Chapter 12
The heat of the persistent summer sun felt like a brand upon Link's back as he galloped across the fields of Hyrule atop Epona. It was a scorching he felt emotionally as much as physically as he gazed upon the familiar land he vowed a year prior he would not return to. During his absence, he naively thought that the physical distance would provide him the mental respite he needed to process all that occurred. And while he did find recovery from his heartache with Zelda, his turmoil had not subsided. His desire to protect those he cared about was his primary motivation for leaving Hyrule, but he also could not deny that he wanted to likewise shield himself from pain. The pain of losing Malon, his friend he recognized he deeply wounded, but whom he only recently understood the depth of his feelings for.
Malon…
It wasn't until he recovered from the ordeal with Zelda, accepting that their relationship was to remain platonic, that his heart felt free to see Malon in a new light. At first the thought of her stirred sorrow over the unresolved manner in which they parted, but as the months passed, he found a regret growing in place of the sorrow. With the knowledge he now had of her affection for him, he reflected on their past interactions with an enlightenment afforded to him all too late.
Too late did he realize that the admiration and tenderness she beheld him with stemmed from a love that went unrequited for years. Romance for the Hero of Time would only mean trouble, he was convinced, and he never wanted to place her in any kind of peril. He only wanted what was best for her. But despite his good intentions, he still failed in his duty and as her friend. How could he have let things come to this? How could he have been so blind? Despite all of the knowledge he gained from his travels, he knew next to nothing about romance.
One memory often at the forefront of his mind was the occasion he thwarted a gang of bandits from pillaging Lon Lon Ranch. Despite easily disarming and driving them away, he managed to sustain some minor abrasions which Malon insisted on tending to. As she gingerly traced and applied ointment to the scrapes on his hands, he casually glanced up, truly noticing for the first time her beauty. Her beauty was far distinguished from any he had ever seen, and only enhanced by the fact that she was so astonishingly unaware of the affect she had on him and anyone who encountered her. Her desire to serve all who stepped foot in the ranch caused her cerulean eyes to alight with a benevolence that made those she regarded feel as if they were as notable as the royal family. It was this gaze she favored him with as she glanced up. Her eyes shone bright with wonder and admiration in a manner unlike any woman had ever gazed upon him before, and it was as alarming as it was captivating. Why did he feel so strange? Before he could ponder the matter further, she quickly glanced down to conceal her blush, which Link was both disappointed by and grateful for. Never before had he shared such a meaningful gaze with anyone, and in the days that followed, he couldn't help but notice a certain radiance about Malon, distinct from her usual chipper demeanor.
If only he had paid more attention. If only he had taken the time to understand the captivation he felt…
But he hadn't. That was why he was taken aback by the change in her mannerisms that seemed so peculiar and subtle at the time, but now just felt painfully obvious. It was discernible enough to draw Talon's attention, whose eyes danced with laughter as he not so subtly suggested Link reconsider his offer to marry Malon, extended to him after his successful competition of the cucco challenge. Malon's startled, indignant response put an end to Talon's playful banter, but Link did not completely miss her shy, sidelong glance at him. Her eyes glimmered with a hope that he mistakenly attributed to a nonverbal plea to divert Talon's attention elsewhere. His nonchalant chuckle and dismissal of Talon's thinly veiled implication before changing the subject was the first time he recalled noticing Malon's newfound radiance flicker.
If only he had been bold enough to later inquire about the sudden change in her disposition. If only he hadn't been so quick to dismiss his desire for a relationship all for the sake of avoiding complications…
But he had been far too preoccupied with his responsibilities as the Hero of Time to indulge such thoughts. Often traveling and finding himself in the midst of battle, how could he expect someone to commit to him without understanding that he might perish at any moment? One mistake. One moment of letting down his guard and he would be done for. No. It would be selfish to become involved with someone when he couldn't promise that he would return safely. That was why he was so susceptible to Zelda's love-potion-inspired advances, he realized. She was the only woman who knew of his role and could understand his reservations about entering a relationship.
But suppose he had confided in Malon on one of the many occasions she inquired about his past? Suppose he entrusted her with that part of him he shared with no one, yet was the very core of his identity? While he initially decided against it as a measure of protection- and because he was not certain she would even believe him- the truth was that he was afraid. What if he realized that life could be even more enjoyable knowing he could depend on her not only as a friend but maybe as something more? How would a relationship, especially with the constant peril he faced, change the trajectory of their lives? He didn't know, but in leaving he had unfairly denied both of them the chance to find out.
Clutching the reins as Lon Lon Ranch loomed before him, he slowed Epona to a steady trot. Sighing, he momentarily found himself wondering if it was perhaps too late to remedy his folly. Such thoughts incited an anxiety in him greater than any he had ever experienced before. It felt akin to the immobilizing terror Ganondorf instilled in him, and if he were to be completely honest, the apprehension he felt when facing Zelda after the disenchantment. His heart was pounding so loudly it was deafening. It shrouded his senses so that as he dismounted he was unaware of Malon approaching.
Malon knew that sound anywhere. The sound of Epona's hooves and Link's boots as he dismounted and trudged toward the barn. He looked just as she remembered him all those months ago. The green tunic, the shield and the sword were an inseparable part of him. Catching his hair shining golden in the fading light, she strode forward and paused, drawn to her reflection in the kitchen window. The sight she saw caused her to emit a discontented sigh. Her hands were calloused from the months of increased chores she was tasked with as her father's health continued to decline. Her hair was disheveled with several crimson strands cascading rebelliously across her face. She glanced at her boots, which at one time were a beautiful brown leather, now faded to grey with holes forming at the toes. Angrily wiping her hands on her apron, she fought back the realization that she will never have the delicate, refined beauty of Princess Zelda. That's who Link wanted anyway.
She had spent more time than she cared to confess rehearsing the words she would have with Link should he ever return to the ranch. The moment she awoke and learned that he left, the resulting heartache that consumed her after her shock abated felt like an inferno devouring everything within, leaving her listless. How could he just leave without a word? Wasn't she at least worth that? It wasn't until she happened upon his letter that she was given some clarity, which managed to douse the insatiable fire somewhat. But surely that fire would reignite once she saw him again, she reasoned. She could not have been more unprepared for the flood of compassion that besieged her as she drew close enough to see Link leaning against Epona with his head in his hands.
She had always known he carried some burden that went far beyond the demands of his role as mercenary or the insecurity accompanying his vagabond lifestyle. Distinct from others who traversed Hyrule or other parts of the world, Link was not an aimless drifter. He had an ambition that she could clearly see, even though she didn't understand the driving force behind it until reading his letter. Glancing at him again, his current sullen stature contrasted the confidence she detected in him since the day they met. At this moment he looked apprehensive, and it stilled her heart, a response she did not anticipate. It was this stillness of heart that quieted her perceived shortcomings that moments ago plagued her, and prevented her from reliving her fury over Link's prolonged absence.
He has only ever tried to do what is right, her heart whispered, filling her with the resolve she needed to steadily approach him.
Despite devoting countless hours to rehearsing this interaction, he found any words currently coming to his mind frustratingly inadequate. How could he convey the depths of his remorse when a mere apology felt so deficient, even insulting? He recognized regaining Malon's trust and rekindling their relationship would take time, but he wasn't sure that she would grant him that. And could he blame her? Not really. In her moment of vulnerability he forsook her, not without reason, but did that make it any better? Perhaps it provided some explanation, but there was no justification for the heartache she endured from his sheer oblivion.
Before Link knew it, he felt himself drawn into a soft embrace, completely displacing his thoughts. Glancing down, he noticed a familiar set of hands enveloping him with a tenderness far different from the reception of estrangement he was expecting. As he felt a cheek rest on his back, he froze. He could not remember the last time he was embraced so lovingly, and as he timidly turned to face the woman he had come to adore, Malon loosened her grip. Her embrace elevated his spirit more than he ever could have imagined so that as she drew back the sudden physical distance struck him like a frigid wind.
"Link…" she gently spoke, her voice wavering slightly. "I've missed you."
He was reminded of their many reunions throughout the years. Each occasion her eyes shone with a warmth and delight that compelled them to affectionately embrace followed by hours of joyful reminiscing. While the warmth in Malon's eyes was plainly visible, in place of her delight was a hint of somberness and something else he currently had difficulty discerning. Before he could ponder the matter further, he found himself distracted by how composed she was, further highlighting his apprehension.
"I…" he trailed as he met her gaze.
Her eyes reminded him of Zora's River, a distant memory to the shame he fostered. She was beautiful from the freckles that dusted her cheeks, her expression of concern and…he did not dare finish this thought. He was underserving of any kindness and forgiveness from her when she experienced such anguish at the hands of his carelessness. Malon patiently waited, meeting his gaze with a tenderness and compassion that encouraged him to continue. As he considered his words, he uneasily shifted and glanced at his boots before meeting her unwavering gaze again.
"Malon, I don't have the words to tell you how badly I mistreated you and our friendship," he finally stammered, his self-consciousness returning with a suddenness that overwhelmed him.
She favored him with a heartfelt smile, a quality he had grown to love about her as it emerged from deep within, alighting her eyes and resonating in her voice.
"I am so glad you are here," she replied in a cordial tone that, along with her smile, completely disarmed him. "Come, bring Epona to the barn. You must be exhausted."
The familiarity of Malon and the ranch consumed him. It was a familiarity that drew him to consistently return despite the fulfillment he derived from aiding other lands. A familiarity he had, until recently, falsely attributed more to the ranch and Hyrule itself instead of to those he had come to cherish. Epona, who had long since grown attuned to even subtle changes in his demeanor, was oblivious to his ruminating as she enthusiastically approached Malon and nuzzled her shoulder. Malon's lips bore the semblance of a smile as she affectionately stroked Epona's mane.
"Come on, sweet friend," she whispered to Epona, "I have your favorite in the barn."
Link rolled his eyes knowing that Epona would never want to leave now…but he did not want to either.
Admiring the clear night sky, Malon sat on the crate outside her home and absentmindedly twirled a strand of hair. The reunion with Link felt far different than she imagined. She and Link did not have any other exchanges at the barn, nor at dinner, and not even before he retired to his room. While this disheartened her a bit, she felt more taken aback by the feelings his presence stirred in her. Often visiting Lake Hylia after Link departed Hyrule, she would linger on the beach once her deliveries were complete and become lost in the tranquil, rhythmic flow of the water. It calmed her spirit and gave her a sense of stillness amidst the routine, often mundane, facets of her life. It reminded her of Link. Just as some people could catch the faint scent of apple pie and immediately be brought back to their mother's kitchen, stillness, and the peace that accompanied it, always served to elicit memories of Link.
While his gaze normally communicated this strength and stillness without so much as a word, since arriving at the ranch he wore an expression of remorse so deep it stirred her heart. His disregard for her at dinner while he idly chatted with her father did not feel like a slight but rather was telling of the angry reception he still anticipated. An anger he seemed to view as an emotional chasm between them. Prior to his return, she would have thought him right, but she was surprised to learn that his absence had unknowingly grown her heart in love and forgiveness. All she wanted to do was reassure him of that, but he had so much misplaced guilt she wasn't sure he would even believe her, let alone be prepared to receive such sentiments. The letter he drafted to her was indicative of that. So she resolved to wait, distracting herself with her evening chores.
As she completed her tasks and cleaned up, she changed into the only extravagant attire she owned- a wool skirt, the finest material a farmer's daughter could buy. It was a fabric meant for work and hardship. An outfit that, in her long nights spent thinking of Link and nursing her heartache, she embroidered the Triforce symbol along the hem in gold. Tucked into her skirt was a summer white blouse. She rarely if ever had the occasion to wear either of these pieces so that when she did, she felt cloaked in a poise that was otherwise foreign to her. She hoped that garbing herself in this attire would serve as an outward expression of expectancy to encourage things along with Link, but reminders of the regal dresses she glimpsed on the princess during her visit to the ranch resurfaced.
Stop this nonsense, she chastised herself.
Sighing, she stood and gently kicked a nearby pebble, listening as it skirted across the grass toward the corral. Intending to return indoors, she turned, startled to find herself gazing upon Link. He seemed equally taken aback, evidenced by the manner he uneasily shifted before strolling toward her. The sight of him stole her breath, and she was reminded again of the letter he composed. Surely the fact that he divulged everything to her in his letter and subsequently returned meant something. Her wildly fluttering heart that hadn't allowed itself to be grounded by doubt or reason dared to hope so.
Unbeknownst to Malon, Link had been gazing at her for several moments before she noticed him. He initially emerged from the guest quarters to commit everything about her to memory, having come to the conclusion that the only way this reunion could end is with her asking him to leave.
That is what's fair, he mused. I might as well spend as much time with her as I can before I never see her again.
However, the moment he caught sight of her as he exited the barn rendered him instantly awestruck. The moonlight coated her in an ethereal glow, accentuating her flawless ivory skin and causing her crimson hair to shine with a luster that only served to complement her sweet and genuine nature. Feeling his nerves reawakening, he was instantly glad that she remained too preoccupied to take notice of him at the moment. He couldn't afford for her to see the effect she was having on him when she would only be out of reach once they parted ways again. Resolving to make a hasty retreat to his room, he abruptly turned, finding that his knees protested his abrupt change in position by suddenly buckling. While he managed to catch himself in an awkward stumble, the subsequent rustle in the grass caused Malon to sharply swing around, her startled eyes widening as she took notice of him.
"Oh!" Her hand flew to her throat as she gasped, "Link, you startled me. I was just thinking about you."
Studying her, he found her eyes void of the animosity he was expecting. He had been so lost in constructing scenarios for this evening that her next question took him completely aback.
"Would you like to take a walk with me?"
Although this was an invitation she extended to him many times during his visits, his memories of such strolls consisted of the friendly breeze that ruffled the grass in steady waves, the horses that contentedly trotted in the pen, or the monotonously soothing song of the nocturnal critters. This time she was all he noticed, and everything else that used to draw his attention felt like a meaningless back-drop. Although they engaged in idle chitchat, he found himself captivated by the way her eyes glimmered enchantingly in the moonlight. Transfixed, it took him a moment to realize she ceased talking, and he couldn't help but notice her cheerful demeanor faltering as she reached into her pocket and produced a paper.
"Link, there is something I don't understand…" she spoke, apprehension lacing her voice despite her reassuring smile.
As she brought the paper closer, he quickly recognized it as the letter he penned before his departure, except now it appeared tattered, as if it had been crumbled and reassembled countless times. In that letter, he divulged his role in salvaging Hyrule, hoping she would view that as further confirmation as to why he needed to remain distant. Now that he returned it was only reasonable that she would be skeptical of such a claim when he provided no evidence to support it.
"Here," he said, hastily removing his gauntlet and revealing the Triforce emblem engraved on his hand. "I know it sounds crazy, but I promise you that everything I wrote is true!"
While her pensive silence as she considered her words was a quality he normally loved about her, now it served only to increase his disquietude. He couldn't tell if she remained silent due to doubt or other reasons he hadn't yet considered. As if sensing his apprehension building, she empathetically shook her head.
"No, it's not that," she paused, glancing thoughtfully at the Triforce of Courage. "I don't understand why you only felt you could share this with me when you weren't planning on returning."
Her remark took him aback, and for reasons he didn't understand his mind drifted to the memory of the Gossip Stone that revealed to him that she desired to be swept off her feet by a knight in shining armor. He was perplexed when he learned this, his childlike mind interpreting this revelation in a literal sense. Anytime the memory of this resurfaced as their friendship grew, he determined it must be in reference to the physical or even mental qualities that attracted her as she did not strike him as a swooning damsel who required rescue. Now he recognized it was none of these. Her knight was a warrior who would diligently guard and continuously fight for her heart, yet humble enough to lay down his emotional arms. This realization, combined with the hopeful gleam that appeared in her eyes, gave him the boldness to speak candidly.
"Malon, I need to tell you that-"
"That you're going to stay?" she interjected with a suddenness that surprised them both.
Link blinked, speechless. Surely she didn't mean what he thought she did.
"Please?" She replied, meeting his eyes.
The gaze she favored him with reminded him of the only occasion he ever witnessed Honey and Darling, a hopelessly besotted couple, apart. As he stumbled into their shop in Clock Town, Darling suddenly skirted out the door, explaining the games would not be held as he had business to attend to. Glancing at Honey, her eyes alit with a yearning that Link recognized would only settle once her beloved was back in her presence. It was the same expression he thought he observed momentarily flicker in Malon's eyes. While he was now convinced that he heard her correctly, his skepticism resurfaced. He knew she could only be asking him to stay because she required help on the farm. How could there be any other reason? The hard labor she bore in his absence was clearly visible on her hands, but only enhanced the qualities he loved the most about her: her perseverance, loyalty, and strength. If he could just stay as a ranch hand, it would be enough. Yet, his heart betrayed him.
"To be a ranch hand?" he questioned shakily.
Malon frowned and glanced away momentarily. "No, Link…to stand by me. To journey with me ahead."
Link could not stop himself. He reached for her hands, which she lovingly extended, a gesture that encouraged him to broach the question that plagued him.
"How could you feel that way after I abandoned you?" he dared.
Malon tenderly squeezed his hands, giving him the reassurance that perhaps they were destined to be more than just childhood friends.
"Because I love you," she whispered. "It does not matter what you have done. You are enough for me."
Her voice had always been melodious to him, conveying a depth and sincerity he imagined could soften even the most battle-hardened soldier. Her words now only added a harmony that made it the sweetest music to his ears. Gathering her in his arms, he drew her into an embrace that she was quick to return as she contentedly rested her cheek against his tunic. They remained like that for many moments in silence, until he felt her shift and glance up at him, a determined glint in her eyes he had never seen before. Placing his hand on her cheek, the blush that rose to her face was all the encouragement he needed. He closed the distance between them and their lips met with a love and tenderness that obliterated every thought. It was a kiss that stole the need for words, and for the first time since Link could remember, his spirit felt settled. A kiss like this was a redeeming moment, a promise of much more to come.
A/N: One thing I dislike in a lot of romantic LOZ fanfics is the way characters like Link, Zelda or Malon are casually thrust into a relationship without any recognition of the trials that would likely arise. I also don't like when Zelda and Malon are portrayed as fickle, lovestruck maidens who have no depth beyond their love for Link. With that in mind, I sought to realistically portray Link coming to understand his desire for a relationship and ultimately his love for Malon. Based on the direction of my story, I did not feel that could be accomplished in a believable manner without him leaving Hyrule and having some time to heal and reflect. So, while perhaps a more introspective romantic fic, I really wanted to explore more than I ever had before the reservations I imagine Link would have to entering a relationship and how I could see him overcoming those. I have not seen a Link/Malon fic that does this, although it is possible there are some out there that I've missed.
Anyway, looking over my completed work, I can scarcely believe I started this fic nine years ago. These last few years of my life have been filled with joys and sorrows, both of which I believe added greater depth to my writing that would have been lacking had I completed this fic back then. Thank you for reading this and I hope you enjoyed it! As always, please review or PM me any feedback or constructive criticism as it is very much appreciated.
Acknowledgements:
-My husband, who will probably never see this as he does not read fanfiction or play LOZ, but it felt wrong not to give him some acclaim as his faithful support and encouragement to keep up with practicing my writing is why I felt so inspired to start again after such a long lull.
-My sister for providing some help/feedback with this last chapter despite it being so long since she had anything to do with OOT that she had to be reminded who Malon was!
-Niki Bogwater for so much support and encouragement throughout this fic, but more importantly, your friendship.
-Ari for taking the time to read and review my work and for being a friendly sounding board.
