Chapter 26 Supplement - Hero of Twilight and Ilia
Summary: This describes what happened to the Hero of Twilight after the events of Chapter 25. It involves the relationship of Link and Ilia, so can be ignored by anyone with no interest in that. It is not part of the Mipha x Link narrative. During excavation around the area formerly occupied by Ordon Village, a journal was found believed to have belonged to the Hero of Twilight. These are some notes from a part of that journal.
These are notes from a journal kept by the Hero of Twilight
The Link from the future had just left, and beyond all hope, Midna was in his arms now.
He had missed Midna. After all their time together, the finality of her goodbye was sudden and unexpected. He knew she needed to return to the Twilight Realm, but he thought there would be a way to see her again. Instead, she had shattered the Mirror of Twilight. And with it, she had shattered his dreams. He had only just begun to know her in her natural form since most of their time together she had been under an evil spell, turned into an impish creature. Their time together had drawn them close and both had developed feelings for each other. But when she stood up and turned to face him after his final battle and he finally saw her for who she really was, he had stood there staring at her, speechless, in awe at her beauty. Then they had only a short time together as she and Zelda traveled with him to the Arbiter's Grounds. Midna and Zelda exchanged a few words and then Midna had shed a tear, started to tell him something, then thought better of it and said only "see you later." She looked at him with a sad smile as she faded away. After that he had stood there with Zelda, stunned, trying to understand what had just happened and why. Zelda had said a few words to him, but he couldn't recall any of them. Finally, it was time to go. There was nothing there for him anymore.
So, he began the long journey back home all alone. It was hard to accept that the shadow companion who had teased him so much and cared for him so much was no longer riding with him. He pondered what to do next. He needed to do something, but could he simply resume his life in Ordon Village herding goats? Not while he was still so grief-stricken over Midna. He needed to do something more challenging to get his mind off her, something that made use of the combat skills he had learned from one of his ancient predecessors. He planned to collect some of his belongings from home and then head off to whatever adventures he could find. To help him forget he would need to stay busy. Perhaps he could become a knight in Princess Zelda's service.
But then, finally arriving home from the Arbiter's Grounds in the evening, he found a person claiming to be from the future waiting in his house. And this person told him there was a way for him to be together with Midna again. Using Twilight Portals and Timeshift Stones, he had been able to return to the Twilight Realm. And now he was together with Midna, and she had told him she missed him too. They felt happy in each other's arms. Now he could get to know her as the person she truly was.
"I told you, little wolf, I would see you later," Midna laughed. "I drove a hard bargain with the people from the future to get you here. And now we are companions again."
He would always be her little wolf. So they began their lives together in the Twilight Realm.
Link grew to love the twilight. It was calm and peaceful there, as she had said it was. It had a gentle beauty that grew on him. When she wasn't busy with her royal duties, they would travel together, visiting locations beyond the Twilight Palace that also had a beauty all their own. The Twilight Realm was much like Hyrule in its springs and waterfalls. Of course, many plants and flowers could not survive here, but some ferns and ivy could as well as others he didn't recognize that must have adapted to the conditions.
The Twili people were kind and gracious to him. They had learned of his efforts to free them from the evil Zant and respected him for it. He still had difficulty communicating with them, for few of them spoke Hylian and he could not speak their tongue. He had been trying hard to learn their language, but the intonation was challenging. Midna would coax him through some language lessons, and then they would laugh together when he mispronounced things.
"As a last resort, you could always howl," she teased him. She had such kind eyes, he thought. He had gotten used to their deep red beauty and her gentle smile. He felt he might find peace and happiness here.
But after a couple of months, he began to notice a change in himself. His skin had turned pale by now, of course, the lack of sun taking its toll. But he didn't care about his skin color. However, more than skin appearance was beginning to affect him. He began to tire more easily. Sometimes Midna and he would have to cut short their walks together because of his fatigue.
At first, he and Midna believed tiredness was all it was. But rest did not improve his stamina, nor did varying his diet, and his condition worsened. Midna began to fear that the Twilight Realm itself was causing his weakness, that as a creature of the Light World he could not survive forever in the Twilight Realm. She kept hoping his condition would improve, but instead it worsened. Finally, one morning, she felt she had to express her fear to him.
"I know you do not want to hear this," said Midna. "But I fear you cannot survive here. We must face the fact that we are of two different worlds and can survive in each other's world only for a limited time."
"No, Midna," said Link. "I'll get better. I just need some time and rest."
But he was wrong. Rest did not help, and his condition deteriorated. Finally, after three months in the Twilight Realm, a day came when he was barely able to get up from the bed, and Midna had seen enough. They had to accept the inevitable. They could not be together as she and he both wished. Her instinct to destroy the Mirror had been the right one. But she could not let him die here. And she feared he may have already become too weak. She had made up her mind and sat next to him as he lay in bed.
"Link, much as I would wish it, you cannot stay here with me. I realize now that you cannot survive here. I had thought your former time here had made you special. But you are getting weaker with each day, and I cannot let that continue. I fear we must say farewell yet again. I will always remember the extra time given to us to be together. But now you must return to your world and live your life there. We still have the Timeshift Stone that was left here by the people from your future and it is set to a time when the mirror was still whole. We can use it to go back in time and transport you back to the Light World. When you leave the range of the stone you will be back in the present there. I want you to live your life there and be happy, not grieve over us. We will always have the memory of our time together here and in your world. Nothing can take that from us. But you are getting too weak. Come, before you are any weaker."
Link and Midna embraced. Then Midna helped him walk to where the Twilight Mirror had stood. She activated the Timeshift Stone and suddenly the Mirror was whole again. They passed through the Mirror and were back at the Arbiter's Grounds. Then she established a Twilight Portal from the Arbiter's Grounds to just outside Link's house and helped Link over to it.
"Farewell, Link. I pray you will recover quickly. And I will never forget you," said Midna.
She returned to near the Mirror and activated the portal. Link disappeared from her view. She waited for his transport to complete then deactivated the portal, returned to the Twilight Realm and restored the Timeshift Stone to the present. She was back home again and Link was gone. She shed a tear that had nothing to do with destroying a Mirror.
Link arrived through the Twilight Portal by the side of his house near Ordon Village. He saw the portal above his head disappear. It was evening, and he found himself lying on the grass. Surprisingly Epona was hitched in front of his house, and he heard her neigh and stamp her hoofs. He tried to get up, but he was too weak. He collapsed from the effort and drifted off into unconsciousness.
Ilia awoke at her home in Ordon Village the next morning and, as had been the case for the last three months now, she was feeling depressed. Each day since she had returned home she had been hoping for Link's return, but each day those hopes were gradually fading. Where had he gone?
The last time she saw him was at Kakariko Village. He had helped her recover her memory by showing her the horse call she had made for him, and she had told him not to worry about her anymore, she was fine and would be waiting for him when he returned. And he had smiled back at her as if to reassure her he understood.
But when would he return? She knew back then he had an important mission to complete. But as far as she knew he had successfully completed it. News from Castle Town was that Hyrule Castle was safe, no longer occupied by monsters. And Hyrule itself was safe. But where was Link? Had he gone off on another adventure without even saying goodbye? Or had something terrible happened to him? She hoped he was well. Sometimes she cried at night thinking about him. They had been friends since childhood and had grown over time to more than that, to boyfriend and girlfriend. She had hoped they could pick up where they left off when he returned. But would he ever return?
She told her father she was going out and left her house. It was early and the village was still quiet, many people only just getting up. She could hear the goats bleating from the pasture next to her house and some chickens wandering the village. She walked down the path from her home and through the village toward Link's house, a path she had taken every day she could. She had stopped by Link's house many times over the last three months keeping it clean and ready for his return. Sometimes she would even re-stock his pantry with fresh vegetables. Of course, she had also been taking good care of Epona for him. But she didn't understand why Link would leave Epona behind.
Ilia remembered that morning three months ago when she had walked to Link's house from the village. She had been hoping each day for Link's return. And then as his house came into view, her heart leaped. There was Epona in front of his house! He must have returned during the night, she thought. Link was home! She ran to his house in her excitement, and when she reached the front, called his name. She knew he liked to sleep in, but she was too excited not to wake him. No answer. She called again. Nothing. Then she climbed up the ladder and knocked on his door. Still, no response. She opened the door slowly, peeked inside, and called his name again. The house was empty. Where had he gone without his horse? She climbed back down the ladder and went over to Epona. She petted her mane and Epona neighed and gently shook her head. She had tended to Epona many times, and Epona knew her well.
"Where is your master, Epona? Why are you here all alone?" said Ilia.
Then she thought maybe he went to the Forest Spring. She ran almost all the way there in her excitement. But no, there was no one at the Spring. Perhaps he had gone to the village and she had missed him? She returned to Ordon Village and asked everyone if they had seen Link. But no one had. He must have ridden home last night on Epona, but where had he gone then and how? She had returned to Link's house and taken care of Epona. In those first few days after she found Epona she had hoped Link was somewhere nearby and would return soon. But soon had turned into three months now.
Each day she would feed Epona and take her to the Forest Spring and back to help keep her fit. But she always returned her to Link's house afterward so Epona would be there for him. And taking care of his house was another way of keeping her hopes alive that he would come home someday.
So, like so many other days, she started walking to Link's house. Another day to clean out any dust for him and imagine he would be home soon. It was starting out to be a beautiful day, mild with a gentle breeze that rustled the leaves. But as she approached Link's house something was wrong. Epona was acting up. She kept neighing and pulling at her hitch, shaking her head. What was wrong with her? She walked over to Epona and checked her for any injury. She looked fine. Then she tried petting and soothing her but she wouldn't calm down. She kept tugging at the rope holding her.
"Alright Epona," said Ilia, "let's see where you want to go."
She unhitched Epona and held her reigns. Epona immediately tugged and pulled her toward the side of Link's house. Then she saw what Epona was trying to tell her. Link lay collapsed motionless on the ground.
"Link!" she cried rushing over to him. And when she saw him her hands flew to her mouth as she cried out in shock. It was Link but it barely looked like him. He was as white as a ghost! Her heart was in her throat for an instant. She couldn't breathe. Was he...? But her worst fears passed as she noticed he was still breathing. He was alive. But what had happened? She cradled his head in her arm, and he was completely limp.
"Link, wake up," said Ilia as she rubbed his forehead.
Link opened his eyes. Then he squinted as if the light hurt them. But he did recognize her.
"Ilia, I, ...," said Link, then he closed his eyes again.
"Link, wake up! We need to get you home."
She helped him struggle to his feet, then she put her arm around him and walked him to the ladder that led into his house. It would be tricky climbing up the ladder together, but she helped him along, one rung at a time, sometimes stopping to rest. He finally made it inside his house and collapsed on the floor.
"Ilia, thank you, I, ...," said Link.
"Please, save your strength. I'm going to make you some soup now," said Ilia.
There were enough ingredients in the house for a nourishing pot of pumpkin soup. While she waited for the soup to cook, she went back over to Link as he lay on the floor. His eyes were closed, fluttering open every now and then. She felt like crying he looked so terrible, his complexion nothing like the healthy outdoor color he had always had in the past. What had happened to him? Had he seen something so horrible the shock or fright of it had caused this? But right now the important thing was to help him get his strength back. The soup was finally ready, and she brought a bowl over to where he lay.
"Try to sit up and lean against the wall here," said Ilia.
Link groaned and pulled himself up to where he could lean on the wall. Ilia put the bowl of soup on the floor and put one arm around him to steady him. Then she began feeding him the soup one slow spoonful at a time. It was slow going, but she was happy to see he was able to finish the whole bowl.
"Thank you," said Link weakly. "I think I will be alright now."
"No, you are still far from alright. You need help, and I will stay with you as long as you do," said Ilia. "And you need to get to bed now and rest."
She helped him over to his bed, and he collapsed again. It was taking all her effort to avoid crying, but she needed to hold herself together if she was going to help him. She sat next to him and watched him sleep until she heard Colin, Talon, and Malo outside. She got up and leaned out the doorway.
"Colin, tell my father Link is back, but he's very ill. I will be staying here taking care of him, and he should not worry about me," said Ilia.
"Link is back?" said Colin. "Where has he been all this time?"
"I don't know," said Ilia, "but he is not well. Can you also please bring some fish back? I will need to prepare his meals for now."
"Sure," said Colin. Wow, Link was finally back, he thought. He would have to spread the news. Colin, Talon, and Malo ran back to the village to do as she asked.
Link woke up after several hours of sleep, and Ilia fed him some more soup and some of the fish Colin had dropped off earlier and she had cooked. She hoped the nourishment was helping. As the sun began to set Link started shivering, as if something was bothering him.
"Link, it's okay, I'm here," said Ilia.
He stopped shuddering, then looked over at Ilia. He wore a pained expression as if something was bothering him. Then his eyes closed and he lapsed back into sleep. She felt his forehead, and his temperature seemed normal. He had to get better, she thought. He just had to, and she wouldn't leave his side until he did. She finally fell asleep on the floor leaning on the side of Link's bed.
"Ilia?" said Link.
It was morning, and Link had just awoken. Ilia rubbed her eyes then jumped up remembering where she was.
"How do you feel?"
"Weak, but better than yesterday. Did you stay here all night with me? Won't your father be worried?" said Link.
Ilia blushed.
"I..., you needed someone to take care of you. I sent word to my father that I would be here. I didn't mind," said Ilia.
"Thank you," said Link. "I'm glad you're here. But I ..."
"How about some more soup," said Ilia cutting him off. She ran to the pot and relit the fire to warm it up.
"That would be nice," said Link. "I'm feeling a bit stronger now. Perhaps I could get up?"
"No, just sit up for now," said Ilia. "The soup is almost ready."
She brought over the bowl of soup and a spoon.
"I can feed myself now thanks," said Link taking the bowl. "Have you eaten anything yourself?"
"I've been too busy," said Ilia. "I'll have some soup with you."
She helped herself to a bowl, and they ate together. Link was quiet the whole time, whether from weakness or something on his mind Ilia couldn't tell. But she noticed he had trouble looking her in the eyes. He would look at her then lower his eyes. So something was bothering him. They finished the soup and then Ilia spoke up.
"I need to look after Epona for a minute, will you be alright? I'll be just outside. Call me if you need anything," said Ilia.
Link nodded as Ilia went out, then she fed and watered Epona.
"I think your master will be alright now, Epona," said Ilia as she petted her. Then she went back into Link's house and found him standing up.
"I think I need to be outside and get some sun," said Link.
She helped him to the ladder, and he was healthy enough now to climb down on his own, though slowly. When he got outside, he walked over to Epona and pet her neck.
"Hello, girl, I missed you," said Link. Epona neighed and nuzzled against his hand.
"But, Link, now that you are well enough to talk, can you tell me what happened to you and where you have been all this time? I've been so worried about you. And why are you so pale?"
Link looked at her then looked away. He seemed reluctant to answer. Finally, he turned back to her.
"I'm sorry I caused you to worry. There's no easy way to tell you this. I was far away with someone I cared about. She and I developed a special relationship during my mission and I wanted to be with her. I am ashamed to say I forgot about everyone here. You've been so kind to me and I don't deserve it. All I can do is thank you."
She felt she had been stabbed in the heart! That hurt. Ilia had always thought she was the one Link cared about. And all the time she had been dreaming of his return, worrying about him, and lovingly caring for his house he had been with someone else. She was having difficulty breathing. Did he realize how much he had just hurt her?
But, thinking about it, maybe she should have expected something like this. Link was no longer the local boy herding goats but a hero, someone who traveled to exciting places and met famous people like rulers and princesses. How could a simple village girl compete with that? But they had been so close for so long! It was so sad to lose that. She turned away to calm her breathing and wipe her eyes. But he needed her help right now, and even if only as a friend she would help him. Still, she couldn't just drop the subject. She needed to know more.
"Why are you not still with her and how did you get here? And what caused you to become so pale?" said Ilia.
"Her world is without daylight. We came to realize we could not be together," said Link. "I could not survive in her world, and she could not survive in ours. We said our goodbyes. Her people have powerful magic. They had a way of getting me here."
"You will never see her again?" said Ilia.
"No, we can never be together again," said Link. "And she wanted me to move on. I know I need to and I hope I can. I would understand if you no longer wished to help me. You've already done more for me than I deserve."
"You hurt me, Link. More deeply than you may realize. I am trying hard not to break down in tears this very minute. But we have always been friends and if you remember what kind of person I am you would realize I would even help a Zora child stranger I found. Perhaps we can walk together," said Ilia thinking a change in the subject would be good. And she needed some fresh air. "Do you feel strong enough to walk to the Forest Spring?"
"I'm sorry Ilia. Thank you. I can try, but I may need to rest now and then on the way," said Link.
So, they walked down the road together and every now and then Link needed to stop to catch his breath. The sunlight seemed to be helping though Link was squinting most of the time. Ilia could see a trace of color returning to his cheeks. When they reached the spring, they sat down together.
"I remember spending time with you here," said Link.
"Yes, we often came here, usually with Epona," said Ilia. "It's a lovely and peaceful place. I liked it here."
Then Link remembered what else had happened here.
"And this is where we were attacked," said Link. He remembered this was where his adventure had all started.
"Yes," said Ilia. "But let's not talk of that. I brought some fruit for lunch."
Ilia had brought some fruit from Link's house, and they shared a light lunch together. Link looked at the spring and the clean, pure water cascading into the pool from the waterfalls. This was a happy place. But they were both quiet now. He didn't know what to say. What could he say now? And what would she want to say to him now?
"I think we should head home," said Ilia finally. She helped him to his feet, and they began walking home. It was slow going, Link having to rest again every so often. It was afternoon when they arrived at his house.
"Let's get you back to bed," said Ilia.
Ilia helped him up to bed then she headed to Ordon Village for some groceries bringing Epona along to help carry things. But before she got there the feelings and tears she had been fighting to control all day broke through. She buried her face in her arms and cried inconsolably, leaning against Epona. She never dreamed this would happen. Her sobs came with deep breaths. She couldn't help herself. Epona turned her head to look at her and made a gentle sound, almost like she was trying to comfort her. But nobody could. This hurt so much! Slowly she cried herself out. She wiped her eyes and brushed the lingering tears from her cheeks. She needed to get food, but first, she stopped to see her father.
"Father, Link is still not well," said Ilia. "He needs me, and I will be there with him again tonight."
"Does he need a doctor?" said Mayor Bo. "What happened to him? And are you alright? You've been crying. Is it over Link?"
"I think he is coming around," said Ilia. "He spent time someplace that hurt him. He just needs someone to help him until he is strong enough to be on his own. And Link is the cause of my tears but not in the way you think. I need to be going now. Goodnight father."
Then she left to get groceries and returned with Epona to Link's house. When she arrived she found some of the children there practicing combat moves. She imagined now that news of Link's return had reached everyone they must be hoping he would come out and play with them.
"Please be quiet," said Ilia. "Link may be sleeping."
"Then why do you need to be here?" said Malo.
"He is still very weak. I need to help him get food when he wakes up. It's getting late, you should be going home."
Ilia quietly put away the groceries. Link was fast asleep on his bed, and she stood next to him watching him sleep. She would help him as long as he needed help, she thought. Then he would be on his own. She found a comfortable place to rest and soon fell asleep.
Next morning they were walking together to the spring, this time with Epona when Link spoke up.
"Ilia, thank you for all you've done for me," said Link. "But I think I can manage now. You can go home and be comfortable. But I would like to see you sometimes. That is if you are still willing to see me. I can understand if you wouldn't."
"We'll see," said Ilia. "I don't know right now. I promised myself I would stay with you to help you get well, and it sounds like you are now. But promise me you will stay here for now and not ride off. I need your word on that or I will take Epona home with me. Though you may think so, you haven't fully recovered."
"I promise," said Link. "I have no desire to ride off anywhere."
They resumed their walk to the spring and sat down. Being quiet only made her feel worse so she tried to think of something to say.
"So, you met Princess Zelda," said Ilia. "What is she like?"
"A very kind and caring person, but strong as well. She was willing to sacrifice her life to save the land she loves," said Link. "I didn't really get to know her very well though."
"Do you like talking about these things, or would you rather not?" said Ilia.
"I don't mind if you are really interested," said Link. "But sometimes it brings back memories I am trying to forget."
"Then maybe it would be better for you if we talk of other things," said Ilia.
"Alright," said Link. "But what about you, Ilia, what do you like to do?"
"I used to like spending time with you," said Ilia. "And taking care of Epona. Do you still have the horse call I made for you?"
"Of course," said Link reaching into his pocket and pulling it out. "I have it right here. I used it many times on my travels, and it was quite handy."
After a while, they decided to head back. When they got to Link's house Ilia stopped to speak with him.
"I guess you can manage on your own now and don't need me here," said Ilia. "But you're still not fully recovered so don't push yourself. And remember your promise."
"Ilia, I ..." said Link. But Ilia cut him off.
"Please don't say anything, Link. I need to go now."
And with that, she left to go home leaving Link with Epona. He tied Epona to the hitch outside his house and went inside. Then it was his turn to cry.
So, time marched on. Each day he would take Epona out for a ride, sometimes up to Faron Woods and, as he felt better, even beyond to Hyrule Field. He sometimes played with the children when they came by his house. And he had to go into the village now and then for food or supplies. He had even started feeling well enough to help herd goats now and then. It was a good exercise for him and Epona. Whenever he went to the village he would stop at the mayor's house. Sometimes no one would answer the door when he knocked. Other times Mayor Bo would answer and tell him Ilia wasn't able to see him. So then he told the mayor to please just say hello to her for him. Clearly, she didn't want to see him. And who could blame her? This went on for a couple of months.
But finally there was one time he came to her house and Ilia answered the door. He was so surprised he didn't know what to say at first.
"Yes?" said Ilia.
"Ilia, how are you?"
"I'm well, and you?" said Ilia.
"Much better, thanks."
"Did you come to see my father? He's out right now. Or did you want something?"
"I, um, I was hoping you and I could talk," said Link.
"We are talking," said Ilia.
She was making this hard for him but he deserved it.
"I mean could you take a walk with me and talk?" said Link.
"What would we talk about?" said Ilia.
He took a deep breath. How could he answer that?
"I don't know," said Link. "I just miss talking with you."
"I'm sorry, maybe some other time. Take care of yourself," said Ilia as she closed the door.
So he rode Epona back home, more depressed than ever. It was a week later that Colin dropped by his house to see how he was.
"By the way are you going to Ilia's party next week? She turns seventeen and her dad is throwing a party for her. I was hoping you might have a good idea for a present I could get her," said Colin.
"No, I didn't know," said Link. "I guess I'm not invited. And I'm not very good at picking gifts. You should probably ask Beth."
"Alright," said Colin. "See you around." He headed back to the village.
Ilia's birthday was next week, he thought. He needed to get her something, even if she threw it away. He would head to Castle Town tomorrow morning. So, the next morning he and Epona were on their way to Castle Town. When he arrived he thought he should meet with Telma. She might be able to give him some advice.
Hello, Link!" said Telma when she saw him enter. "What brings you here?"
"Telma, good to see you! I'm looking for some advice. Ilia turns seventeen next week and I want to get her something nice," said Link. "I'm hoping you might help."
"Alright, let's talk about ideas. And I promise I'll get you the best price if the merchant wants to ever set foot in my bar again!" said Telma.
"Telma, I need to tell you something else first and then ask your advice," said Link. "It wasn't just about the gift I could use your help. At some point, I became close with Midna, the princess of the Twilight Realm. I forgot about Ilia and everyone else. But it turned out Midna and I could not be together. I grew deathly ill and we parted company. I have been back here now for a while and feel much better, thanks to Ilia's care of me at the beginning. But I am sure Ilia can never forgive me for my betrayal of her, and I don't blame her. I know I hurt her. But I would still like to get her something nice, I just don't think my gift can be too romantic."
"I see," said Telma. "Well, that is truly a shame. That girl really cared for you and had a heart of pure gold. I don't think you will ever find another like her. I don't mean to make you feel worse, but that's just how it is. How do you feel about things?"
"How do I feel about things?" said Link "I wish I could undo the hurt I've caused Ilia but I can't. I agree with you, I threw away the love of someone special, probably the kindest most caring person I have ever known. But I fell in love with someone special too who also had feelings for me. No matter what I did someone would end up being hurt, and that includes me, at least twice now. I followed my heart at the time and it led me over a cliff. So I don't know how to answer your question. At the time I chose Midna, and it didn't work out through no fault of ours. Had we known that we could never be together obviously we would not have tried. But we didn't know. And even if Ilia would someday take me back somehow I'm sure she would always feel like she was my second choice. I don't think she could ever be happy that way."
"Well, I think you should get her something nice and don't worry about whether it is romantic or not," said Telma. "It's up to her if she likes it or not. You did your best."
Telma couldn't leave the bar but she invited some merchants to come here and bring their merchandise with them, explaining what they were looking for. After looking over everything they settled on a simple silver necklace with an attractive emerald pendant. Telma said the green gem would match Ilia's eyes. Link paid for the necklace and had it wrapped.
"That's a very nice gift, hon," said Telma. "Not too showy but clean and elegant looking. I think she'll like it."
He realized time was starting to heal the wound of losing Midna. He still thought of Midna sometimes, especially at sunset. Maybe he always would. But being back at Ordon was helping him to move on, as Midna had wished him to. Ilia was someone special, and she had been willing to care for him when he needed help even after what had happened. He would always be grateful to her for that.
So, his wound was healing. But what of her wound, the one he had caused? After all that had happened, he doubted things between them could ever be as they were before. He had hurt her, doubtless worse than Midna had hurt him at the Mirror. It was probably unforgivable. Maybe it was best when the time was right that he leave Ordon Village and let time heal both of their wounds.
The morning of Ilia's birthday came, and Link walked to the village, stopping at the mayor's house where Ilia lived. He knocked on the door, and the mayor answered.
"Link, good morning," said Mayor Bo. "I imagine you're here to see Ilia?"
But Ilia had already heard him and came to the door.
"Happy birthday," said Link. "Do you have time for a short walk?"
Ilia thought for a minute.
"Yes, alright," said Ilia. "Bye father."
Ilia and Link walked through the village and talked about what they had been doing. Link told of his riding. And Ilia told him how Malo had fallen into the water when he hooked a fish. They both laughed picturing that. He looked at her as they walked. She had such soft, pretty green eyes, he thought. And she looked beautiful, especially when she laughed or smiled or blinked her eyes with that cute look she sometimes had. He felt his loss even keener now.
"It's good to hear you laugh," said Link. "Thank you for giving me a chance to talk with you."
"I miss talking to you, too," said Ilia. "Um, Link, I know this is short notice but I'm having a small party tonight. Would you like to come?"
He jumped at the chance.
"Of course, I'd love to," he said.
When they reached Link's house, he asked her to wait a moment. He went in and got the necklace.
"I hope you don't mind but I got you something. I hope you like it and you'll accept it. Happy birthday!"
He handed her a small package which she unwrapped and then saw the necklace. She gasped.
"This is beautiful! said Ilia. "I do like it. But where did you get something so nice?"
"That's my secret," said Link. "But I'm glad you like it."
The party itself was small but fun. He noticed Ilia got some questions from her friends about the necklace she had on, and then some grins and stares at Link. He didn't remember much, but she thanked him again when he left to go home.
"Thank you for the beautiful necklace and for coming to my party," said Ilia.
"Thank you for having me. I'm glad you like the necklace," said Link. "And happy birthday. Goodnight."
The next day he returned to the village and called for Ilia. She agreed to walk with him to the spring. He needed to tell her how he felt and find out how she felt. Depending on that he would decide if he could stay here or needed to travel. He had certainly made a mess of his life, he thought, managing to lose both people who had feelings for him. They picked up Epona on the way. When they got to the spring they sat down and Link said he needed to talk with her. Epona was nearby at the edge of the spring lapping water every so often.
"I don't know if anything I can say will change how you feel about me," said Link. "Or if you'll even believe me. I know I hurt you and I'm sorry. But in the time I've been back I realize more clearly than ever that I belong with you. I made a mistake. I can't be happy without you."
"I believe you," said Ilia. "But I don't know how I can be with you always knowing I'm your second choice."
"I can't change what happened," said Link. "But when it comes to love you were my first choice and you're my last choice. That's all I can give you. In my life it's all I have to give. I love you. But if you cannot forgive me I understand. I just needed you to know."
And just then Epona neighed and shook her head.
Ilia burst out laughing.
"So, even Epona is in your side?" said Ilia. "Promise me you'll never hurt me again."
"I promise with all my heart," said Link.
She leaned over and they kissed. Then he held her close and they kissed again. His eyes welled up with tears.
"Is that a good enough answer?" said Ilia. And she gave him that cute smile and wide open eyes look that melted him.
"The answer of my dreams," said Link.
And Epona neighed again and reared up on her hind legs as if she had read the moment. Maybe she had.