"My father always said it was better not to be vain, but I think even he might have some words regarding this particular outfit," Zelda commented wryly, tugging at the heavy garment. "Even the ceremonial garb I wore in the castle wasn't as heavy as this."

"Granted, but did you have to worry about your skin and hair catching fire while wearing those?" Link pointed out.

Zelda sighed. "Very well."

The morning had begun rather peacefully, with Link preparing a simple breakfast for them while Zelda assisted in making a pot of hot coffee. The meal was eaten slowly with quiet conversation passing between the couple. The princess grimaced when she got dressed, prompting the complaint about the weight of the garments.

"Can you still draw a bow?" Link asked, raising an eyebrow at her.

She shot him a look, lifting the bow from the pack on her back and drawing it easily. "Yes. While it does slow my movements, it doesn't fully hinder them."

"Good."

"Do we have enough ice arrows?" Zelda asked, unable to see her quiver.

"We have five currently. I think it would be wise to stop by Tarrey Town on our way up to obtain more. Fyson always has a good selection of arrows at a reasonable price," Link pointed out.

"If that's the case, may I please change into something more comfortable until we're ready to go up the mountain?" Zelda requested, hope strong in her voice.

Link turned and wrapped her in a hug. "As much as I would love to let you, I think it's wise for you to wear the flame armor to get used to the weight. You can leave the helmet in your bag though," he whispered in her ear.

She heaved another sigh but didn't argue. "They're going to mock my outfit," she mumbled.

"Not at all. They've seen me in any number of outfits from the different trips I've taken across Hyrule. Hudson has even seen me dressed in the Gerudo outfit," Link pointed out, pulling back so she could see his embarrassed face. "You'll be perfectly fine."

Zelda stifled a giggle at the thought of Link addressing the Hylian construction worker while dressed as a woman. She failed miserably.

"Good. I got you to chuckle. Let's go." Link grinned and slid an arm around her waist. He had a light pack on his back, with the Master Sword strapped on his left hip for easy access. He too wore flame armor, with his mask tucked into the bag alongside hers. The Sheikah Slate was in his hand and he chose the Dah Hesho shrine in Akkala.

"What's Tarrey Town like?" Zelda asked, as the runes wrapped around them, teleporting them to the travel gate on the shrine.

Link didn't respond until they were safely standing on the platform of the blue-glowing shrine. "You can almost see it from here. You remember the wooden houses on the path to my home in Hateno?"

"The model homes that Bolson and Karson live in? Yes, I remember those," Zelda affirmed.

"That's what Hudson has built here for the entirety of Tarrey Town. I... might have supplied him with the wood he needed to build it, as well as helping bring together people that would help the town thrive," Link admitted.

Zelda's eyes were huge as she processed that. "I'm not surprised," she said slowly. "He asked for your help, so you did your best. Just like you've always done."

His cheeks flushed at the compliment. "Yes. Exactly."

"Well, let's go see this town that you've helped build." Her arm didn't leave where it was looped through his elbow, and she smiled lovingly at him.

"We'll take a look from here, and then you've got a choice: an hour long walk around to the peninsula, or a mere couple minutes using the paraglider," Link offered, guiding her towards the edge of the cliff.

Zelda let out a soft gasp of wonder as she looked outward, and for good reason. To the far north, she could catch a glimpse of a light wisp of smoke from the fire at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab atop a mountain. Halfway down the side was the familiar spite of a stable. Where the hill ended, a forested plateau bordered the edge of a sizeable lake. In the center of the lake was the peninsula Link had referenced, connected to the mainland where they currently stood by a small strip of land. The cliff side dropped off sharply from their location, but curved gently around in a semi-circle that bordered the remainder of the lake.

A lower plateau sloped up to join the rest on the right side, and Zelda thought she glimpsed something reflective sparkle from the middle. The center of the peninsula caught her attention, and her eyes went back to linger over it. A small town was nestled in a circular shape around a tiny pool of glistening water. She counted no more than two dozen buildings but the size didn't matter. The setup looked warm and inviting.

Link watched her face as she got a full view of everything, allowing her to silently drink in the beauty of the Akkala region.

"It's breathtaking," she breathed.

"It is. Breathtaking," he agreed, his blue eyes never leaving her face.

She finally recognized he'd been staring at her and blushed. "What were our choices again?"

"Glider straight down there, or an hour's walk around. If I'm in a hurry, I usually take the glider. But it's your decision," he explained again.

"If we're in no hurry, let's walk," Zelda chose without hesitation. "You can tell me a bit more about the town and the people along the way."

Link smiled, guiding her to the right across the grassy plain. As they walked, he explained all about the interactions he had with Hudson, the middle-aged Hylian construction worker who had set out to build a new town entirely from scratch.

He touched on the traveling he did, from collecting countless bundles of wood to visiting the various regions in search of the type of people Hudson recommended.

Zelda's brow furrowed when she learned of their town's strange naming requirements, but she didn't dwell on it for very long, asking about how the rock was cleared. She was so distracted she didn't even think twice about the heavy garments she wore.

"I've been to the Southern Mine on Death Mountain before," Link explained. "I found two Goron brothers, whose names fit, who were looking for a new adventure in life."

"So, have you seen the Talus we're supposed to face?" Zelda questioned.

"Yes. Matter of fact, I… chose to avoid it," Link admitted sheepishly. "Taluses are not a favorite enemy. Add one that throws lava boulders? I didn't feel like dying."

"I don't blame you," she acknowledged with a grin. "So, there's Gorons, the Rito we'll be buying the arrows from, a Hylian, and did you say a Gerudo?"

"Yes. Hudson's wife, Rhondson. She's a seamstress like Claree. She's a bit wary of strangers but she warms up quickly," Link commented. "Oh, and a Zora. Kapson was a priest for many years in Zora's Domain. He came to Tarrey Town to perform Hudson and Rhondson's wedding. He now runs the inn there."

Zelda's mouth fell open. "How does he survive being out of the water for so long?"

Link stopped in his tracks, looking at her with an amazed look on his face. "That's an excellent question. I never thought about that."

She giggled. "Maybe he swims in the lake below the town?"

"That would make sense," Link mused, and he leaned over to kiss her cheek. "Your wisdom never ceases to amaze me."

"Link? What's that?" She pointed down to their left to a gaudy golden pool seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

"That's a Great Fairy Fountain. She, and her sisters at the other fountains can help magically enhance clothing, as long as you've got the materials." Link didn't seem keen on explaining further.

"You're not fond of visiting them, are you?" Zelda picked up on his hesitation. "Are they as lecherous as the stories of old portray them?"

"Yes," he said quickly. "The first one I went to openly said she wanted to keep me. If I wasn't the 'reincarnation of the Hero', she probably would have." He blanched at the notion.

Zelda leaned in closer. "Next time you visit, I shall be with you, and I'll have words for her if she pulls anything. If any of them do."

Link visibly relaxed at that. "Thank you. But enough about that. Princess, allow me to be the first to welcome you to Tarrey Town." He motioned at the large archway in front of them that acted as the entrance to the tiny town.

Zelda breathed out a sigh as they walked into the town. The morning was pleasant and the atmosphere welcoming. In front of the second building on the circle, a couple stood in a booth style area, conversing pleasantly with each other.

The man caught sight of Link and turned, waving at him. "Link! So glad to have you visiting us again!"

Link offered a strong handshake to the short, heavyset Hylian with dark hair and a beard to match. "How have things been since the last time I was here?"

Hudson beamed. "Going great! We've had more families move in, and our own family is growing. Rhondson is pregnant!"

"Allow us to offer our deepest congratulations," Zelda smiled warmly at the couple.

"And who might you be?" Hudson asked bluntly, though not unkindly.

"This is Zelda, Princess of Hyrule," Link introduced her.

Zelda ducked her head respectfully, foregoing a curtsy in the heavy flame armor.

The redheaded Gerudo woman eyed her, her gaze softening. "Thank you," she stated simply.

"You come to do some shopping, maybe stay awhile?" Hudson hoped.

"Afraid this isn't a leisurely trip this time," Link responded. "We need some ice arrows from Fyson before we head up to Death Mountain."

"You've already freed the Divine Beasts and defeated Ganon. What more is there for you to do?" Rhondson asked, her hand rubbing gentle circles over the subtle swell of her stomach.

"There's still several tasks we need to finish to bring peace to Hyrule," Link explained. "Specifically there's an Igneo Talus on the road up to Goron City."

Hudson let out a low whistle. "Better make sure you got a full stock of ice arrows then. Good luck to you. Hope you can stay longer on your next visit out here."

Link shot Zelda a quick glance. "That's the hope."

She returned a puzzled expression, not picking up whatever subtle hint he was trying to make.

Rhondson smiled for the first time since seeing them. "You'll have to come to me for your next outfit, Princess. As… nice as that armor is, I'm sure you'd prefer to wear something a bit more flattering."

Zelda glanced down at her outfit self-consciously. "It's not my preferred look," she admitted.

Link saw the two women conversing and took the opportunity to step away, disappearing into a nearby building without a word.

"I've been making some new maternity outfits for myself. I haven't had much else to work with recently except that and some basic clothes for the baby. I hope you'll give it some consideration at least." The redhead gestured to the snug dress that hugged her figure, highlighting the slight bump she had. "As you can see, I've got a few months before the baby comes."

Zelda gave a slightly awkward smile. "I'll definitely keep it in mind. Thank you," she said sincerely. The woman was definitely more pleasant to converse with than Claree.

"Who have you been getting clothing from, if you don't mind me asking?" Rhondson asked, touching the hem of the flame-resistant tunic the princess wore.

"A seamstress in Kakariko Village. Her name is Claree. She's done some decent handiwork for me, though I'm rather unsure about this piece myself," Zelda admitted.

"It's functional, but not as pretty as she could have made it. Pity," the redhead commented.

Zelda blushed. "I didn't know of any other seamstresses… and since Kakariko was the first place we went after defeating Ganon…" she trailed off, feeling guilty.

"It's not your fault. You needed clothes, and she was convenient. But don't think she's the only one you have to buy your clothing from," the Gerudo woman pointed out. "It would be a pleasure to make clothing for you."

Hudson chose that moment to pipe up. "Heh. Maybe my wife can even make your wedding dress. She makes gorgeous outfits!"

The flush on Zelda's face deepened. "W-well, I hadn't really thought about that," she blurted, flustered at the implication.

"Oh, come now. Every young woman has considered what she wants to wear when she gets to be a bride," Rhondson argued with a knowing smile. "And anyone can see that you and Link are obviously in love."

Zelda was speechless. She stood frozen, unsure how to react to being so easily read and understood. Link chose that moment to return, taking the steps down from the building in a single leap and jogging back over to the trio. His keen eyes went from Zelda's face to the knowing grins he was getting from the married couple.

"...I missed something, didn't I?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Not at all," Hudson smirked. "Rhondson just gave Zelda something to think about for the future."

Zelda swallowed hard and nodded quickly. "Thank you again," she said with a slight bob of a bow.

"Anytime," the seamstress replied.

"Let's get those arrows that we needed," Link prompted, offering a hand to Zelda, which the blonde graciously took.

"But, isn't that what you were just doing?" Zelda asked, perplexed.

"No. I had something else that I needed to take care of. Nothing to be concerned about," Link said nonchalantly.

The princess wasn't convinced, but didn't push the issue. Now that they were close, she could see the water was a small pond, and in the center was a statue of the Goddess Hylia with a narrow pier in front of it, allowing people to draw near for worship. It was, in her opinion, the perfect focal point for the center of the town. On the far side, a small Goron (if there was such a thing) sat behind a table, with rare gems for sale. To his left was a merchant's stand manned by the Rito she assumed to be Fyson. The variety he carried was vast, and Zelda found herself smiling at the now-familiar noble attitude of the birdfolk.

"Come to shop my wares again, have you? You can find no greater selection in all of Akkala," Fyson boasted, gesturing with a wing at his items for sale.

"Which is exactly why we're here," Link agreed. "We need ice arrows, please. At least twenty."

"You're in luck. I just resupplied my stock of those earlier in the week. Had you been a few days sooner, you might not have been so fortunate," the Rito sniffed proudly. "Will that be all for you this time?"

"Let's get another ten regular arrows too," the Champion decided. "Can't be too careful."
"Indeed. Forgive my lack of manners, but who is your lovely companion?" Fyson asked. "In your many visits, I've never seen you with a young woman. I thought you were disinclined towards them."

"This is Zelda, princess of Hyrule," Link introduced again, ignoring the obvious slight against him."

"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Princess," Fyson bowed deeply. "I do hope that your time in Tarrey Town will be pleasant. Feel free to come by any time. It would be an honor to serve you in whatever capacity you desire."

Zelda dipped her head graciously. "Thank you, Fyson. I appreciate your kindness."

"If you'll excuse me…" The Rito's attention went back to the Champion. "That'll be…"

Zelda wandered away while Link handled the haggling and transaction. A playful dog dashed up to her, shoving it's wet nose into her hand in demand for attention. The princess giggled softly, kneeling to rub the hound's ears. A memory of Daruk's reaction to dogs gave her pause, and she shook her head, chuckling at the amusing thought.

"Whoa! You're pretty!" A little girl ran up beside the dog, skidding to a stop when she saw Zelda petting the happy pooch. "Are you a princess? Mommy says the princess has pretty blonde hair like yours."

Zelda laughed. "Your mom is wise. I am indeed the princess. But what's your name?"

The girl's eyes got huge. "YOU'RE THE PRINCESS?! MOMMY! THE PRINCESS IS HERE!" She yelled as loudly as she could, causing the dog to whine and paw at his nose from the sheer volume.

"Hunnie! What have I told you about shouting? It's not polite for a young lady." The exasperated voice came from the girl's mother, who stepped outside her door with broom in hand. "Now, try again, what did you-" Her voice stopped abruptly when she saw the short blonde hair and pointed ears of the Hylian woman young kneeling beside the dog and her daughter. The broom fell from her hands with a clatter. "Sweet Goddess Hylia… it's the princess," she breathed.

Zelda straightened, brushing the dust off the heavy pants she wore. "Pleasure to meet you, ma'am. I apologize if I startled you."

"No, no. I should be apologizing. I'm Ruli, and you've just met my daughter Hunnie. It's truly an honor to meet you. When Hudson said the Calamity was defeated… I had a feeling that we might be seeing you at some point, But I never expected it today." The brunette was flustered, her hand shaking as she picked up her broom.

Hunnie giggled and scampered off after the dog who'd raced off chasing a squirrel, bored already with the adult conversation.

"It's just another day of the week, and another brief stop for us," Zelda replied gently. "We're not here for long. Just for a few short minutes while Link pays for the ice arrows we need before we go to Death Mountain."

The woman shuddered. "Do be careful up there. I've heard stories of people who were unprepared burning to death. I hate to imagine that happening to you or the Champion."

"We've prepared with our clothing," Zelda assured her, gesturing to her outfit. "And the ice arrows will aid us as well. But I do appreciate your concern for us."

Link walked over, holding the bundles of arrows he'd just purchased. "Ah, I see you've met Ruli and Hunnie. I helped make some monster cake that had Hunnie feeling better when she had a sick stomach."

"Did you say… monster cake?" Zelda inquired, not sure whether to gag or be impressed.

Ruli sighed. "Yes. Hunnie is rather obsessed with the delicacy. If you can call it that. Personally, I want nothing to do with the stuff. The smell alone was rather nauseating."

Link shrugged. "Long as someone likes it, that's what matters."

"True," the mother acknowledged. "Don't let me keep you. If you're heading to Death Mountain, then you have more important things than running your mouth with me all day. May the Goddess protect you both." With that blessing spoken over them, she returned to her sweeping, clearing off her porch.

"Thank you," Link replied for them before turning his attention to Zelda. "Turn around please, so I can put the arrows in the quiver."

"Ice arrows are closest to my reach, correct?" Zelda confirmed. "Just so we're ready whenever we may encounter a fire enemy."

Link snorted. "It's Death Mountain. They're all fire enemies. Mostly Lizalfos along the paths."

The princess made a face he couldn't see. The forked-tongued lizard monsters were hardly pleasant to interact with as a whole. Add in fire or ice breath, and they became even less so. "Are we able to travel directly to Goron City?" she asked by way of changing the subject.

"Yes. There's a shrine near the top of the city. It's also close to where we'll find Bludo, the elder. We'll need to talk to him. Don't let his gruffness get to you," Link warned. "His back causes him pain, and it makes him short-tempered."

She grimaced. "Pain is enough to make most people short-tempered. You had your moments too."

Link had the decency to look chagrined. "Sorry about that, love."

"I'm not holding it against you," Zelda reassured him, kissing him on the cheek. "Your back has healed up quite nicely. I'm glad to see you mostly out of pain."

"Me too," he admitted. "Glad to not be so stiff or sore." He pulled out the Sheikah Slate along with the two helmets. "Time to go."

She fought the urge to groan as she slipped the awkward headgear over her hair. "I'm prepared now. At least, as prepared as I shall be for this."

He leaned over, pressing his forehead against the helmet. "You look beautiful regardless of how you feel about your appearance. Don't stress yourself over it."

She blinked slowly, her eyes and mouth the only things visible through the openings of the helmet. "How did you know I was-"

"I've spent enough time with you to pick up on things," he interrupted gently. "Don't worry about it. We won't be there for too long."

She let out a sigh, slipping her arm through his after he adjusted his own helmet. She had been prepared to head straight to the volcanic mountain that morning, but she wasn't sad about the detour. It had given her the opportunity to see another small village, one that she enjoyed very much. But there were no more delays. Runes wrapping around her legs confirmed it. Death Mountain awaited.