick iron and steel armor the two wear. Sticking to the shadows and blending with the abundant greenery, I carefully inch my way along the final area of the large arboretum, moving only when the knight's eyes are turned away.

Eventually, but with no small amount of effort I reach the final corridor. I quickly, but silently turn down the final path to my destination, distancing myself from the patrolling guards. A large marble archway lay before me, and I know that the one for whom I had come lay just beyond. I begin to feel anxious, frightened even. My skin tingles, my mouth begins to dry, and I feel an unpleasant sensation throughout my entire body. Would she remember me? What if she, like Navi, had forgotten everything the moment the spell had returned us to this point in our lives? And if they had? Would she welcome me as she had on the day we first met so long ago? Or would she summon the Knights for fear of her life? Scenarios play through my head, one after another, the uncertainty beginning to smother me with my own thoughts.

Just as my resolve starts to wane, the warming light of the Triforce of Courage flows through me, urging me on. I shake away the unpleasantness and continue through to the private courtyard of Hyrule's Crown Princess. Of the few areas in the castle that I have had the privilege of seeing, this one is my favorite. White walls with beautiful gilded windows surround a circular room. No roof covers it, nor does it need one, the sun and sky creating an ever-changing plafond in the heavens. A pleasing scent fills the air, wafting from a large bed of flowers, containing nearly a score of sweet smelling plants, creating a perfume of alluring scents. The light trickling of water reaches my ears, originating from the small moat, which flow around the garden, providing constant sustenance to the beautiful flowers. Small trees circle the outer rim of the island-like courtyard, placed at regular intervals near the moat. I slowly and carefully make my way across the garden, being careful not to damage any of the fragile plants.

I stop when I reach a small raised dais at the end of the beautiful garden and stare speechless at the figure standing upon it. It is a young girl in elegant clothing standing with her back turned to me, and I find myself unable to move, paralyzed by her presence and the knowledge of who she is. She does not appear to notice me, gazing attentively through a window, into a brightly lit room within the castle. I open my mouth to speak, but no words come. I can do nothing but stare as she gazes through the window, hands pressed against the frame, as if focused on something I cannot fathom. After what feels like an eternity, she seems to finally sense my presence and turns with a start. She stares back at me, mouth agape.

She is just as I remember. Her beautiful sapphire colored eyes, full of innocence and nobility. Her long golden hair, largely hidden beneath white veil, lined with purple silk, and adorned by a beautiful bronze and gold medallion depicting the image of the Triforce. An elegant three layered dress covers her body with the first layer consisting of a rich violet mantle of silk which hangs from her shoulders, covering her upper body and splitting into two segments at her waist. A white simple white dress of satin serves is worn beneath the mantle, patterned similarly to her veil, with the turquoise sleeves of a chemise extending down her arms to her wrists, covered by golden bangles. Hanging from her neck is an intricate golden amulet, the medallion in the shape of a blazing sun set with a perfectly spherical ruby.

The little girl I've always known… Zelda… my Zelda.

"L-Link?" She stammers, voice atremble.

I gasp, struggling to find my voice. "Zelda you… you remember me?"

"Is this a dream? Link… is it you…?" She whispers looking as stunned as I feel, her angelic voice atremble.

"Zelda…" I begin, but find myself unable to say the words.

She appears to be as speechless as I. It feels as if time itself freezes in that moment. I no longer feel the gentle breeze, nor smell the sweet scent of the flowers. The sounds of the tricking moat die away before ever reaching my ears and it seems like everything surrounding me melts away, leaving only her.

When I finally regain some semblance of reality, I am unable to contain the torrent of emotions raging within me. I rush forward, up the small staircase and embrace her, firmly, but not tightly enough to hurt her. I close my eyes, delighting in this feeling of warmth. Though my mind begs me to let her go, every moral and logical principle I have learned over the years screaming at once that this is wrong, my body… or perhaps my heart does not allow me to do so.

It is only when I open my eyes and look at the little girl I have loved since the beginning that I realize which part of me was right. Her eyes are closed, the almond shaped sapphires hidden from view beneath her eyelids, and her breathing is soft, and content as if she were sleeping. Her head rests against my chest, the left side buried into the cloth of my tunic. Her arms are wrapped about my waist, locking her body to my own. She nuzzles against me, shifting her body closer, and it is only now that I realize that the same surge of emotion that caused me to act so impulsively must have affected her as well. I respond, pulling her closer, and continuing to hold her unwilling to allow this moment to end.

End, it must however, and after some time – how long I cannot say – we part from our embrace, though our arms still hold one another, both of us still unwilling to let go. Now able to see her more clearly, I gaze into the royal daughter's eyes, seeing her knowing, and recognition.

Zelda, my princess, and my unknowing love, remembers me.

I continue to stare at her, at a loss of what to say next. She too, says nothing, and only stares back at me, eyes wide.

"Zelda I-"

I am unable to finish the sentence before I am wrenched away from her, thrown off balance by an unseen force. My back strikes one of the older saplings, the force sending nearly all of the breath from my lungs, and a throbbing pain courses through my back, and right hip from the force of the impact. I hear a stifled scream from nearby, unmistakably from Zelda. It is only now I realize that something, or rather someone has attacked me.

Sensing further danger, I roll to the side, only barely catching a glimpse of a silver haired female assailant as she drives her twin blades into the ground where I lay only a split second before. I swiftly rise to my feet, preparing myself for further attack. The attacker pulls her blades from the ground, and their silver edges gleam beautifully in the light as she searches for her missed target; me. She glances to left, then the right finally locking eyes with me. I freeze, recognizing the identity of my attacker as she turns to face me.

She is a middle aged Sheikan woman, lithe, strong, and acrobatic. Her silver hair is of a medium length, tied in a small tail in the back of her head. Her eyes are like two crimson flames, burning with resolve. Markings, similar to claws are painted beneath her crimson eyes, giving their already proud nature a touch of fierceness. She wears a dark blue body suit that covers her body down to her upper legs, which tight fitting, but flexible if the grace of her movements is any indication, while pair of blue and black leather guards cover her shoulders offering a bit of protection that the suit would not provide in itself. A blue-chained amulet hangs from her neck, holding a diamond shaped talisman with the emblem of the Sheikah; the Eye of Truth, emblazoned in white. She wears a silvery leather jerkin over her clothing, and black leather gloves cover her palms and lower arms, leaving her fingers free of constraints. A pair of light jet-black boots cover the lower legs, leaving only her knees bare.

Within her hands, she holds two tantōs, the blades of which are made of a silvery grey steel, with complicated Sheikan symbols forged within the blade in obsidian, giving the shapes a look as if having attained the perfect balance between the shadow, and light. The blades were single edged, and curved, though still slightly longer than my own straight edged Kokiri Sword.

"Impa?" I gasp in shock.

She lunges at me again, however this time I manage to leap out of the way before she strikes me. I quickly wheel about as I land only to see her facing me once more.

"I must commend you… it takes much skill to sneak this far into the castle grounds, assassin." She speaks in her low, shadowed voice, the words dripping with conviction.

"Assassin?" I reply. 'She thinks me an assassin…'

"Who else would have the motive, or the skills to pass so easily into Her Highness' private courtyard?" She asks, lunging at me again.

I leap away, landing with a roll within the flowers, flattening some before I am able to stop myself with my shield arm. I immediately scramble to my feet, drawing my sword, and shield, in a bid to defend myself from the Sheikah's valiant, but ultimately misunderstood attack. She lunges at me a third time, but this time I refuse to run. I catch the blade of one of the tantōs with my sword, and halt the second with my shield. She pushes against me attempting to break my guard as I do the same to the opposite effect, our weapons locked in a stalemate.

"You would not believe my words, even if I was to tell you why I have come." I say before the two of us push away, each leaping to opposite ends of the garden.

Again, she attacks, rushing at me with a speed I was never even aware that she was capable of. She strikes at me multiple times, each in a fluid motion like a dance of death. I am hard pressed to maintain my guard. Repeatedly she strikes, never tiring, never angering even when each of her strokes fall short. I never attack even in the presence of an opening however, not wishing to harm the Sheikan warrior, though it would be miraculous to emerge victorious regardless with my glaring disadvantage in this duel.

The clash continues for what feels like forever her strikes constantly being deflected by my unfaltering defenses, until finally, with one vicious thrust, the Sheikah manages to pierce the hard wood of my Deku shield. The curved blade bites into the flesh of by right arm, resulting in a small stream of rich blood. I grit my teeth in pain as she pushes further on the blade, attempting to break my guard. My vision begins to blur from the pain as the blade bites even deeper into my skin, expanding the wound further and causing even more of the thick indigo fluid to stream down my arm. I cannot overpower her, but there is no way I can endure this indefinitely.

I twist my arm to the left, and then swing it violently to the right, attempting to wrench the blade away from my arm. The silvery dagger bends from the strain, the obsidian markings crack and splinter, and I succeed in pulling the weapon from Impa's hand, sending both the pierced shield, and mangled blade into the moat. However, though I succeed in partially disarming her, I too am now left without a means of defense. My right arm hangs uselessly at my side, warm fresh blood leaving trails of blue along the skin. With my left arm holding her second blade at bay, I can do naught but wait for the Sheikah's next action, hoping that it would break the stalemate between us.

My hopes are only slightly confirmed, though far from the way I had hoped. Impa clinches her now weaponless fist, which begins to pulsate with a deep violet energy. All I can do is watch as she throws her arm forward at my chest, opening the palm of her hand, as it approaches my abdomen. A forceful shockwave sends me flying through the air. Another sudden sharp pain in my back tells me that I have been forcibly stopped by the garden's marble wall. I start to groan, but am cut off as I feel a pressure against my throat. I unsteadily open my eyes, vision blurred from the pain of the impact, and see Impa clutching the neckline of my tunic in her now free hand, her dagger poised at my neck with the other.

"You fight as well as I have always known… Sage of Shadow." I manage to say through my weariness.

The crimson-eyed Sheikah gasps, obviously caught off guard by my words. "What… did you just call me?"

"That is who you are… Impa, though you may not remember." I reply. "As I mentioned before… I do not expect you to listen to my words, but…" I notice Zelda standing nearby, a frightened expression marring her beautiful face.

"Impa… let Link go." She says in a soft, worried tone. "He means neither me, nor anyone else harm. Please, release him."

"…but, perhaps you will listen to her?" I finish.

The Sheikah pauses for a moment in thought, before finally loosening her grip and lowering me to the ground. I walk unsteadily through the waters of the moat, clutching my wounded arm until I reach the edge where Zelda waits. The princess offers her hand, carefully helping me from the moat. I attempt to stand again but she stops me, pushing me back into a kneeling position. I glance around the area, and frown as my eyes fall upon the flower garden, which has been torn asunder by my clash with Impa. Petals from the flowers drift slowly to the ground, blanketing the grass in various shades of reds, pinks, yellows and blues.

"Zelda…" begin apologetically. "I did not mean to-"

"Be still, Link…" She interrupts soothingly. "Let me help you…"

Zelda closes her eyes, and places her hands slightly above my wounded harm, one covering the other. A glowing, bluish light forms around her hands, sending a pleasant, cooling feeling into my arm. The sensation intensifies until the pain is all but gone.

"Nayru's Kiss…" She mutters speaking the name of the spell to complete her casting.

I watch in astonishment as the wound inflicted by Impa's blade begins to close slowly, even as the remainder of the pain dies away entirely. As the spell ends, I move my arm slightly, experimenting to make sure that all was well. I look back at Zelda in amazement. I had only seen such an effect before from the healing potions. I have never even heard of such magic before… though I do not know much of the art outside of what I've seen and used. She lowers her arms and it is then I notice the Triforce of Wisdom glowing on the back of her right hand. I hear a gasp from behind me, which I can only assume was from Impa, likely having seen what I had. Zelda helps me to my feet, and the two of us turn to the paralyzed Sheikah.

"Link… show her." Zelda says.

I do not need to ask what she means. I lift my left hand, palm facing inward and reveal the Triforce of Courage to Zelda's Sheikan guardian. The symbol shimmered radiantly in the light, shining with power, but not blinding. Three small triangles each connected to form a larger one, with the lower right portion shining brighter than the rest. Impa emits a second gasp, and steps backward, obviously knowing full well what this meant.

"The marks of Wisdom and Courage…" She chokes. "But… how? How have the two of you acquired the aspects of the gods?"

"This story is a long one, and you may find it very difficult to believe Impa." I say.

"I care not." Impa replies. "I see it now. Your eyes show what your bodies and voices never could. Zelda, you have matured much, as if instantly. I see in you, an air of justice, and nobility that I've never seen before. And in you Link, I see a sense of valor that even the knights of old would admire. What has happened to you, since last I saw you, Zelda…? And how do you know this courageous lad? Please… tell me what has happened to the two of you."

"Very well, Impa…" Zelda says. "We shall start from the beginning."

Hours pass before we finally finish our tale and the sun has now risen high into the sky as the final words are spoken. Impa stares at us, her voice having left her. Her crimson eyes are wide and filled with a strange amalgam of conflicting thoughts, from amazement to disbelief. It takes much longer than I would expect from one such as her, but eventually she appears to regain her composure, albeit slowly. She shakes her head, likely in a vain attempt to fathom what she has heard, and looks back at us with shocked eyes. Zelda and I wait patiently for her normally calm and stoic guardian to recover from what we have just told her.

"Amazing…" She says after some time. "To think, that after all these years, the legends are true."

"Then you believe us?" Zelda asks hopefully.

"I've never doubted you, Zelda… and I never will. How can I doubt you, when the proof lies before me even now?" Impa replies glancing down at our hands, where the Triforce symbols glow softly with golden light. "I may be old, but I am not that old, and know that what I see now is not an illusion created by an aging mind. Yes, Zelda, I believe you."

"Impa… thank you." Zelda replies, smiling for the first time sense my arrival.

Impa nods. "The two of you have been through much, in such seemingly short time. Zelda… I am proud of how much you've grown." She pauses for a moment and turns to me, a slight smile gracing her lips. "Please forgive me for attacking you. As the princess' guardian, I am responsible for her safety. Now however, I see how wrong I was in assuming that you meant to harm her. I acted irrationally, and I apologize for my mistake."

"You did what you believed to be best for Zelda." I reply. "You needn't apologize for protecting her, Impa. In your position, I would surely have done the same."

"Be that as it may, I should be thanking you for protecting her, when I could not." She replies. "Though I have no memory of that dark time, I am no less grateful for what you've done."

"Thank you, Impa." I reply, bowing humbly to the Sheikah. "It was my honor."

"That said, I will leave you to speak alone for now." Impa says, turning for the archway. "Having come all this way and risking capture by the knights, I would assume that you have much to discuss with Her Highness."

"I… In all honesty, I did not give much thought to what I meant to say when I arrived." I confess. "After what has happened I simply had to know."

"Rather Zelda's memories were spared as yours were." Impa finished knowingly. "I understand. Take as much time as you require."

She gives a slight smile, and for a moment it seems like something shows within her eyes, something hidden, as if veiled in shadow, its identity unknown, but its presence obvious. Before I can determine more of this peculiarity, she turns around, and proceeds through the entryway to the garden, disappearing into the mazelike courtyard beyond. I turn to Zelda, and am immediately caught off guard when she embraces me, burying her face into my tunic once again.

"I am so happy to see you again…" She whispers, causing my heart to quicken.

Despite my shock, I return the embrace, holding her close to me like the most precious of treasures.

"As am I, Zelda… as am I."

We continue to hold each other, saying nothing else. I run my left hand up and down her back, enjoying the feel of her silken dress, and the warmth of her body underneath. She sighs in response to the gesture, and the sound sends a fluttering sensation throughout my body. She pulls me closer, and my head comes to a rest on top of hers. My nose is suddenly filled with the scent of her; fair, and pleasing, as if the very flowers themselves have blessed her with their sweetness.

She looks up at me after a moment, her eyes glistening once more with tears. These were neither tears of helplessness, nor tears of sorrow however. I could see the overwhelming happiness within her eyes. Happiness in our reunion. I imagine that I myself must be showing the same thing, for she smiles warmly upon meeting my gaze.

"I was afraid… I was afraid that I was the only one." She says softly. I do not need to ask what she means; for it is the same thing that I felt the moment I stepped away from the Master Sword's pedestal, once I had returned to this time.

"I, too, was afraid Zelda." I reply.

It is then that a memory flashes through my mind; the memory of my dear companion whose own memory of me had been lost to the flow of time. It was only hours before that she had disappeared through the clerestory of the Temple of Time. Zelda's smile slowly fades into a worried frown, and I realize that the painful memory must have shown in my expression.

"I feared that you would have forgotten me… just as she did." I say sadly.

"She?" Zelda asks.

"Navi…"

The Princess gasps. "Oh Link, please forgive me… I did not realize that she was not here. What happened? Do you mean to say that she…"

I nod, attempting to hinder my renewed sorrow. Despite my attempts however, I can feel the tears begin to well up in my eyes. Zelda embraces me once more, her blue eyes gazing into mine compassionately. I've never known that this beautiful, blue eyed angel cared for me as much as she now showed, and the revelation warmed my heart. My sadness begins to recede the longer I look at her. It is as if all of the pain of the recent hours is slowly being washed away in the radiant, sapphirine ocean that is her eyes.

"Never…" she coos gently. "I will never forget… I can never forget."

"Zelda…"

I begin to speak but find myself unable to say anything more. Yet, even this seems to deliver my gratitude for what she has done, as she smiles warmly upon hearing her name. That smile… that beautiful innocent smile. It is all the remedy my troubled soul needs. I smile in return, showing silent gratitude for her care before I slowly begin to release her, albeit reluctantly as she does the same. I continue to hold her small hand within mine, smiling back at her after a moment, my sorrow at the loss of Navi having vanished for the time being.

A warm sensation radiates from my hand, a sensation that is quickly becoming very familiar to me since the awakening at the black castle of Ganondorf. Zelda's expression changes as well, and our eyes move as one to our hands. Our fingers remained entwined, and upon the back of our hands the Triforces of Wisdom and Courage glimmer radiantly, like two sisters reunited after years of separation.

"I see…" I say with a smile. "You wished to see her as well."

"Link?" the Princess asks. "What is happening?"

"She guided me here… back to you." I reply.

"Guided you? Of whom do you speak?" Zelda asked.

"Courage." I clarify. "It seems as if she wished to see her sister, as much as I wished to see you."

"I…" Zelda began.

I turn my eyes back to Zelda, allowing the golden sisters their time. A question surfaces in my mind, and I pause for a moment, attempting to think of the proper way to ask. I did not wish to hurt her by asking such a question, and yet if I said nothing, the uncertainty would continue to hang over me. I had to know.

"Why did you say it?" I ask purposefully, though not condemningly.

"What…?" Zelda asks, seeming to notice the importance of the seemingly simple question.

"Why did you say 'goodbye'?" I ask. "After we spoke so much on our future… after we made a vow never to forget. Why did you say it?"

Zelda lowered her eyes guiltily; an expression which breaks my heart. "I was… afraid." She replies meekly.

She pauses, her eyes remaining apart from mine for a time. Dammit! Why could I have simply left well enough alone? I'd only succeeded in doing what I had tried so hard not too. Had I simply remained silent I could have avoided this.

"Zelda, forgive me… I did not mean to upset you." I say regretfully.

She turns back to me, her eyes still glistening with tears. "I was afraid…" She repeats. "I was afraid of what would happen… if we were like the others. I was afraid of the possibility of never seeing you again." She seems to be trying her utmost to hold her tears at bay as she explains, and I myself feel my own threatening to show themselves as well. "I could not bare the thought of seeing you for the last time, and not even saying a final goodbye. I could never live with myself should that happen to us."

"I… see." I say, understandingly. "I suppose… had you not said it… I might have in your stead."

"I am so sorry. I know it was painful to hear… but it was just as painful to say." She says.

"I understand, Zelda. Apologize not." I reply. "Thank you."

"For what?" I pause for a moment, squeezing her hand gently.

"For caring."

She smiles at me, and I return the favor. Our eyes turn as one toward the garden, where the petals of the flowers now coat the ground. A gentle breeze wafts through the courtyard, sending some of the multicolored blossoms into the air, and filling the area with their fragrance. The sight is nothing short of magical, and I find myself staring as the beautiful, fragile corolla drift slowly to the ground once more. I eventually recover enough to glance to my side, where Zelda gazes mesmerized at the scene before us.

"Your garden…" I say, remembering the reason for this new scene.

The princess turns to me and smiles warmly. "Worry not, Link. Somehow… it looks more beautiful than it ever has. I… rather enjoy the way the petals drift in this state. It is pleasing… in a way."

"If you insist… though I cannot imagine how much effort you must have put into those flowers." I concede reluctantly.

"It is well." She reassures continuing to smile, pausing for a moment in thought before continuing. "…Would you sit with me?"

"W-what?" I ask, caught off guard by the question, though I could not help but notice the shyness in which she voiced the question.

"We've been standing for hours now… do you not wish to rest?" she asks honestly, her eyes turning away from me for a moment. "If you do not wish to, it is well but…"

"I beg your pardon… the question merely startled me." I say honestly, cutting her off before she can assume the negative. "I would be honored, Zelda. I did not mean to imply anything less."

We make our way to the edge of the trickling, crystal clear water and sit down in the soft grass before it. The wind picks up once again, causing another swirling of petals and replenishing the air with their sweet scent. I inhale deeply, the clean cool air filling my lungs with new breath, and my spirit with contentment. Zelda sits next to me, her knees drawn slightly for comfort. Her lips purse in a small smile as she allows a delicate orange petal fall into the palm of her hand. More petals float upon the gentle currents of the small, makeshift stream.

A twisted blade and splintered wooden shield drift lazily by moments later. I fish the shield from the water and carefully separate it from the blade. I'd have to get a new one as there is no way it can be used in this state. Spread diagonally across the surface from the impact point is a large, jagged crack. It would likely split in half at even the slightest impact now. With a wave of my hand I banish the shield into the Aethereal Realm to store until I can dispose of it properly before leaning back slightly in content.

"I thought that I'd never feel this again…" I say. "This feeling of peace."

"I am glad it is finally over." Zelda replies tranquilly. "Even if no one knows what we've done… I am happy that my people are safe."

"Even if no one remembers, I am glad we do." I amend with a smile. "These memories… they are too precious to simply toss aside like a shattered rupee. I'm glad I remember… even if some remain that I wish did not."

"As you told me before Link," the princess begins. "There are some memories that I would rather forget. However, there are also many that I wish to keep… and I am glad that I was allowed to."

I do not reply. I do not need to. She smiles gently at me, her beautiful sapphire eyes shining with contentment. She is happy… and for that, I am glad. I feel a familiar sensation run through my left hand once more, and I look down to see Courage shimmering gently. Wisdom pulses in response upon Zelda's hand which sat not an inch from mine. I follow her arm upward until my eyes meet hers. She smiles and I nod understandingly, moving my hand to hers and lacing my fingers with hers. The two forces shine briefly in response before fading to a soft, pleasing glow.

Authors notes: So! How's this for lightening up the mood set by the prologue? A happy reunion.

Some of you have probably noticed the new subtitle 'Divinus Minae'. Well the reason is because I originally intended for Trials of the Heart to be a stand-alone fanfic… but with as much detail as I'm going into I feel like it would be wasted to limit it all to one story. So I think, provided this story goes well, that I may write a sequel as well… and maybe even more than that, but that's much further in the future. So if you like the story this will be good news maybe!

Divinus Minae is Latin. In English it translates to Divine Paradox. So you have a general idea of what the story is going to be about now. I figured the Latin might make it a bit more unique.

A few more points. I'll try to make it shorter next time, but I felt this was necessary to avoid confusion. Besides, no one NEEDS to read this unless they would want a little more insight on certain points in the story.

1. As Ismirra was created by three FEMALE goddesses, I felt it was only natural that the religious system in Hyrule should be chiefly matriarchal. The religious castes start with the Acolytes. As anyone familiar with the terms knows, they are the bottom rung. Candle holders, alter boys… that kind of thing. Next in line are the priests… I doubt that needs any explanation. Bishops are further up still. They handle official matters that relate to the church. The High Priestess is the highest possible position and can only be held by a female. The High Priestess oversees all functions of the lower castes, conducts initiations, and acts as a religious adviser to the Royal Family. The church is a separate entity from the Crown, but the two are tightly knit.

2. When I refer to Hyrule City, I do not mean the typical very small Hyrule Castle Town. My version of Hyrule, from cities to the world itself is on a much more massive scale than Nintendo's. Hyrule City is a bustling metropolis, which is divided into various 'districts'. Within the city is large market district, a religious district, three residential districts for Commoners, Nobles, and the Middle Classes (Merchants and Artisans), the city plaza, and the Royal Quarter. There are three commercial entrances to the city via draw bridges, as well as waterways (Separated from the sewer system) for the Zora's usage. The city is in the shape of a semicircle with the Royal Quarter and castle in the direct center, nestled at the base of the mountains. The only entrance to the Royal Quarter is from the plaza. I didn't go into much detail on Hyrule Castle itself because this story is in first person perspective… and Link has never SEEN Hyrule Castle except the short path to Zelda's courtyard, and the courtyard itself. (Mind you, in my version of Hyrule the castle isn't plainly visible… it's behind a thick wall of granite as I explained.) Therefore, Link would not know what the Castle looks like and would not be able to describe it accurately.

3. I've seen plenty of Daphnes' and plenty of Harkinians in fan fiction, but I never see any Gustavs. I felt it would be appropriate to reference him. The current King of Hyrule is Gustav Hyrule IV. He is NOT the Gustav from Minish Cap, he is a distant descendant.

4. The blood of the Hylian's is not red as is typical from a lot of 'human' races. Hylian blood is instead a rich blue color, similar to the color of the sky on a clear day when the sun has gone down but it isn't totally black yet. A small thing to note.

5. Someone who read the first draft of this chapter mentioned that I may have made Link too mature. If anyone else has this impression I have a reason for it. Even though I do believe that when Link was first thrown into the future he still had the mind of a child, I also believe that changed as time went on. Think of it this way; what if what Link went through after awakening was actually a bit more realistic than the game shows? Fear, pain, sorrow and death would all be involved. The Hyrule Link woke up in was no longer a Kingdom, it was a Hell. Would a CHILD really have been able to survive that? Unlikely. I think that Link was forced to grow up rather fast during his quest. If he didn't, he likely would have died before ever reaching the Shadow Temple. Link likely learned what it meant to be an adult where he could and thus matured quickly (He did know what Ruto meant when they met in the Water Temple… and it certainly seemed to me that he was NOT happy about it). Moreover, even in the beginning of the game for what little you can tell, Link seems to be rather mature for his age… more so than most of the Kokiri that's for sure and they're likely much older than he is. Anyways, that's the reason I'm making him so mature in this story.

Sorry that these have been so long winded. I seem to have a problem with that. Anyways, hope you enjoyed the chapter.

Reviews are awesome… just like pie.